Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Well this is very interesting -Fringe Festival '10

Now Magazine is reporting that the Toronto Fringe Festival is joining forces with Mirvish and the Randolph Centre for the 22nd year of the Fringe Festival. This partnership is hoping to establish the Bloor/Bathurst area, and Mirvish village as a hub for the annual festival. "The Randolph Centre, just across the street from the new Fringe Club, will host over 180 performances by 26 companies. The centre, which includes the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, the Bathurst Street Theatre and the Annex Theatre, will also be the site of the Fringe’s central box office... The new plan makes Bathurst Street the spine of the Fringe, with direct access to venues to the north (the two Tarragon spaces) and south (Theatre Passe Muraille and Factory)." Click here to read the full article from Now Magazine

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Kristen Chenoweth coming to Toronto this Thursday

According to The Star actress Kristen Chenowith is coming to Toronto this Thursday to help kick off the Christmas season, by singing carols on Bloor St at Holt Renfrew. Check out the info from The Star below or click here to see the full article. (image courtesy of The Star)



Forget the fact that it's more than seven weeks until Dec. 25: the festive season will hit Toronto this Thursday at 6:30 p.m. when Kristin Chenoweth appears on Bloor St. to sing her way through a half-dozen yuletide tunes, marking the opening of the Holt Renfrew holiday windows.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Now Magazine's Best Emerging Theatre Company Goes To...

Back on Track

As you have probably noticed EAP has been pretty negligent of our duties here lately. It started last February when Justin our most active blogger took an incredible trip to India to study yoga. ( A trip that the whole EAP team is going to repeat this winter, yeah!) And our decline continued when Liza went out west for the summer after a hard year of grant writing rejection and a general lack of confidence that we could get a production off the ground. But we have both been home since September and have failed to really make a concrete plan about our next step. It is not to say that we haven't been following theatre news, and going to local productions and cabaret.

In fact quite the opposite, considering our work schedules and financial limitations we've seen a number of great productions here in Toronto. Goodness, The Boy in the Photograph, The Turning of the Screw, as well as a host of cabaret acts, Scott in the City, Sharron Mathews, Curtain's Down at Statler's and a few others. And we have been genuinely excited about all the theatre news we've been hearing. Factory is having a great season, and we are hoping to get over to see something there. I like what CanStage is doing this season, especially Art, which I am sad I am gonna miss. Plus a bunch of small production companies doing new musicals!

The cast of Jerry Springer was in at Statler's a few weeks back, and were super fun. Alter Boys just finished a Toronto cast run. The new off-Broadway show Toxic Avenger is in town. As well as the exciting double bill of Hedwig and the Angry Inch and Debbie Does Dallas. Both casts have done teasers at Statler's recently. I saw the cast of Debbie last Monday and they were awesome. (Sadly I missed Hedwig last night.) EAP is also really proud of our friends at the Junction Art Collective, an up-and-coming production team who are busy getting their first production Rent off the ground. And we are going to follow their progress with interest.

Therefore it is a bit baffling for us why we haven't gotten back into the blog. We know it is an important tool to stay connected and a great way to disperse theatre news. And the more you use it the more useful it is. But lately we haven't been maximizing its potential. I think one of the reasons is because right now we are focused on individual projects and EAP doesn't have a timeline for any new productions. EAP itself is reevaluating what we want to do and how we'd like to see ourselves in the Toronto theatre community.

Some of you may know, but the reasons for our grant failure last fall were eye opening for us. And were glad to say, they were not related to the material at all. In fact we got lots of good feedback on Wood. But we also learned that we aren't in the position to receive any Federal, Provincial or City money. Which needless to say meant we couldn't produce a show. Mostly because the work and many of our connections aren't local, or even Canadian. But also because we weren't looking to be a profit venture, and hadn't really figured out where the money was going to come from. That is a hard sell for grant subsidies. They want you to balance the books. So we've taken a step back as far as our own projects. But we want to affirm to you, our loyal readers that we are committing until we leave and after we return, to stay on top of theatre news and local goings on. We're in this for the long haul.

And to that end we have been doing some theatre research lately, mostly via twitter, and came across this excellent piece written by Alan M. Berks, about "making it work." His piece was inspiring for me, because it reminded me that everyone in theatre goes through highs and lows, and that you have to just keep at it. If you are really committed to working in theatre, as opposed to television, film, or some other offshoot than you are going to always have to work at it, not just in it. And we would like to leave you, but not for too long, with this lovely quote from his piece about working in theatre as opposed to film or television. Something which is very poignant for us here at EAP.

...I’d sleep better if I accepted that scenario, but I don’t. In reality, I believe that television and movies, even the good ones, are analogous to nationwide chain restaurants. They can be good— though often they aren’t— but the experience they provide is very different than the experience a nice local restaurant provides.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Debbie Does Dallas

The Toronto theatre scene is heating up again. Thank goodness. It has taken years for the theatre economy in this town to turn around. But lately there have been lots of shows in town, and even better lots of them are good, and still better, a lot of them are new! One show that has recently caught EAP's attention is Debbie Does Dallas which is running until Nov. 8th at the Theatre Centre on Queen st. w. Last night we were out at Statler's and got to hear some of the cast perform a few of the numbers and they were awesome. The music is super catchy and the ladies are nice to look at. I wouldn't miss this show if I were you. Plus the run is also a double bill featuring Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Amazing two awesome shows in one evening. Click here for ticket and general info.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Daniel Craig and Hugh Jackman in "Can you get that"

Daniel Craig and Hugh Jackman are currently staring in A Steady Rain, on Broadway. And this lucky, albeit disrespectful, theatre goer caught an ad lib mother load the other night. Jackman visibly loses focus when a cell phone begins to buzz loudly, and requests that the theatre patron please answer the phone. Unfortunately our rude theatre-goer does not respond to Jackman's request and the phone continues to buzz. Eventually the vibrating becomes so distracting that even Daniel Craig gets in on the act and we have a truly live theatre moment. Check it out.



I think videos like this bring up an interesting question for theatre followers. Are these videos, which themselves are very disrespectful of the actors and production team, worth posting? On the one hand to see an audience member berated for their inappropriate behaviour is highly entertaining, and actually informative. Because truthfully cell phones and proper phone etiquette have been around long enough for incidents like this to not occur. But, on the other, the act of watching pirated theatre videos only perpetuates unseemly audience behaviour. And so, while we at EAP will probably continue to post them, because they are news worthy and hilarious - I would say as someone who would NEVER record a professional production in this manner, that doing so offends the production and takes away from the intimate quality theatre affords. Every experience in the theatre is unique, including the one above. Is it fair to record that moment? Theatre in its nature is for the individuals present and them alone. By bootlegging live theatre you not only water down the experience, because let's face theatre on film is yucky usually, you rob the audience, actors and crew of what's theres' in a profoundly deceitful way. That's just my opinion. What's yours?

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

OMG this is an awesome article. MUST READ

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/09/theater/09theater.html?_r=1&hp

Monday, August 10, 2009

Bitch Salad is back tomorrow!!!



Our favorite night of comedy is returning with Bitch Salad!
Here's the always amusing press release:

Life's a beach! Slather on the sunscreen, because BITCH SALAD is BACK! Fresh off the heels of the most epic night of comedy the world was ever blessed with-AKA-our June charity gala "Bitch Salad Gives Back", we're back with a sizzling comedy spectacular that will surely boost the temperature well above the median 18 degrees celsius that it's been so far (for real - what is up with this weather?!)...
And how are we going to do that? With an absolutely SCORCHING lineup including:
Perennial Salad fave SARA HENNESSEY!!!
Legendary lady of laughter LAURIE ELLIOT!!!
The lonnng overdue return of jolly jokemeister JILLIAN THOMAS!!!
The even lonnnger overdue premiere appearance by kooky karacter komedian KATHLEEN PHILLIPS!!!
and the welcome return of superstar/super-fox TREVOR BORIS!!!
And as per usually, featuring news corres-PUN-dant HEIDI BRANDER (I hear she's got a new theme song...) and limey character comedienne KIRSTEN GALLAGHER!!!

And as per always, it's hosted by newly minted Canadian Comedy Award nominee (that's right, bitches) ANDREW JOHNSTON!!!

WHEN - Tuesday, August 11th. I've already checked, and you're not doing anything. So come!WHERE - The downright chillingly air-conditioned confines of Buddies In Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander St... betwixt College & Wellesley on Yonge)
WHAT TIME - Doors at 8, Show at 8:30. Get there early, lest ye stand.
HOW MUCH - 10 dollars that you'd waste on seeing "Bruno". Tickets available in person at the door.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Sharron Matthews!!!


Tomorrow is your last chance to see Sharron Matthews live at Statler's Piano Lounge. In the show called 'Sharron Matthews: Back to Basics' Sharron goes back to her roots, in an intimate room, with an intimate feel.

We here at EAP really love Sharron and think she is such a refreshing powerhouse theatre personality in the city. Go see her show on Wednesday night!


Details:
Statlers on Church
487 Church Street
Phone 416-962-1209
You can reserve your tickets at statlersonchurch.com.
It starts at 8:30pm in the Upstairs Cabaret room... a gem of a room.
The cover is $12.00

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Last Days of Best of Fringe!

Now is your last chance to check out the Best of Fringe at the Berkerley Street Theatre...

Playing still is:

As You Puppet
Morro and Jasp
A Singularity of Being
Head First

Head to http://fringetoronto.com/fringe09/bestoffringe.html to get the details!!!

Friday, July 17, 2009

Opening this week in the city!

African Women Are As Strong As The Baobab Tree (Baobab Youth Theatre Group). A woman survives an abusive relationship and struggles to support her family. Jul 24 at 8 pm. $25. Glenn Gould Studio, 250 Front W. 416-253-4799, baobabtheatregroup.com.

As Bees In Honey Drown by Douglas Carter Beane (Rep 21 Contemporary Theatre). A diva tries to transform an earnest novelist into a glitzy screenwriter for her biopic. Jul 23-25, Thu 8 pm, Sat 2 pm. $15. Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson. 416-504-7529, rep21.ca.

Bare: A New Musical by Jon Hartmere and Damon Intrabartolo (WatersEdge Productions). Teenage boys at a Catholic boarding school deal with a secret romance and facing the future. Opens Jul 17 and runs to Aug 1, Wed-Sat 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $35, stu/srs $25. Hart House Theatre, 7 Hart House Circle. 416-978-8849, watersedgeproductions.net.

Benefits Without Borders (Burners Without Borders). This fundraiser variety show features burlesque, belly dance, comedy games and more. Jul 18 at 9 pm. $10. Bread & Circus, 299 Augusta. benefitwithoutborders.com.

Best Of The Best (Famous People Players). The blacklight theatre company performs old favourites and new material as part of its final week at its current location. Jul 22 fundraiser features show and live music. Opens Jul 21 and runs to Jul 25, Tue-Sat 6 pm. $35-$54.50. Famous People Players, 110 Sudbury. 416-532-1137, fpp.org.

The Best Of The Fringe (Fringe Toronto/CanStage). Encore performances of Hipcheck – The Musical, My Mother's Lesbian Jewish-Wiccan Wedding, Politically Correct Bedtime Stories, Head First, As You Puppet, Morro And Jasp Do Puberty and A Singularity Of Being. Opens Jul 15 and runs to Jul 25, nightly at 7 and 9 pm, see website for exact schedule. $16.50. Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley. 416-368-3110, fringetoronto.com.

Between Sea & Sky by David Anderson and Krista Dalby (Clay & Paper Theatre). Puppets and live actors take a nautical journey in this outdoor presentation. Opens Jul 10 and runs to Aug 9, Wed-Sun 7 pm, mat Sat-Sun 2:30 pm. Pwyc ($10 sugg). Dufferin Grove Park, Dufferin S of Bloor. clayandpapertheatre.org.

Farther West by John Murrell (Rep 21 Contemporary Theatre). A brothel madam seeks independence from male control in 1800s western Canada. Opens Jul 21 and runs to Jul 24, Fri and Tue 8 pm. $15. Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson. 416-504-7529, rep21.ca.

The Foursome by Norm Foster (Flower City Theatre Festival). College buddies reunite after 15 years for a round of golf. Jul 15-19, Wed-Sat 7:30 pm, mats Thu and Sat-Sun 2 pm. $25-$35. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Lane. 905-874-2800, rosetheatre.ca.

Half Life by John Mighton (Flower City Theatre Festival). Two nursing home residents fall in love in this drama. Opens Jul 18 and runs to Aug 1, Wed-Sat 7:30 pm, mats Sat-Sun 2 pm. $25. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Lane. 905-874-2800, rosetheatre.ca.

The Harder They Come by Perry Henzell (Theatre Royal Stratford East/UK Arts/Mirvish). A country boy enters the reggae music scene of Kingston, Jamaica, and becomes an outlaw. Previews Jul 21-22. Opens Jul 23 and runs to Aug 23, Tue-Sat 8 pm, mats Sat-Sun and Wed 2 pm. $20-$99. Canon Theatre, 244 Victoria. 416-872-1212, mirvish.com.

High School Musical 2: On Stage (Jonathan Randall Productions). The stage version of the Disney Channel movie is performed. Opens Jul 15 and runs to Jul 25, Sat-Sun and Wed 7:30 pm, mats Wed-Thu and Sat-Sun 1:30 pm. $22. Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge. 416-872-1111.

Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad by Michael Melski (Blyth Festival). Two single parents meet at their sons' hockey game. Previews Jul 22-23. Opens Jul 24 and runs in rep to Sep 5. $25-$28, previews $20, youth $15 . Blyth Memorial Community Hall, 431 Queen. 1-877-862-5984, blythfestival.com.

I Ought To Be In Pictures by Neil Simon (Globus Theatre Inc.). A has-been Hollywood scriptwriter meets his long-lost daughter, who wants to be a star. Opens Jul 15 and runs to Jul 25, Tue-Sat 8 pm (see website for mats). $26.50, stu $20. Lakeview Arts Barn. 1-800-304-7897, lakeviewartsbarn.com.

The Lieutenant Of Inishmore by Martin McDonagh (Rep 21 Contemporary Theatre). An Irish thug seeks revenge for the murder of his cat. Opens Jul 22 and runs to Jul 25, Sat and Wed 8 pm. $15. Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson. 416-504-7529, rep21.ca.

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupéry (Resurgence Theatre Company). The classic tale for all ages is presented outdoors. Opens Jul 14 and runs to Aug 23, see website for days and times. $27, stu/srs $22. Fairy Lake Park, 500 Water. resurgence.ca.

Romeo And Juliet by William Shakespeare (Hart House Theatre/Canopy Theatre). The classic tragedy is staged outdoors. Opens Jul 15 and runs to Aug 1, Wed-Sat 8 pm. $10, stu/srs $8, Wed pwyc. Philosopher's Walk, 80 Queen's Park. 416-978-8849, canopytheatre.ca.

Sharron Matthews: Back To Basics (Statler’s). The cabaret artist performs new and old material. Opens Jul 8 and runs to Jul 29, Wed 8:30 pm. $12. 487 Church. 416-962-1209, statlersonchurch.com.


Top Girls by Caryl Churchill (Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts). A career woman interacts with notorious women from history at a dinner party. Opens Jul 21 and runs to Jul 25, Tue-Sat 8 pm. $22. Annex Theatre, 730 Bathurst. 416-872-1111, randolphacademy.com.

Toronto Burlesque Festival: Tassels Without Borders (Toronto Burlesque Festival). The 2009 festival features Michelle L'amour, Kitten DeVille, the Wet Spots, Skin Tight Outta Sight, Miss Mitzy Cream, Dr Sketchy's Anti-Art Show and more. Jul 23-26, see website for venues and schedule. $20-$35, weekend pass $100. torontoburlesquefestival.com.

Ways Of The Heart by Noel Coward (Shaw Festival). The Astonished Heart, Family Album and Ways And Means are performed as part of the Tonight At 8:30 cycle of one-act plays. Previews Jul 21-31. Opens Aug 1 and runs in rep to Oct 11. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Court House Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Courtesy of nowtoronto.com

Saturday, July 11, 2009

FRINGE UPDATE!

First off, I would just like to begin with an expression of love to Sara Hennessey who provided a much needed hour of compulsive laughter (and sweating) at her one woman variety show - 'Sara Hennessey Town'. The girl knows what she is good at and explores even more dimensions of her self through various skits that I personally thought all worked.

Also, 'Hipcheck' was a mix of successes and mild failures. The cast works hard in this production and the monolgue by Josee Young is really strong. However, the music is slightly uneven and a little repetative.

A total success at the festival has been 'My Mother's Lesbian Jewish-Wiccan Wedding'. A great cast delivers a really funny and touching score. We would highly recommend this musical at the festival this year!

Shadows in Bloom, 36 Little Plays About Hopeless Girls, and Wanderlust are the three other shows we are suggesting you see, along with Sara and My Mother..., this final weekend of the 2009 FRINGE Festival!


Saturday, July 4, 2009

New musical at Fringe!

As most of our readers know - EAP is dedicated to the development of new musicals. At this year's FRINGE festival we have a new musical that is making audiences stand up and cheer. News like this that trickles through the community is always a good sign. It not only signals that we have a possible hit on our hands, but encourages us to believe we have a 'strong' musical production on our hands, for the show seems to be truly connecting with its audience.

An ensemble cast, including the delightful Shannon Taylor, heads up the musical about an all female hockey team!!! EAP will be checking out the musical in the coming days and will post a mini review, however, right now we know the audiences and critics around the city are both enjoying the show - so this is a hot pick of ours at this year's Toronto Fringe Festival!

Here are the details:

HIPCHECK - THE MUSICAL

Book by Shelley M. Hobbs, Music by Rob Torr, Lyrics by Shelley M. Hobbs and Rob Torr(http://www.hipcheck-themusical.com/) presented by Torrent Productions from Toronto, ON

"The Banshees are a women’s rec hockey team on the brink of a championship, but can they overcome having no stars, a distracted coach, and a battle of wills on and off the ice?"

Audience: General AudienceWarning: Content, Language75 min.

Venue 2: Robert Gill Theatre: Sun, July 5 8:15 PM - Mon, July 6 6:45 PM - Tues, July 7 1:15 PM - Fri, July 10 11:00 PM - Sun, July 12 5:15 PM

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

FRINGE FESTIVAL TORONTO







HAPPY BIRTHDAY CANADA!

Canada is another year older and we all know what that means... another year of the best theatre festival in the country!


The Toronto Fringe Festival begins today!!!

Please go to http://www.fringetoronto.com/index.htm for all the details on shows, tickets and individual show times. As we see shows we will be posting little reviews and recommendations.

First suggestion: go and see SARA HENNESSEY. We aren't even friends and we are plugging her, however, the girl makes us laugh and her exuberant stage presence is infectious and exactly what the doctor ordered. Enjoy!

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Opening this week in the city

Bent by Martin Sherman (Theatre Engine). This drama deals with self-acceptance and the Nazi persecution of homosexuals. Jun 26-30, Fri-Tue 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $15, stu $12. Abrams Studio Theatre, 46 Gerrard E.

Fringe Toronto Theatre Festival (Fringe Toronto). The annual festival offers more than 150 shows featuring plays, dance, comedy and multimedia performances by companies from around the world. Opens Jul 1 and runs to Jul 12, various venues, dates and times, see website for details. $10, passes $40-$90. 416-966-1062, fringetoronto.com.


Glorious! by Peter Quilter (Globus Theatre Inc.). This play is based on the true story of singer Florence Foster Jenkins. Opens Jul 2 and runs to Jul 11, Mon-Sat 8 pm, mats Thu (and July 4) 2 pm. $26.50, stu $20. Lakeview Arts Barn. 1-800-304-7897, lakeviewartsbarn.com.

High Rise Launch Party (Expect Theatre). The company kicks off its three-year project to create a multidisciplinary, multicultural production. Jun 30 from 5 to 7 pm. Free. Albion Library, 1515 Albion. highriseshow.com.

Of The Fields, Lately by David French (Soulpepper). A young man returns home for a funeral and faces lingering family issues. Previews Jun 25-29. Opens Jun 30 and runs to Jul 30, Mon-Sat 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $36-$68, stu $28, rush $20 (stu $5). Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 55 Mill. 416-866-8666, soulpepper.ca.

The Right Road To Pontypool by Alex Poch-Goldin (4th Line Theatre). The town of Pontypool becomes a summer getaway for Toronto's Jews in the 1900s. Previews Jun 30-Jul 1. Opens Jul 2 and runs to Aug 1, Tue-Sat 6 pm (and July 27 at 7 pm). $26-$35, stu/srs $23, previews $20, child $15. Winslow Farm, 4th Line and Country Rd 10. 1-800-814-0055, 4thlinetheatre.on.ca.

Star Chamber by Noel Coward (Shaw Festival). A group of actors argue over the renovation of a retirement home in this lunchtime one-act comedy. Previews Jun 25-Jul 10. Opens Jul 11 and runs in rep to Oct 11. $30. Royal George Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.


Tales From The Queen Mary 2 (Statler’s). Vincent Wolfe performs a musical revue about being a big-band singer on an ocean liner. Jul 3 at 8 pm. $12. 487 Church. 416-962-1209, statlersonchurch.com.

The Tempest by William Shakespeare (Canadian Stage TD Dream in High Park). This year's outdoor production features a gender-bending adaptation of the play on a magical island. Previews Jun 26-29. Opens Jun 30 and runs to Sep 6, Tue-Sun 8 pm. Pwyc ($20 sugg); under 14 free. High Park, Bloor W and Parkside. 416-367-1652, canstage.com.

Tom Jones by David Rogers (Scarborough Players). Jones beds maidens and fights off villains in this adaptation of Henry Fielding's comedy. Opens Jun 25 and runs to Jul 11, Thu-Sat 8 pm, mat Jul 5 at 2 pm. $17, stu/srs $14 (Thu & Sun only), stu rush $10. Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston. 416-396-4049.

Vigil by Morris Panych (Long Eared Plays/Phyzikal Theatre). A man confronts his long-lost aunt on her death bed. Previews Jun 26. Opens Jun 27 and runs to Jul 11, Tue-Sat 7:30 pm, mats Sat and Wed 2 pm. $25, stu/srs/preview $15, Sat mat pwyc. Ward's Island Association Clubhouse, 20 Withrow, Ward's Island. 1-888-222-6608, ticketweb.com.

courtesy of nowtoronto.com

Monday, June 22, 2009

Opening this week in the city

Albertine In Five Times by Michel Tremblay (Shaw Festival). A woman interacts with stages of her future self in 10-year increments. Previews Jun 24-Jul 9. Opens Jul 10 and runs in rep to Oct 10. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Court House Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Artwherk! (ARTWHERK! Collective). This Pride Week party features visual, installation and performance art by Ryan G Hinds, Amai Kuda and others. Jun 24 from 6 to 8 pm. Free. Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas W. artwherk.ca

Bent by Martin Sherman (Theatre Engine). This drama deals with self-acceptance and the Nazi persecution of homosexuals. Jun 26-30, Fri-Tue 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $15, stu $12. Abrams Studio Theatre, 46 Gerrard E.

Cheap Queers (Hardworkin' Homosexuals). Moynan King, Keith Cole, Jonathan da Silva and Sharon DiGenova perform alongside guest hosts. Opens Jun 24 and runs to Jun 26, Wed-Fri 8:30 pm. $6.48. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander. 416-975-8555, artsexy.ca.

Cyrano De Bergerac by Edmond Rostand (Stratford Festival). An eloquent but large-nosed man helps his friend woo a young woman. Previews May 29-Jun 18. Opens Jun 19 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Festival Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca

Dora Mavor Moore Awards (Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts). Jian Ghomeshi hosts the annual theatre awards featuring celebrity presenters and a special performance. Jun 29 at 8 pm. $60, VIP tickets $160 (includes pre-show reception at the Rosewater Supper Club). Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge. 416-872-5555, tapa.ca.

The Emergency Monologues by Morgan Jones Phillips (Drinking Well). Phillips performs his play to raise funds for injured paramedic Kevin Mills. Jun 25 at 8 pm. $20. Centre of Gravity, 1300 Gerrard E.

Ever Yours, Oscar compiled by Peter Wylde (Stratford Festival). This solo show tells Oscar Wilde's life story through his letters. Previews Jun 19. Opens Jun 20 and runs in rep to Aug 29. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Tom Patterson Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Festival Of Ideas And Creation (Canadian Stage Company). This festival features public play readings and rehearsals, talks, backstage tours and more. Opens Jun 8 and runs to Jun 27, see website for dates and times. Free and ticketed events. Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley. canstage.com/festival.

The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams (Red Barn Theatre). A broken family struggles to fulfill their dreams in this memory play. Previews Jun 18. Opens Jun 19 and runs to Jul 4, Wed-Sat 8 pm, mats Wed-Thu 2 pm. $15, opening gala $50. Stephen Leacock Theatre, 130 Gwendolyn. 1-888-733-2276, redbarntheatre.ca.

Guess Who's Coming To Sabbath by Phil Pivnick (Miles Nadal JCC). Pivnick's play about a Jewish man coming out to his parents gets a staged reading. Jun 25 at 7:30 pm. $8, stu $5. Al Green Theatre, 750 Spadina. 416-924-6211 ext 606.

Hey Marilyn by Cliff Jones (Capricorn 9 Productions). This pop/rock opera tells the life story of Marilyn Monroe. Opens Jun 18 and runs to Jun 26, Wed-Sat 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $30-$40, stu/srs $20. Jane Mallett Theatre, 27 Front E. 416-366-7723, stlc.com.

High Rise Launch Party (Expect Theatre). The company kicks off its three-year project to create a multidisciplinary, multicultural production. Jun 30 from 5 to 7 pm. Free. Albion Library, 1515 Albion. highriseshow.com.

The Maids by Jean Genet (Whirligig Productions). Servant sisters engage in a secret revenge act when their mistress is away. Opens Jun 23 and runs to Jun 27, Tue-Sat 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $25, mat pwyc. Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson. 416-504-7529, artsboxoffice.ca.

Queens & Dolls Rainbow Extravaganza! (Harlettes). The burlesque troupe perform with drag queens and DJs. Jun 25 at 9 pm. $15. Stone Lounge, 783 College. 647-444-2662, harlettes.com.

Sing For Your Supper 2.6 (Cold Reading Series). New scripts get a reading at this monthly series. Jun 22 at 9:30 pm. Free. Temperance Gallery, 2 Temperance, 2nd floor.

Star Chamber by Noel Coward (Shaw Festival). A group of actors argue over the renovation of a retirement home in this lunchtime one-act comedy. Previews Jun 25-Jul 10. Opens Jul 11 and runs in rep to Oct 11. $30. Royal George Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Courtesy of nowtoronto.com

Friday, June 12, 2009

Opening this week in the city!

Awake And Sing! by Clifford Odets (Soulpepper Theatre Company). This dramatic comedy looks at three generations of a Jewish family living in Depression-era New York. Previews Jun 6-15. Opens Jun 16 and runs to Jul 31, see website for dates and times. $28-$68. Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 55 Mill. 416-866-8666, soulpepper.ca.

Bartholomew Fair by Ben Jonson (Stratford Festival). Social and religious clashes occur at a summer fair in 17th-century London in this satiric comedy. Previews May 27-Jun 2. Opens Jun 4 and runs in rep to Oct 2. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Tom Patterson Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Body & Soul by Judith Thompson (Thompson and Fine). Twelve women between the ages of 46 and 79 tell their life stories. Previews Jun 4-5. Opens Jun 6 and runs to Jun 21, Tue-Sat 8 pm, Sun 2:30 pm. $35, stu/srs discounts available. Tarragon Theatre, 30 Bridgman. 416-531-1827.

The Burning Bush! by Tracey Erin Smith (Burning Bush Productions). Smith performs her solo comedy about a stripping female rabbi. Previews Jun 17 at 2 and 8 pm. Opens Jun 18 and runs to Jun 27, Wed-Sat 8 pm, mat Wed 2 pm. $30-$35, stu/srs/preview $20. Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 55 Mill. 416-966-1062, theburningbush.ca.

Continuous City (The Builders Association). This performance blends live actors with video and Web content to explore how technology affects our connection to others. Jun 11-13 at 7:30 pm. $35-$45. Isabel Bader Theatre, 93 Charles W. 416-872-1111, luminato.com.

Cooking Fire Theatre Festival (Cooking Fire). The outdoor celebration of theatre, food and public space returns with works by Solo Chicken & BoucharDanse, Urban Spine, Zuppa Theatre and others. Opens Jun 17 and runs to Jun 21, Wed-Sun 7 pm (dinner served from 6 pm). Pwyc ($10 sugg). Dufferin Grove Park, Dufferin S of Bloor. 416-655-4841, cookingfire.ca.

Così Fan Tutte by WA Mozart (Canadian Opera Company). The COC's Ensemble Studio perform Mozart's comic opera in Italian. Opens Jun 15 and runs to Jun 21, Fri, Mon and Wed 7:30 pm, Sun 2 pm. $75. Joey and Toby Tanenbaum Opera Centre, 227 Front E. 416-363-8231, coc.ca.

Cyrano De Bergerac by Edmond Rostand (Stratford Festival). An eloquent but large-nosed man helps his friend woo a young woman. Previews May 29-Jun 18. Opens Jun 19 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Festival Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Day Of Delight (Clay & Paper Theatre). The company presents dance, theatre, a giant puppet parade, the launch of Cyclops: Cycling Oriented Puppet Squad and more. Jun 14 from 2 to 5 pm. Pwyc ($10 sugg). Dufferin Grove Park, Dufferin S of Bloor. clayandpapertheatre.org.

Deathwatch by Jean Genet (Ten Foot Pole Productions/lemonTree theatre creations). This drama looks at chauvinism and homoeroticism in the lives of three prisoners and a guard. Opens Jun 17 and runs to Jun 20, Wed-Sat 8 pm, mat Sat 2 pm. $15. Xpace, 58 Ossington (basement). deathwatchtoronto.wordpress.com.

The Devil's Disciple by Bernard Shaw (Shaw Festival). A surprising sacrifice turns an outcast into a hero during the American Revolution. Previews Jun 14-Jul 8. Opens Jul 9 and runs in rep to Oct 11. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Festival Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Drag Ball 2009 (Miss Canada World Pageant). Drag performances by Miss Canada World Kenya Black Dupree, lady X and others. Jun 14 at 7 pm. $30. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander. 416-323-0772.

Ever Yours, Oscar compiled by Peter Wylde (Stratford Festival). This solo show tells Oscar Wilde's life story through his letters. Previews Jun 19. Opens Jun 20 and runs in rep to Aug 29. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Tom Patterson Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Fantastic Glamtastic (Glamourpuss Burlesque). Good fights evil in this comic-book inspired burlesque show. Jun 12 at 9 pm. $12. Goodhandy’s, 120 Church. glamourpussburlesque.com.

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum by Burt Shevelove, Larry Gelbart and Stephen Sondheim (Stratford Festival). A sly Roman slave plots to win his freedom in this musical comedy. Previews Jun 11-18. Opens Jun 20 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $39-$111, stu/srs $25-$79. Avon Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Loot by Joe Orton (Soulpepper Theatre Company). Thieves stash stolen money in a coffin and scramble to hide the corpse in this parody of detective fiction. Previews Jun 5-17. Opens Jun 18 and runs to Aug 1, see website for dates and times. $28-$68. Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 55 Mill. 416-866-8666, soulpepper.ca.

Luminato Closing Weekend Celebrations (Luminato). The festival closes with a variety of multi-arts performances and a special creation by Cirque du Soleil. Jun 12-14, Fri evening, Sat-Sun all day. Free. Toronto Waterfront, from Harbourfront Centre to Toronto's Music Garden. luminato.com.

Music And Poetry Salon (AnitAFRIKA! Dub Theatre). This benefit for Diana Tso's play Red Snow features performances by Daughters of the Rock, Sheng Xue, Yaya Yao and others. Jun 15 at 7 pm. $20. 62 Fraser. 416-434-1823.

The Musical Of Musicals by Joanne Bogart and Eric Rockwell (Gypsy Theatre). This production features five mini-musicals about trouble paying the rent. Opens Jun 11 and runs to Jul 12, call/see website for schedule. $40. 877-990-7529, gypsytheatre.com.

Nautical Nonsense (The Harlettes). The troupe performs a vaudevillian burlesque show. Jun 13-14 at 8 pm. $12-$15. Bread & Circus, 299 Augusta. harlettes.com.

Nevermore (Catalyst Theatre). This musical gothic fairy tale for adults is based on the works of Edgar Allan Poe. Jun 11-13 at 7:30 pm, mat Sat 2:30 pm. $40-$50. Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge. 416-872-1111, luminato.com.

Nice Jewish Girls Gone Bad by Susannah Perlman (Rivoli). This vaudeville style show mixes comedy, music, spoken word and burlesque. Jun 11-12 at 8 pm. $15-$20. 332 Queen W. 416-597-0974, nicejewishgirlsgonebad.com.

The Nightwood by Robin Muller (Back Burner Productions). Mask, puppetry and theatre are used in this all-ages show. Jun 12 at 7 pm. Free. Lillian H Smith Library, 239 College. luminato.com.

Play, Orchestra, Play by Noel Coward (Shaw Festival). Red Peppers, Fumed Oak and Shadow Play are performed as part of the Tonight At 8:30 cycle of one-act plays. Previews Jun 9-Jul 9. Opens Jul 11 and runs in rep to Oct 11. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Royal George Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Scorched by Wajdi Mouawad (Tarragon Theatre). Mouawad's drama about family secrets revealed following a mother's death is remounted. Previews Jun 9-10. Opens Jun 11 and runs to Jun 27, Tue-Sat 8 pm, mats Sat-Sun 2:30 pm. $35-$45, stu/srs $30-$35, previews $20, Fri rush $15. 30 Bridgman. 416-531-1827, tarragontheatre.com.

Sound In Silence (Out of the Box Productions). This multimedia work combines music, video and performance as a deaf dancer strives to cope with a silent world. Previews Jun 17 at 7:30 pm. Opens Jun 18 and runs to Jun 21, Thu-Sat 7:30 and 9 pm, Sun 1:30 and 3 pm. $25, stu/srs $20, preview pwyc. Theatre Centre, 1087 Queen W. 888-222-6608, outoftheboxproductions.ca.

Wake by Gender Play (Central Toronto Youth Services). The LGBTTIQ youth arts group performs a collective creation set on the high seas. Jun 12-14, Fri-Sat 8 pm, Sun 2 pm. Pwyc. Palmerston Library, 560 Palmerston. ctys.org.

Waterworks by Kate Hennig (Chameleon's Dish). Hennig's work-in-progress gets a reading. Jun 15 at 7:30 pm. Pwyc. Ernest Balmer Studio, 55 Mill, Cannery bldg, studio 315. 416-537-6066.

Wingfield's Inferno by Dan Needles (Theatre Collingwood). Bickering and red tape stall efforts to rebuild a town hall in this solo comedy. Opens Jun 15 and runs to Jun 20, Mon-Sat 8 pm, mats Tue and Thu 2 pm. $30, stu $15. Gayety Theatre. 866-382-2200, theatrecollingwood.ca.

Monday, June 8, 2009

TONY AWARDS!

And the winners are:

BEST MUSICAL
* Billy Elliot
Next to Normal
Rock of Ages
Shrek the Musical

BEST PLAY
33 Variations
Dividing the Estate
* God of Carnage
reasons to be

BEST REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL
Guys and Dolls
* Hair
Pal Joey
West Side Story

BEST REVIVAL OF A PLAY
Joe Turner's Come and Gone
Mary Stuart
* The Norman Conquests
Waiting for Godot

BEST BOOK OF A MUSICAL
* Lee Hall, Billy Elliot
Brian Yorkey, Next to Normal
David Lindsay-Abaire, Shrek the Musical
Hunter Bell, [title of show]

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE (MUSIC AND/OR LYRICS) WRITTEN FOR THE THEATER
Billy ElliotMusic: Elton John, Lyrics: Lee Hall
* Next to NormalMusic: Tom Kitt, Lyrics: Brian Yorkey
9 to 5Music and lyrics: Dolly Parton
Shrek the MusicalMusic: Jeanine Tesori, Lyrics: David Lindsay-Abaire

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A LEADING ACTOR IN A PLAY
Jeff Daniels, God of Carnage
Raúl Esparza, Speed-the-Plow
James Gandolfini, God of Carnage
* Geoffrey Rush, Exit the King
Thomas Sadoski, reasons to be pretty

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A LEADING ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Hope Davis, God of Carnage
Jane Fonda, 33 Variations
* Marcia Gay Harden, God of Carnage
Janet McTeer, Mary Stuart
Harriet Walter, Mary Stuart

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A LEADING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
* David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik, and Kiril Kulish, Billy Elliot
Gavin Creel, Hair
Brian d’Arcy James, Shrek the Musical
Constantine Maroulis, Rock of Ages
J. Robert Spencer, Next to Normal

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A LEADING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Stockard Channing, Pal Joey
Sutton Foster, Shrek the Musical
Allison Janney, 9 to 5
* Alice Ripley, Next to Normal
Josefina Scaglione, West Side Story

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEATURED ACTOR IN A PLAY
John Glover, Waiting for Godot
Zach Grenier, 33 Variations
Stephen Mangan, The Norman Conquests
Paul Ritter, The Norman Conquests
* Roger Robinson, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEATURED ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Hallie Foote, Dividing the Estate
Jessica Hynes, The Norman Conquests
Marin Ireland, reasons to be pretty
* Angela Lansbury, Blithe Spirit
Amanda Root, The Norman Conquests

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEATURED ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
David Bologna, Billy Elliot
* Gregory Jbara, Billy Elliot
Marc Kudisch, 9 to 5
Christopher Sieber, Shrek the Musical
Will Swenson, Hair

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEATURED ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Jennifer Damiano, Next to Normal
Haydn Gwynne, Billy Elliot
* Karen Olivo, West Side Story
Martha Plimpton, Pal Joey
Carole Shelley, Billy Elliot

BEST DIRECTION OF A PLAY
Phyllida Lloyd, Mary Stuart
Bartlett Sher, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone
* Matthew Warchus, God of Carnage
Matthew Warchus, The Norman Conquests

BEST DIRECTION OF A MUSICAL
* Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot
Michael Greif, Next to Normal
Kristin Hanggi, Rock of Ages
Diane Paulus, Hair

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Karole Armitage, Hair
Andy Blankenbuehler, 9 to 5
* Peter Darling, Billy Elliot
Randy Skinner, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

BEST ORCHESTRATIONS (Tie)
Larry Blank, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas
* Martin Koch, Billy Elliot
* Michael Starobin and Tom Kitt, Next to Normal
Danny Troob and John Clancy, Shrek the Musical

BEST SCENIC DESIGN OF A PLAY
Dale Ferguson, Exit the King
Rob Howell, The Norman Conquests
* Derek McLane, 33 Variations
Michael Yeargan, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone

BEST SCENIC DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Robert Brill, Guys and Dolls
* Ian MacNeil, Billy Elliot
Scott Pask, Pal Joey
Mark Wendland, Next to Normal

BEST COSTUME DESIGN OF A PLAY
Dale Ferguson, Exit the King
Jane Greenwood, Waiting for Godot
Martin Pakledinaz, Blithe Spirit
* Anthony Ward, Mary Stuart

BEST COSTUME DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Gregory Gale, Rock of Ages
Nicky Gillibrand, Billy Elliot
* Tim Hatley, Shrek the Musical
Michael McDonald, Hair

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN OF A PLAY
David Hersey, Equus
David Lander, 33 Variations
* Brian MacDevitt, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone
Hugh Vanstone, Mary Stuart

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Kevin Adams, Hair
Kevin Adams, Next to Normal
Howell Binkley, West Side Story
* Rick Fisher, Billy Elliot

BEST SOUND DESIGN OF A PLAY
Paul Arditti, Mary Stuart
* Gregory Clarke, Equus
Russell Goldsmith, Exit the King
Scott Lehrer and Leon Rothenberg, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone

BEST SOUND DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Acme Sound Partners, Hair
* Paul Arditti, Billy Elliot
Peter Hylenski, Rock of Ages
Brian Ronan, Next to Normal

SPECIAL THEATRICAL EVENT
* Liza's at the Palace . . .
Slava's Snowshow
Soul of Shaolin
You're Welcome America. A Final Night With George W Bush

SPECIAL TONY AWARD FOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT IN THE THEATER
Jerry Herman

REGIONAL THEATER TONY AWARD
Signature Theater (Arlington, Va.)

ISABELLE STEVENSON AWARD
Phyllis Newman

SPECIAL TONY AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE THEATER
Shirley Herz

Courtesy of nytimes.com, links to nytimes.com.

Friday, May 29, 2009

Opening this week in the city

Here are the theatre listings for this upcoming week in Toronto. We apologize for the lack of posts recently - Liza and I's intense travel schedules over the past month have made it increasingly difficult to find our way onto here. However, expect much more activity in the month to follow. 

THE AUDRE LORDE WORKSHOP (AnitAFRIKA! Dub Theatre). This festival is dedicated to the black queer poet and features readings by resident artists and guests. May 29-30, doors 6:30 pm. $10 sliding scale. 62 Fraser. 416-434-1823, anitafrika.com. 
BARTHOLOMEW FAIR by Ben Jonson (Stratford Festival). Social and religious clashes occur at a summer fair in 17th-century London in this satiric comedy. Previews May 27-Jun 2. Opens Jun 4 and runs in rep to Oct 2. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Tom Patterson Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca. 
THE BEAUTIFUL AND THE DAMNED (Les Coquettes Nouveau Burlesque). This cabaret looks at the seven deadly sins through song, dance, strip-tease and comedy. May 31 at 8 pm. $20. Revival, 783 College. lescoquettes.com. 
BODAS DE SANGRE/BLOOD WEDDING by Federico García Lorca (Crisalida Proyecto Cultural). Lorca's tragedy is performed in Spanish with English translation and features live flamenco music and dance. Opens May 29 and runs to Jun 21, Fri-Sat 7:30 pm, mats Sat 4:30 pm, Sun 3:30 pm. $15. Palmerston Library, 560 Palmerston. 416-890-3271, crisalida.ca.
CANCER CAN'T DANCE LIKE THIS by Daniel Stolfi (pivotal(arts) theatre company). Stolfi performs his solo show about his battle with the disease. May 29 at 11 pm. $15. Second City, 51 Mercer. 416-343-0011, pivotalarts.ca. 
A CLASS ACT by Edward Kleban, Linda Kline and Lonny Price (Civic Light Opera Company). This musical is based on the life of Kleban, lyricist of A Chorus Line. Opens May 27 and runs to Jun 14, Wed 7 pm, Thu-Sat 8 pm, mats Sun (and Jun 13) 2 pm. $20-$27.50. Fairview Library Theatre, 35 Fairview Mall. 416-755-1717, civiclightoperacompany.com. 
CYRANO DE BERGERAC by Edmond Rostand (Stratford Festival). An eloquent but large-nosed man helps his friend woo a young woman. Previews May 29-Jun 18. Opens Jun 19 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Festival Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca. 
DISHOOM (DiaspoRadicals). This South Asian performance festival features play readings, stand-up, music and more by Anita Majumdar, Ali Rizvi, LAL and others. Opens May 24 and runs to May 31, see website for specific schedule. Pwyc-$15, passes $20-$40. Factory Theatre, 125 Bathurst. 416-504-9971, dishoom.ca. 

GENET'S DIVAS AND DELINQUENTS (Goodhandy’s). This benefit for upcoming productions of plays by Jean Genet includes comedy, dance, burlesque and more. May 31 at 8 pm. $10. 120 Church. 416-833-9199. 
HORUS THE GOD by Alexander Winfield (PS Kensington). The retired Egyptian god attempts to defeat his boredom in this surreal play. May 31 at 6 pm. Pwyc. Kensington Market, SW Corner of Augusta and Oxford. 416-262-2945. 
LIPSYNCH (Ex Machina/Théâtre Sans Frontières). This nine-hour multimedia epic weaves together stories of nine interconnected lives over 70 years. Opens Jun 6 and runs to Jun 14, Sat-Sun 1 pm (nine hours w/ four intermissions), Tue-Thu 7 pm (three parts across three nights). $75-$125. Bluma Appel Theatre, 27 Front E. 416-872-1111, luminato.com.
MACBETH by William Shakespeare (Stratford Festival). Colm Feore plays Macbeth in Shakespeare's classic tragedy. Previews May 22-30. Opens Jun 1 and runs in rep to Oct 31. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Festival Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca. 
MY DARLING JUDITH by Norm Foster (Scarborough Theatre Guild). A man's eccentric wife stands between him and his dream girl in this comedy. Opens May 28 and runs to Jun 13, Thu-Sat 8 pm, mat Jun 7 at 2 pm. $17, stu/srs $14, stu rush $10. Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston. 416-496-4049. 
NEW WAVES FESTIVAL (Young Centre for the Performing Arts). Multidisciplinary works are presented by resident artists including Weyni Mengesha, Andrea Nann, Soheil Parsa and others. Opens Jun 6 and runs to Jun 14, Fri 7 to 10 pm, Sat 2 to 10 pm, Sun 2 to 7 pm. Free. 55 Mill. luminato.com. 
ON STAGE PERFORMING ARTS SERIES (Toronto Public Library). TPL presents conversations with artists. May 14, 7 pm, with choreographer Christopher House. May 22, 7 pm, with actor Sheila McCarthy. May 29, 7 pm, with opera singer Isabel Bayrakdarian. Free.Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge. 416-395-5577
PLAYDATE by Jill Larkin (RobotBlast Productions). This comedy about two mothers involves an encounter at a swimming lesson. May 28-31, Thu-Sat 8 pm, Sun 2 pm. $12, stu/srs $8.Centre for the Arts, 263 Adelaide W, suite 513. 
SPRING CONCERTS (Canadian Children's Opera Company). The OPERAtion KIDS and Intermediate and Youth choruses perform operas based on Hansel And Gretel. May 30 at 4 and 7:30 pm. $25, stu/srs $15, child $5. First Unitarian Congregation, 175 St Clair W. 416-366-0467, canadianchildrensopera.com.
STRUT! (ARTWHERK! Collective). This funder for the queer artists' collective features performances by Donnarama, Boylesque TO, Fat Femme Mafia and others. May 29, doors 9 pm. $7. Goodhandy’s, 120 Church. artwherk.ca. 
SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE by James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim (Shaw Festival). This musical looks at love, art and inspiration in the life of painter Georges Seurat. Previews Apr 1-May 21. Opens May 22 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Royal George Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com. 
THEATRE FOR CHANGE (Vicentinos en Accion). This benefit for youth in El Salvador features two theatre presentations and a video screening. May 30 at 7 pm. $10. Native Canadian Centre, 16 Spadina Rd. 647-839-0636. 

Courtesy of nowtoronto.com

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Opening this week in the city

Here are the theatre listings for the upcoming week in Toronto.

Alibi by Lukasz Wylezalek (Atlas Stage Productions). This crime drama is performed in Polish with simultaneous English translation. May 15-16, Fri-Sat 8 pm (and Sat 6 pm). $28-$32, stu $25, rush $15. Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge. 416-872-1111, atlasstage.com.

The Book Of Judith by Michael Rubenfeld and Sarah Stanley (Theatre Centre/Absit Omen/Die in Debt). This musical looks at changing lives through the story of quadriplegic author Judith Snow. Opens May 19 and runs to May 30, Tue-Sat 8 pm, mats May 23-24 and 30 at 2 pm, May 31 at 11 am. $20. Centre For Addiction And Mental Health, 1001 Queen W. 416-538-0988, theatrecentre.org.

Burlesque A La Carte (Toronto Burlesque Festival). This funder for the festival features Skin Tight Outta Sight, Boylesque T.O., Mysterion, the Harlettes and others. May 14 at 8:30 pm. $18-$25. Revival, 783 College. torontoburlesquefestival.com.

Dragball On Parade (Girly Productions). This funder for the 2009 pageant features host Stephanie Stephens and others. May 14 at 10 pm. $20. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander. 416-323-0772.

Eternal Hydra by Anton Piatigorsky (Crow's Theatre). Controversy surrounds the discovery of a long-lost literary masterpiece. Previews May 17-20. Opens May 21 and runs to May 31, Tue-Sat 8 pm, mats Sat-Sun 2:30 pm. $20-$30, previews/Sat mat $15, Sun pwyc. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander. 416-975-8555, crowstheatre.com.

In Good King Charles's Golden Days by Bernard Shaw (Shaw Festival). Philosophy, art, love and other topics are debated at Sir Isaac Newton's house in this comedy. Previews Apr 17-May 20. Opens May 21 and runs in rep to Oct 9. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Royal George Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

John/Yoko Bed Piece by Risha Yorke (draft89). This installation piece uses performance, film, art and music to look at the 1969 Bed-In for Peace in Montreal. Opens May 20 and runs to Jun 7, Tue-Sun 8 pm, mats Sat-Sun 2:30 pm. $28, stu/srs $25. Theatre Centre, 1087 Queen W. 647-887-3319, draft89.com.

The Marriage Of Anansewa by Efua Sutherland (AfriCan Theatre Ensemble). The spider/man storyteller Ananse decides to auction his daughter in this West African play. Opens May 15 and runs to May 23, Thu-Sat 8 pm, mat May 16 at 2 pm. $25, stu/srs $15. Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley. 416-368-3110, africantheatre.org.

Murder On The Dance Floor (Fairly Lucid Productions). This funder for FLP's Fringe production features a 50s/60s-themed prom party. May 15 at 9 pm. $15. Revival, 783 College. fairlylucid.blogspot.com.

The NTS Directors' Showcase & Exchange (Crow's Theatre/National Theatre School of Canada). This weekend event features a panel discussion plus a performance showcase featuring works by Caryl Churchill, Anita Rochon and others. Some performances at Theatre Passe Muraille (16 Ryerson) and at the lot at 90 Lisgar. May 15-17, see website for days, times and venues. Free. Theatre Centre, 1087 Queen W. crowstheatre.com.

Of All The People In All The World by Stan's Cafe (Harbourfront World Stage). Performers manipulate 15 tonnes of rice to represent populations and statistics in this performance installation. Opens May 13 and runs to May 24, Mon-Fri 10 am to 7 pm, Sat-Sun 11 am to 6 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000, harbourfrontcentre.com.

On Stage Performing Arts Series (Toronto Public Library). TPL presents conversations with artists. May 14, 7 pm, with choreographer Christopher House. May 22, 7 pm, with actor Sheila McCarthy. May 29, 7 pm, with opera singer Isabel Bayrakdarian. Free. Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge. 416-395-5577.

Pleasure Addicts by Brenda Goldstein (FADO Performance Art). This performance installation explores mass media conceptions of femininity. May 16, from 4 pm to midnight. Free. Toronto Free Gallery, 1277 Bloor W. 416-913-0461.

Ricky Jay – A Rogue's Gallery (Bathurst Street Theatre). The sleight-of-hand artist, actor and author appears in an evening of conversation and performance. May 14-16 at 8 pm. $79-$99. 736 Bathurst. 416-870-8000.

Riverdance by Bill Whelan, Moya Doherty and John McColgan (Mirvish). The theatrical celebration of Irish music, song and dance returns on its farewell tour. Opens May 19 and runs to Jun 21, Tue-Sat 8 pm, mats Sat-Sun and Wed 2 pm. $20-$99. Canon Theatre, 244 Victoria. 416-872-1212, mirvish.com.

Ten Green Bottles by Vivian Kaplan (Te-Amim Music Theatre). This drama is based on the true story of a Viennese family's escape from Nazism to China and eventually Canada. Previews May 14-15. Opens May 16 and runs to May 24, call or see website for days and times. $10-$25. Al Green Theatre, Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. 416-924-6211, te-amim.com.

Three Plays By Sam Shepard (Candles Co-op). Killer's Head, 4-H Club and Cowboys#2 are performed in the mansion ballroom. Previews May 20. Opens May 21 and runs to May 31, Wed-Thu and Sun 8 pm, Fri-Sat 7 pm. $15. KA Mansion, 160 St George. 416-535-6520.
Three Sisters by Anton Chekhov (Stratford Festival). Sisters seek to escape their small-town lives and find a meaningful future in Moscow. Previews May 9-30. Opens Jun 3 and runs in rep to Oct 3. $29-$99, stu/srs $25-$79. Tom Patterson Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Tobor The Robot (Toronto Youth Theatre). This family musical tells the story of a robot who longs to become a real boy. Opens May 20 and runs to May 23, Wed-Sat 8 pm. $20, student $15. Lower Ossington Theatre, 100A Ossington. 416-915-6747 ext 221, torontoyouththeatre.org.

Toronto International Circus Festival (Zero Gravity Circus). This all-ages weekend features aerial acrobatics, stunts, cabaret acts, comedy, music, clowns and more, as part of HarbourKIDS: Impact! May 16-18 from 11 am to 5 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000, tocircusfestival.com.
Courtesy of nowtoronto.com

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Buddies new season announced

After a bit of a rough year for the beloved downtown theatre company - Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (two shows were completely cancelled), the new season looks strong. Check out Richard Ouzounian's article in today's Toronto Star below:

"It's going to be a woman's world at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre next season. The Star got an advance copy of today's official announcement, which reveals that all of the Mainstage shows for the 2009-2010 season have female creators; a few male directors are along for the ride.

The season begins with the ever popular Scandelles performing Neon Nightz, written by Sasha Van Bon Bon and Kitty Neptune, with music by Countess Christsmasher. Buddies' departing artistic director, David Oiye, directs.

Nina Arsenault is the creator/performer of The Silicone Diaries, with dramaturgy by Judith Rudakoff and directed by Brendan Healy. It's described as her battle with "the conventions of patriarchy to come to peace with her radical, queer body."

Nathalie Claude brings her creation The Salon Automaton to the schedule next, "a literary salon, a burlesque confrontation, an infernal huis-clos."

Independent Aunties bring their Dora-nominated hit, Breakfast to Buddies, written by Anna Chatteron and Evalyn Parry, starring Karin Randoja, Chatteron and Parry.

And the major festivals that have been so crucial to Buddies will continue: Hysteria, directed by Moynan King, and Rhubarb, directed by Erika Hennebury.

There is no indication as to how much, if any, input Oiye had in this upcoming season or whether its composition reflects a new direction for the organization's leadership." (Richard Ouzounian, May 13th)

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Opening this week in Toronto

Here is the weekly listing of openings in the city for May 7-14.


Anne Of Green Gables – The Musical by Don Harron, Norman Campbell, Elaine Campbell and Mavor Moore (Dancap Productions/Charlottetown Festival). LM Montgomery's novel about the precocious orphan is presented as a musical. Previews May 7-12. Opens May 13 and runs to May 24, Wed-Sat 7:30 pm, mats Sat-Sun and Wed 2 pm (call/see website for other times). $25-$85. Elgin Theatre, 189 Yonge. 416-644-3665, dancaptickets.com.

Antique Fables And Fairy Toys: Britten's A Midsummer Night's Dream (Canadian Opera Company). The COC presents a symposium about its current production as part of the Opera Exchange series. May 9, from 9:30 am to 1 pm. $15, stu $5. Edward Johnson Building, 80 Queen's Park. 416-368-8231, coc.ca.

Born Yesterday by Garson Kanin (Shaw Festival). A corrupt tycoon's scheme to educate his girlfriend backfires in this comedy. Previews May 5-22. Opens May 23 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Festival Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.


The Cleansing Of Constance Brown by Stan's Cafe (Harbourfront World Stage). This fusion of installation and theatre features various scenarios enacted in a corridor. Opens May 5 and runs to May 9, Tue 8 pm, Wed-Fri 6:30 and 9 pm, Sat 2 and 8 pm. $40. Enwave Theatre, 231 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000, harbourfrontcentre.com.

Conversations On The Green (Harold Green Jewish Theatre). Ralph Benmergui talks to actor Hal Linden. May 10 at 7:30 pm. $15. Jane Mallett Theatre, 27 Front E. 416-366-7723.

Coyote City by Daniel David Moses (Centre for Indigenous Theatre). A phone call from a ghost draws an Aboriginal woman into the city. May 8-10, Fri-Sat 8 pm, Sun 2:30 pm. $15 suggested donation. Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse, 79A St. George. 416-506-9436, indigenoustheatre.com.


Dave Curran (Dave And Buster's). The hypnotist performs a family show followed by an adult-themed show. May 9 at 7 pm. $10 plus a food bank donation. 120 Interchange Way. 416-806-1892, davecurranlive.com.


Four Voices, No Walls (OUTwrites). The GLBT writing group presents staged readings of works by Caroline Azar, Don Bapst, Bruce Bell and Sonja Mills. May 9 at 8 pm. By donation. Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. 416-924-6211, outwrites.org.

Godspell by John Michael Tebelak and Stephen Schwartz (Feast of Fools Theatre). This family musical is based on the gospel of St Matthew. May 8-10, Fri-Sat 8 pm, Sun 2 pm. $24, stu/srs $18. The Assembly Hall, 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park. 416-231-3131, feastoffoolstheatre.com.

Growing Peace (Children's Peace Theatre). This benefit for CPT's Peace Leaders arts program features live music, an auction and more. May 9 from 1 to 4 pm. $25, stu/srs $20, kids under 12 free. Massey Goulding Estate, 305 Dawes. 416-752-1550, childrenspeacetheatre.org.

Hardwired (Early Seedling Development). This outdoor, site-specific performance features a trio of scenes about human behaviour during economic crises. Previews May 10 at 9 pm. Opens May 11 and runs to May 13, Mon-Wed 7 and 9 pm (rain or shine). Pwyc. Distillery District, 55 Mill. earlyseedlingdevelopment.netne.net

Heart And Vision Award For Social Justice (Toronto United Church Council). This tribute to award recipients Gordon Winch and Norman Jewison features performances by Louise Pitre, Jackie Richardson, Thom Allison and others. May 11 at 7 pm. $150 (proceeds to TUCC's Community Relief Fund). Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen E. 905-771-5124 ext 31.

The Highwayman – A New Musical by Sonja Seiler (Art'Sake Theatre Company). Alfred Noyes's poetic ballad about an outlaw who finds love is adapted for the stage. May 12 at 8 pm. $30. Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge. 416-872-1111, highwaymanmusical.com.

How Amazing We Can Be (Kid-Safe Productions). This family musical features singing frogs, dragons and lessons about friendship. May 9 at 11 am and 1 pm. $5. Palmerston Library, 560 Palmerston. 416-586-2466, kidsafeproductions.com.

The Importance Of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde (Stratford Festival). Two bachelors' lies catch up with them in this comedy. Previews May 9-Jun 1. Opens Jun 2 and runs in rep to Oct 30. $29-$99, students/seniors $25-$79. Avon Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

King Lear by William Shakespeare (New Allegro Theatre/the Youngest Shakespeare Company). The classic tragedy gets a staging. May 8-9 at 7:30 pm. $12-$15. Robert Gill Theatre, 214 College. 416-588-8077, newallegro.com.

Mamapalooza Festival (Bread & Circus). This Mother's Day celebration features music, poetry, comedy and more. May 10 from 1 to 5 pm. $10. 299 Augusta. 416-925-8898, breadandcircus.ca.
The Marriage Of Anansewa by Efua Sutherland (AfriCan Theatre Ensemble). The spider/man storyteller Ananse decides to auction his daughter in this West African play. Opens May 15 and runs to May 23, Thu-Sat 8 pm, mat May 16 at 2 pm. $25, students/seniors $15. Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley. 416-368-3110, africantheatre.org.

A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare (Shakespeare in Action). The romantic comedy is adapted for young audiences with puppets, acrobatics, music and more. Previews May 7-8. Opens May 9 and runs to May 23, call or see website for dates and times. $22, stu $17. Workman Theatre, 1001 Queen W. 416-703-4881, shakespeareinaction.org

A Moon For The Misbegotten by Eugene O'Neill (Shaw Festival). Economic and emotional tensions develop between a woman, her father and their landlord. Previews Apr 28-May 22. Opens May 23 and runs in rep to Oct 9. $30-$110; special mats srs $40, stu $25. Court House Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Mother's Day Show (Caribbean Dinner Theatre). Comedy from The Saga Of Bobo plus live music and dance are part of this show hosted by Marvin Trini Ishmael. May 10 at noon. $25-$30 (includes brunch). De Great Iron Pot, 55 Nugget. 416-915-0227.

Of All The People In All The World by Stan's Cafe (Harbourfront World Stage). Performers manipulate 15 tonnes of rice to represent populations and statistics in this performance installation. Opens May 13 and runs to May 24, Mon-Fri 10 am to 7 pm, Sat-Sun 11 am to 6 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000, harbourfrontcentre.com.


Performance Spring Festival (Factory Theatre). The annual showcase features Fear Of Flight by Artistic Fraud, Pyaasa by Anusree Roy, As It Is by adelheid dance projects and sketch comedy by the Dance Party of Newfoundland. Opens May 12 and runs to May 24, Tue-Sat evenings, Sun mats (see website for specific show dates, times and prices). $18-$37, some Sun pwyc shows. 125 Bathurst. 416-504-9971, factorytheatre.ca.

Spies Like Us – A Murder Mystery (Lakeview Arts Barn). A scientist uses the audience as guinea pigs in this interactive show. May 7-9 at 6:30 pm. $56.50 (dinner and show). 2300 Pigeon Lake. 1-800-304-7897, lakeviewartsbarn.com.

Sunday In The Park With George by James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim (Shaw Festival). This musical looks at love, art and inspiration in the life of painter Georges Seurat. Previews Apr 1-May 21. Opens May 22 and runs in rep to Nov 1. $30-$110; special mats seniors $40, students $25. Royal George Theatre. 1-800-511-7429, shawfest.com.

Three Sisters by Anton Chekhov (Stratford Festival). Sisters seek to escape their small-town lives and find a meaningful future in Moscow. Previews May 9-30. Opens Jun 3 and runs in rep to Oct 3. $29-$99, students/seniors $25-$79. Tom Patterson Theatre. 1-800-567-1600, stratfordfestival.ca.

Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom and Jeffrey Hatcher (Harold Green Jewish Theatre). Albom's memoir about his former professor's battle with ALS is adapted for the stage. Previews May 8-10. Opens May 12 and runs to May 31, Tue-Sat 8:30 pm, mats Sat-Sun and Wed 2:30 pm (no mat May 9). $55-$92. Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge. 416-872-5555, hgjewishtheatre.com.

Unwrap Your Candy by Doug Wright (Royal Porcupine Productions). Wright's quartet of one-act plays are performed at local bars. May 7-13, Wed-Thu 8 pm. $11.50-$15. Clinton’s, 693 Bloor W. 416-978-8849, uofttix.ca.

Wait Until Dark by Frederick Knott (Stage Centre Productions). Thugs seeking a mislaid drug stash terrorize a blind woman in her apartment. Opens May 7 and runs to May 23, Thu-Sat (and May 20) 8 pm, Sun 2 pm. $25, seniors $20, students $15. Fairview Library, 35 Fairview Mall. 416-299-5557, stagecentreproductions.com.



When I Grow Up by Lesley Carlberg and Barbara Jensen (Toy Box Productions). This benefit for Tour for Kids features stand-up comedy, singing, dancing, clown and more. May 8 at 11 pm. $25. Second City, 51 Mercer. 416-343-0011.

The Yeomen Of The Guard by Gilbert & Sullivan (The Alexander Players and Singers). This romantic comic opera is set in the Tower of London. Previews May 6. Opens May 7 and runs to May 10, Wed-Sat 7:30 pm, mats Sat-Sun 2 pm. $25, students/seniors $20. York Woods Library, 1785 Finch W. 416-324-1259, alexandersingers.com.

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

And the Nominees are...

Here is the list of Tony nominations from Playbill.com this morning: and click the link above to see the article from Playbill.


Best Play

Dividing the Estate
Author: Horton Foote
Producers: Lincoln Center Theater, Bernard Gersten, Andre Bishop, Primary Stages
God of Carnage
Author: Yasmina Reza
Producers: Robert Fox, David Pugh & Dafydd Rogers, Stuart Thompson, Scott Rudin, Jon B. Platt, The Weinstein Company, The Shubert Organization
Reasons to Be Pretty
Author: Neil LaBute
Producers: Jeffrey Richards, Jerry Frankel, MCC Theater, Gary Goddard Entertainment, Ted Snowdon, Doug Nevin/Erica Lynn Schwartz, Ronald Frankel/Bat-Barry Productions, Kathleen Seidel, Kelpie Arts, LLC, Jam Theatricals, Rachel Helson/Heather Provost
33 Variations
Author: Moises Kaufman
Producers: David Binder, Ruth Hendel, Goldberg/Mills, Latitude Link, Arielle Tepper Madover, Bill Resnick, Eric Schnall, Jayne Baron Sherman, Wills/True Love Productions, Tectonic Theater Project, Greg Reiner, Dominick Balletta, Jeffrey LaHoste

Best Musical

Billy Elliot, The Musical
Producers: Universal Pictures Stage Productions, Working Title Films, Old Vic Productions, Weinstein Live Entertainment
Next to Normal
Producers: David Stone, James L. Nederlander, Barbara Whitman, Patrick Catullo, Second Stage Theatre, Carole Rothman, Ellen Richard
Rock of Ages
Producers: Matthew Weaver, Carl Levin, Jeff Davis, Barry Habib, Scott Prisand, Relativity Media, Corner Store Fund, Janet Billig Rich, Hillary Weaver, Toni Habib, Paula Davis, Simon and Stefany Bergson/Jennifer Maloney, Charles Rolecek, Susanne Brook, Israel Wolfson, Sara Katz/Jayson Raitt, Max Gottlieb/John Butler, David Kaufman/Jay Franks, Mike Wittlin, Prospect Pictures, Laura Smith/Bill Bodnar, Happy Walters, Michele Caro, The Araca Group
Shrek The Musical
Producers: Dreamworks Theatricals, Neal Street Productions

Best Book of a Musical

Billy Elliot, The Musical
Lee Hall
Next to Normal
Brian Yorkey
Shrek The Musical
David Lindsay-Abaire
[Title of Show]
Hunter Bell

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Billy Elliot, The Musical
Music: Elton John
Lyrics: Lee Hall
Next to Normal
Music: Tom Kitt
Lyrics: Brian Yorkey
9 to 5: The Musical
Music & Lyrics: Dolly Parton
Shrek The Musical
Music: Jeanine Tesori
Lyrics: David Lindsay-Abaire

Best Revival of a Play

Joe Turner's Come and Gone
Producers: Lincoln Center Theater, Andre Bishop, Bernard Gersten
Mary Stuart
New Version: Peter Oswald
Producers: Arielle Tepper Madover, Debra Black, Neal Street Productions/Matthew Byam Shaw, Scott Delman, Barbara Whitman, Jean Doumanian/Ruth Hendel, David Binder/CarlWend Productions/Spring Sirkin, Daryl Roth/James L. Nederlander/Chase Mishkin, The Donmar Warehouse
The Norman Conquests
Producers: Sonia Friedman Productions, Steven Baruch, Marc Routh, Richard Frankel, Tom Viertel, Dede Harris, Tulchin/Bartner/Lauren Doll, Jamie deRoy, Eric Falkenstein, Harriet Newman Leve, Probo Productions, Douglas G. Smith, Michael Filerman/Jennifer Manocherian, Richard Winkler, Dan Frishwasser, Pam Laudenslager/Remmel T. Dickinson, Jane Dubin/True Love Productions, Barbara Manocherian/Jennifer Isaacson, The Old Vic Theatre Company
Waiting for Godot
Producers: Roundabout Theatre Company, Todd Haimes, Harold Wolpert, Julia C. Levy, Elizabeth Ireland McCann

Best Revival of a Musical

Guys and Dolls
Producers: Howard Panter and Ambassador Theatre Group, Tulchin/Bartner, Bill Kenwright, Northwater Entertainment, Darren Bagert, Tom Gregory, Nederlander Presentations, Inc., David Mirvish, Michael Jenkins/Dallas Summer Musicals, Independent Presenters Network, Olympus Theatricals, Sonia Friedman Productions
Hair
Producers: The Public Theater, Oskar Eustis, Andrew D. Hamingson, Jeffrey Richards, Jerry Frankel, Gary Goddard Entertainment, Kathleen K. Johnson, Nederlander Productions, Inc., Fran Kirmser Productions/Jed Bernstein, Marc Frankel, Broadway Across America, Barbara Manocherian/Wencarlar Productions, JK Productions/Terry Schnuck, Andy Sandberg, Jam Theatricals, The Weinstein Company/Norton Herrick, Jujamcyn Theaters, Joey Parnes, Elizabeth Ireland McCann
Pal Joey
Producers: Roundabout Theatre Company, Todd Haimes, Harold Wolpert, Julia C. Levy, Marc Platt
West Side Story
Producers: Kevin McCollum, James L. Nederlander, Jeffrey Seller, Terry Allen Kramer, Sander Jacobs, Roy Furman/Jill Furman Willis, Freddy DeMann, Robyn Goodman/Walt Grossman, Hal Luftig, Roy Miller, The Weinstein Company, Broadway Across America

Best Special Theatrical Event

Liza's at The Palace
Producers: John Scher and Metropolitan Talent Presents, LLC; Jubilee Time Productions, LLC
Slava's Snowshow
Producers: David J. Foster, Jared Geller, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Judith Marinoff Cohn, John Pinckard
Soul of Shaolin
Producers: Nederlander Worldwide Productions, LLC; Eastern Shanghai International Culture Film & Television Group; China on Broadway
You're Welcome America. A Final Night with George W. Bush
Producer: Jeffrey Richards, Jerry Frankel, Steve Traxler, Home Box Office Inc., Gary Sanchez Productions, Bat-Barry Productions, Ken Davenport, Ergo Entertainment, Ronald Frankel, Jon B. Platt, James D. Stern, The Weinstein Company, Tara Smith/b. Swibel, Dede Harris/Sharon Karmazin, Arny Granat

Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play

Jeff Daniels, God of Carnage
Raúl Esparza, Speed-the-Plow
James Gandolfini, God of Carnage
Geoffrey Rush, Exit the King
Thomas Sadoski, Reasons to Be Pretty

Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play

Hope Davis, God of Carnage
Jane Fonda, 33 Variations
Marcia Gay Harden, God of Carnage
Janet McTeer, Mary Stuart
Harriet Walter, Mary Stuart

Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical

David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik, and Kiril Kulish ‚ Billy Elliot, The Musical
Gavin Creel, Hair
Brian d'Arcy James, Shrek The Musical
Constantine Maroulis, Rock of Ages
J. Robert Spencer, Next to Normal

Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical

Stockard Channing, Pal Joey
Sutton Foster, Shrek The Musical
Allison Janney, 9 to 5: The Musical
Alice Ripley, Next to Normal
Josefina Scaglione, West Side Story

Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play

John Glover, Waiting for Godot
Zach Grenier, 33 Variations
Stephen Mangan, The Norman Conquests
Paul Ritter, The Norman Conquests
Roger Robinson, Joe Turner's Come and Gone

Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play

Hallie Foote, Dividing the Estate
Jessica Hynes, The Norman Conquests
Marin Ireland, Reasons to Be Pretty
Angela Lansbury, Blithe Spirit
Amanda Root, The Norman Conquests

Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical

David Bologna, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Gregory Jbara, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Marc Kudisch, 9 to 5: The Musical
Christopher Sieber, Shrek The Musical
Will Swenson, Hair

Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical

Jennifer Damiano, Next to Normal
Haydn Gwynne, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Karen Olivo, West Side Story
Martha Plimpton, Pal Joey
Carole Shelley, Billy Elliot, The Musical

Best Scenic Design of a Play

Dale Ferguson, Exit the King
Rob Howell, The Norman Conquests
Derek McLane, 33 Variations
Michael Yeargan, Joe Turner's Come and Gone

Best Scenic Design of a Musical

Robert Brill, Guys and Dolls
Ian MacNeil, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Scott Pask, Pal Joey
Mark Wendland, Next to Normal

Best Costume Design of a Play

Dale Ferguson, Exit the King
Jane Greenwood, Waiting for Godot
Martin Pakledinaz, Blithe Spirit
Anthony Ward, Mary Stuart

Best Costume Design of a Musical

Gregory Gale, Rock of Ages
Nicky Gillibrand, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Tim Hatley, Shrek The Musical
Michael McDonald, Hair

Best Lighting Design of a Play

David Hersey, Equus
David Lander, 33 Variations
Brian MacDevitt, Joe Turner's Come and Gone
Hugh Vanstone, Mary Stuart

Best Lighting Design of a Musical

Kevin Adams, Hair
Kevin Adams, Next to Normal
Howell Binkley, West Side Story
Rick Fisher, Billy Elliot, The Musical

Best Sound Design of a Play

Paul Arditti, Mary Stuart
Gregory Clarke, Equus
Russell Goldsmith, Exit the King
Scott Lehrer and Leon Rothenberg, Joe Turner's Come and Gone

Best Sound Design of a Musical

Acme Sound Partners, Hair
Paul Arditti, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Peter Hylenski, Rock of Ages
Brian Ronan, Next to Normal

Best Direction of a Play

Phyllida Lloyd, Mary Stuart
Bartlett Sher, Joe Turner's Come and Gone
Matthew Warchus, God of Carnage
Matthew Warchus, The Norman Conquests

Best Direction of a Musical

Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Michael Greif, Next to Normal
Kristin Hanggi, Rock of Ages
Diane Paulus, Hair

Best Choreography

Karole Armitage, Hair
Andy Blankenbuehler, 9 to 5: The Musical
Peter Darling, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Randy Skinner, Irving Berlin's White Christmas

Best Orchestrations

Larry Blank, Irving Berlin's White Christmas
Martin Koch, Billy Elliot, The Musical
Michael Starobin and Tom Kitt, Next to Normal
Danny Troob and John Clancy, Shrek The Musical