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Rapid Fire 20 Q with director and cast of ‘Barefoot in the Park’; at The Keeton Dinner Theatre April 11-27

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During the time Neil Simon’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK played Broadway, the prolific playwright was enjoying major success, at one point having a total of four plays running simultaneously on the Great White Way. For its initial effort, the play received four Tony nods, taking home Best Director for Mike Nichols. Opening in 1963 and closing in 1967, BAREFOOT IN THE PARK become Simon’s longest-running Broadway show, and Broadway’s tenth longest-running non-musical ever. The year the play closed on Broadway, a film adaptation premiered in theaters, transferring the success of the show to the big screen and widening the audience to movie-goers world-wide.

With such rich history, it’s no wonder The Keeton Dinner Theater has chosen BAREFOOT IN THE PARK as their latest endeavor. Directed by Lenny West and starring Regan Aycock, Evan Fenne, Aleah Christian, Steve Mook and Chad Stem, The Keeton’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK opens Friday, April 11 and continues through Sunday, April 27. Earlier this week, literally days before the show’s opening, I had a chance to chat with the director and three of the show’s stars for my latest Rapid Fire 20Q. What follows are those conversations.

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Rapid Fire 20 Q with director and cast of The Keeton’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK

Rapid Fire with BAREFOOT IN THE PARK’s Corie, Regan Aycock

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Corie Bratter, the character you play in The Keeton’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK?

REGAN AYCOCK: She’s so lovely, she loves life, she loves love, she’s quick to emotion, but quite literally always just wants to have a good time. I think Corie is the little voice in the back of all of our heads that tells us to get mad or get excited, or cry tears of joy. She’s truly all of us, especially those of us who are in love. On the surface though, she’s a 21-year-old new wife that’s trying to start her life with her new husband. Just a girl.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In preparing to chat with you and the other company members of BAREFOOT IN THE PARK, I discovered the 1981 HBO presentation starring Richard Thomas, Bess Armstrong and Barbara Barrie is available on YouTube. Pretty sure I saw it back then, but It’s been years since I’ve seen this Neil Simon classic live on stage. How excited are you to be part of this particular production?

REGAN AYCOCK: Funny you mention it! That production is actually how I memorized Cories lines, I listened to it day in and day out for weeks in order to get lines down! As for excitement—you have no idea. I wept like a baby when Lenny offered me Corie. I’ve been off the stage for quite some time now, and Barefoot auditions were simply just to get my feet wet again in terms of acting. I had no inclination that I would get Corie. Now I get to spend a little time with her every day. When I told Lenny I was going to take good care of her, I meant it. This is also such a lifelong goal of mine. I’ve been doing theatre for over a decade, and I can’t say I’ve ever been THE girl. Every actor has that dream of getting to lead a show, and Lenny gave me the opportunity to cross that off my list–It just so happens that Corie is also genuinely lovely. I’ll thank him every day for the experience.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: BAREFOOT IN THE PARK takes place in a small New York apartment of newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter. In fact, the first half-hour of the play centers around the young marrieds settling in, so I gotta ask…What do you remember most about your first apartment after moving out from your parent’s home?

REGAN AYCOCK: I still live in it! I was very fortunate to have some help moving from St. Louis to Nashville, so my apartment wasn’t in quite the state that Corie and Paul’s is (plus, there’s an elevator rather than six flights of stairs) It was scary when I first moved though, I lived by myself so I didn’t know how to fill the time. It was a brand new building however, so things did break often–but on the bright side, I had a bathtub!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: The show’s title comes from Corie’s carefree attitude towards life, as she encourages her rather uptight business-minded newlywed husband to seize unconventional opportunities in life. Is that an attitude to which you yourself subscribe?

REGAN AYCOCK: To be honest, the biggest challenge that came with playing Corie was her energy. Having to pull her loveliness and energy was difficult, as I’m a bit more of a Paul in real life. I wish to be more like Corie, she just has so much fun no matter what she’s doing. What I do have in common with her though is I think with my heart first rather than my head, there are a few lines in act 1 where I think to myself “I don’t even need to act right now”.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How much fun are you having being ‘married’ to your onscreen hubby, Evan Fenne?

REGAN AYCOCK: I’ve actually known Evan for a little bit now, we did a show together back in 2022, but hardly interacted, if at-all. It’s been great actually getting to connect with him, he’s a phenomenal actor, and an even sweeter guy. It’s nice having so much trust in a scene partner. Getting to be married is something that I’m having a lot of fun with, and it only got easier as myself and Evan got to be better friends. I can’t say enough good things about him, truly—he’s a class act.

Rapid Fire with BAREFOOT IN THE PARK’s Paul, Evan Fennel

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Paul Bratter to you?

EVAN FENNE: To me, Paul Bratter is a guy who can’t fight the fact that he is a very particular and neat person, no matter how hard he tries. I think his whole life, he has been trying to prove that he can be “fun.” And he does like to have fun, just the Paul way.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there an aspect of Paul’s character that you’d like to incorporate into your own life?

EVAN FENNE: I really love the heart of the story being how two people who are so different can be so in love and value each other so much. Paul’s ability to love Corrie for all the ways she balances him out is one I’d like to exemplify in any of my relationships, not just romantic. Even when they’re fighting, I know Paul is saying everything with the implication that he still loves her.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How familiar were you with the role prior to auditioning? AND…what was it about this show and this role in particular that prompted you to audition?

EVAN FENNE: I actually portrayed Paul in an acting class and read the play when I was at Belmont, so I was fairly familiar. After that, Paul became a dream role for me. I love Neil Simon’s sense of humor, and I immediately understood and loved Paul. When I saw that the Keeton was putting it up, I was immediately excited to audition. I’m very thankful that I was cast, and the experience has been amazing.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Quite often, it’s little details within the set decoration or props that prove the most interesting. Is there an aspect of the set that you enjoy and hope audiences take note of?

EVAN FENNE: The use of color in the set is particularly awesome to me. It’s the perfect amount and balance where it’s fun to look at but not too much. The space is also filled so well, and to be honest, it’s better decorated than my own apartment!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I chatted with Regan Aycock, I asked her about sharing the stage with you as young marrieds on stage, so I’ll ask you about having Regan as your ‘wife’? How is she as a scene partner?

EVAN FENNE: It’s been wonderful and a breeze to share the stage with Regan. We both have a lot of fun during the big argument because Paul and Corrie are trying to push each other’s buttons, while Evan and Regan are borderline trying to make each other break. She also cares greatly about making sure each of us feels comfortable and safe during scenes, for which I’m very grateful.

Rapid Fire with BAREFOOT IN THE PARK’s Ethel, Aleah Christian

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Keeton audience will no doubt recognize you, having portrayed Belinda Blair in their 2024 production of NOISES OFF. Loved you in that role, by the way! Now you’re playing Ethel Banks, aka Mother in BAREFOOT IN THE PARK. How would you describe Ethel?

ALEAH CHRISTIAN: Ethel is such a fun character to portray.  She’s a devoted mom who’s spent most of her life doing what’s expected of her, but there’s this spark in her that hasn’t gone out—she just hasn’t had a reason to let it shine in a long time. Throughout the show, you see her get a little bolder, a little braver, and it’s really heartwarming. I love that she has more interest in her character than just “The Mom.” Ethel is rediscovering parts of herself.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s your favorite scene or bit of dialogue from the show?

ALEAH CHRISTIAN: There’s a scene where Ethel has just climbed all those infamous stairs and is trying so hard to act like she’s completely fine. The physical comedy is so relatable—like when you’re trying to look composed but your body is saying, “Nope!”

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If research serves, this isn’t your first time being directed by West, having starred as M’Lynn in a 2019 production of STEEL MAGNOLIAS under his direction. What is one aspect of West’s direction that you appreciate as an actress?

ALEAH CHRISTIAN: I love working with Lenny. He’s so intuitive and creates a space where actors feel supported but also challenged in the best way. He gives you the freedom to make bold choices, but he’s always there with a thoughtful note that somehow unlocks a deeper layer of the character. His timing is just spot on. He knows how to bring out the best in a cast. Lenny is selfless and meticulous in overseeing every detail. Honestly, I could go on… I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with him again!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Some of the show’s funniest scenes happen between Ethel and Victor Vilasco, the rather eccentric upstairs neighbor of Paul and Corie. In this production, Victor is played by Steve Mook. What’s been the best thing about sharing the stage with Steve?

ALEAH CHRISTIAN: Steve has been a joy to work with! He brings so much charm and spontaneity to Victor. We’ve had a blast finding that chemistry between our characters. We are still discovering moments. He’s one of those actors who keeps you on your toes in the best way, you never feel like you’re just going through the motions. He is a great scene partner and it’s been a lot of fun sharing the stage with Steve. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: At one point, playwright Neil Simon had four plays running in four Broadway theatre at the same time, BAREFOOT IN THE PARK being one of them. While that was during the mid-60s, his work is just as timeless, entertaining and funny today. Why do you think his work holds up so well?

ALEAH CHRISTIAN: Neil Simon’s writing is rooted in real people. Even with all the comedy, his characters feel familiar. They are flawed, funny, and trying to figure things out…just like the rest of us. His dialogue is so sharp, but also full of heart. You laugh because it’s funny, but also because you recognize yourself (or someone you know) in these characters. In essence, his work is timeless and relatable on so many levels. 

Rapid Fire with BAREFOOT IN THE PARK director, Lenny West

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I understand this is your third time to direct BAREFOOT IN THE PARK. So, I gotta ask…What keeps you coming back to this particular work?

LENNY WEST:  You are correct!  This is indeed my third time in the director’s chair for this gem of show.  BAREFOOT IN THE PARK is the very first play I ever directed, so it absolutely holds a special place in my heart and that’s certainly part of what keeps me coming back to it.  Getting to check in with Paul, Corie, Mrs. Banks, Mr. Velasco & Harry Pepper every 10-ish years is like getting a warm hug from an old friend.  I think it’s also a terrifically funny script.  Most people will know Neil Simon from The Odd Couple, his most famous play, but I personally think Barefoot in the Park is his best.  It’s story and the circumstances our characters find themselves in, while a bit exaggerated for comic effect of course, are pretty true to life and many people will recognize themselves in it. It’s one of the classic comedies of the American theater, and classics are classics for a reason.  They deserve to be taken out, dusted off and revisited every now and then.  Also, the opportunity just  keeps presenting itself!    

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having directed the show three times, some might think you simply just plug in the new cast from each company, so what it is about this piece that allows you to find new ideas as a director from production to production?

LENNY WEST: That’s a great question, and it comes down to primarily two things:  First, my perspective and life experience has been different each time, so it’s impossible to not bring a bit of that to the project.  22-year-old-me saw the world and this play very differently from 34-year-old-me who sees things even more differently from (almost!) 45-year-old-me.  I think a great work of art is one that you can revisit over and over and each time it will speak to you in a new way based on where you are on this crazy journey called life.  While the bones of the play obviously stay the same and the truths at the center of the story remain, fresh nuances are revealed each time I come back to the play.  The second thing is the performers I have been fortunate enough to work with each time.  Each actor brings their own experience and interpretation and talent and those things of course will inform how they inhabit their roles  As a director, I learned a long time ago to never ever try to squeeze a performer into a prior interpretation of the role.  It never works!  And what a gift it has been to see three very different groups of individuals bring this universal story to life!  I’ve been incredibly lucky.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: BAREFOOT IN THE PARK marks your debut with The Keeton. How did directing this show for Keeton come about?

LENNY WEST: This opportunity sort of sought me out, actually.  Nashville theater legend Linda Speir is a dear friend and one of The Keeton’s board members.  She has been nudging me for a few years (sometimes gently, sometimes no so gently!) to come and work at The Keeton in some capacity, but the timing was never quite right and the right project hadn’t presented itself.  Last spring after The Keeton’s new season was announced, Linda nudged again and the time and the project were both right, and one thing led to another and here we are!.  And I’m glad she kept nudging!  I’ve had a great time at The Keeton.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: The entirety of BAREFOOT IN THE PARK takes place in a relatively small fifth floor New York walkup. What are the challenges and advantages of directing, what is a single set piece?

LENNY WEST: Ordinarily, I’d say that a play with a single set is a huge advantage in that once it’s built and decorated, you’re essentially finished and can move on to making the staging and movement of the actors interesting and visually appealing, which admittedly can be a challenge on a static set.  However, with Barefoot in the Park the conceit is that the first scene takes place the day that Corie & Paul move into their tiny apartment–so essentially an empty room–, and the next scene is four days later after furniture has arrived and after the room has been decorated and brought to full, colorful life.  So, sure, it’s one single set, but there is a MAJOR scene change that must occur.  No spoilers here as to how we accomplish it–to find out, you’ll just have to come see the show!  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences remember long after seeing The Keeton’s production of BAREFOOT IN THE PARK?

LENNY WEST: BAREFOOT IN THE PARK is first and foremost a delightful, often laugh-out-loud comedy with a huge heart, so I hope audiences will remember that they (hopefully!) had a great time watching the trials and tribulations of Corie & Paul’s first week of marriage.  But Neil Simon–that old sneaky devil–doesn’t let us off that easily.  The moral of story as I see it is that to make any kind of relationship successful, there must be compromise, there must be give and take, and everyone involved must be willing to take a small step outside of their comfort zone in order to see world from the other person’s perspective.  We shouldn’t only seek to be understood but we must also seek to understand.  We should see and appreciate and celebrate differences and eccentricities in others rather than finding fault with them.  ….and if can do that, you just might find something beautiful.   These things are necessary in order to really connect with another person, and in a world that is increasingly isolated and divided, we need connection now more than ever.  That Neil Simon….he might’ve been on to something, eh?  

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The Keeton’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK opens Friday, April 11 and continues through Sunday, April 27 with 7pm shows Thursday through Saturday and a 2pm matinee on Sunday. Thursdays are Show Only nights (Show Only tickets are $30). As always, The Keeton’s dinner offering is a perfect compliment to their current show. For BAREFOOT, The Keeton is serving Dinner Salad, Pork Chop with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, a Rolle and Apple Cobbler with Ice Cream. Dinner and Show tickets are $40 (plus a $2 fee) For Adults and $35 (plus $2 fee) for Children. For a slight uncharge, Salmon can be substituted as the main entree. For groups of 15 or more, The Keeton offers a group rate of $38 (plus $2 fee) per person. CLICK HERE for tickets.

Following BAREFOOT IN THE PARK, The Keeton will host their annual fundraising gala, A Night Under The Stars. Tickets to the event are $60. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information. Following the gala, The Keeton’s current season continues with COMPANY June 13-29. CLICK HERE for tickets and more information.

So you don’t miss out on upcoming shows at The Keeton Dinner Theatre, follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor? Click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram and Facebook. In the meantime, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with director and cast of Nashville Rep’s ‘Sunday in the Park with George’; final performances April 10-13 at TPAC’s Polk Theater

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As someone who’s shared my insights as a reviewer and interviewer for the past couple decades, it’s not often that there’s such a legendary show as SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE that I’ve somehow never seen live on stage, so when I learned Nashville Rep was bringing this classic piece of modern theatre to life at TPAC’s Polk Theater with performances April 4-13, I knew I had to chat with director Jason Spelbring and cast members David Shannon, Christine Dwyer and Nancy Allen for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q. What follows are those conversations.

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Rapid Fire 20Q with director and cast members of Nashville Rep’s SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE

Rapid Fire with David Shannon, George in Nashville Rep’s SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For those who may not be familiar with the show, what’s your one-sentence break-down of the plot of SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE?

DAVID SHANNON: A neurotic artist struggles to paint a perfect Sunday afternoon in the park while dealing with his own self-doubt, and the ever-present fear that his masterpiece might just be a bit too…pointless

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about George?

DAVID SHANNON: George 1.0 is an artist struggling with his own creativity and lack of connection to those around him George 2.0 also struggles to find his individual creativity but is willing to look for it and connect , eventually.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When the cast announcement included your name, I can’t tell you how excited I was. Having enjoyed a hugely successful career both as a touring solo performer across the US and Europe, you’ve also achieved huge success on the West End stage including roles in the World Premier productions of MISS SAIGON and LES MISERABLES. Ireland, Sweden, London…Nashville? So I gotta ask…exactly how did this latest stop on your worldwide domination come to be?

DAVID SHANNON: My family and I decided we wanted to move back stateside post pandemic and we chose TN as it ticked so many boxes , we’d never even visited before but 4 years ago we took a risk and moved sight unseen and it is the best decision we’ve ever made.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For a little fun, I’m asking you and your fellow SUNDAY company members…If you could mount an all-new play about your personal favorite piece of art, what would it be and why?

DAVID SHANNON:I’m a sucker for a Turner so it’d have to be THE FIGHTING TEMERAIRE, so much history and change in that painting

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with your leading lady, so as my final question for you…What’s your favorite aspect of sharing the stage with Christine been thus far?

DAVID SHANNON: Well we seem to gel voice wise quiet effortlessly so when we do get to sing together its a joy and so easy, but honestly we have very similar attitudes to things so we do laugh a lot, maybe a little too much

Rapid Fire with  SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE ’s Dot, Christine Dwyer

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Dot to you?

CHRISTINE DWYER: Dot is everyone’s best friend, biggest supporter, truth teller, and muse. She is seen by the community as one thing, but when it really comes down to it, she is a constant for George. She is smart and kind and resourceful and so strong. She reminds me alot of my late mother in law Janice combined with my mom. And that’s where I draw the inspiration from when playing her. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I spoke with David, I asked him about sharing the stage with you, so turnabout is fair play…how is David as a scene partner?

CHRISTINE DWYER: David is the best. We instantly became buddies when I think these two characters are. Yes they are lovers, but they are best friends. And I instantly felt that connection with him which translates seamlessly onstage. He is a phenomenal actor and takes himself just as seriously and UNseriously as I do. So it has been a great match.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having appeared in everything from WICKED to WAITRESS, RENT and more, what’s it like to be performing Sondheim? AND…Do you have a favorite musical moment in the show?

CHRISTINE DWYER: The last Sondheim I performed in was INTO THE WOODS my senior year of high school. So to revisit his material is so special. He is an actor’s writer. Every musical choice and lyric furthers the story and deepens the character. While musical theatre is what I have had success in, I’ve always considered myself an actor first. So getting to do this is so wonderful. There are so many musical moments in the show that I love, but I think my favorite song to sing also has my favorite lyrics and musical moment in the show. It is Marie’s song Children and Art when she says “Mama says ‘Darling, musn’t be blue. It’s not so much do what you like as it is that you like what you do”. I just love that sentiment and the melody is so beautiful. It makes me emotional every time. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I gotta tell you when I heard you were stepping into the role of Dot for Nashville Rep’s SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, I may or may not have misquoted Buddy the Elf and said out loud, “I know her!” Of course you and I originally met years ago when you were appearing as Elphaba in WICKED National Tour and the company did a wonderful fundraiser while here in Nashville. Obviously philanthropy has always been important to you. While researching to chat with you, I discovered you and your husband, Matt DeAngelis founded and oversee THE JANICE JAM, a Breast Cancer Research Foundation charity in honor of Matt’s mother whom you mentioned earlier. What can you tell me about the foundation? AND When is the next fundraiser? 

CHRISTINE DWYER: THE JANICE JAM: BROADWAY FOR BREAST CANCER is a foundation Matt and I started in honor of Janice DeAngelis. She was the biggest theatre fan you know. Everyone’s mom. The best friend. The funniest person. And we are honored to honor her every year. This year, we have moved to a larger venue, Sony Hall in New York City and it will take place on May 5th. We have incredible performers including Kara Lindsay, Jeremy Jordan, Krysta Rodriguez and Academy Award Winner Ariana DeBose. Research saves lives and we are so fortunate to have teamed up with BCRF: The Breast Cancer Research Foundation to raise funds for more research to help those struggling with this disease.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As witnessed by the two two-part questions above, I could have done all 20 questions with you, but alas my time with you is running short. I’m asking the others in the company this final question, so it’s your turn…If you could turn your favorite painting into a stage show, what would it be and why?

CHRISTINE DWYER: I am going to go to a funny place here. I would turn the painting THE SCREAM into a musical starring Cole Escola and it would be a dark comedy that is completely over the top and ridiculous. Maybe an annual Halloween type show. I don’t know what it would be about…but I can imagine it being an absolute BLAST. 

Rapid Fire with SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE ’s Blair, Nancy Allen

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As indicated in the header above, you play Blair Daniels in SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, but you also have a duel role as Old Lady. What can you tell me about the challenges of two roles and the duality of the story/stories in the show

NANCY ALLEN: I wouldn’t say it was a challenge, but more of a chance to find both women in me.  My mother died recently and I am channeling much of her later years in Old Woman.  She was sometimes confused as she aged and when she was, it frightened her. When she was frightened, she could be critical and harsh. Yet, when she was lucid, she was dignified, funny, intelligent and one of the most supportive and tolerant people I knew of her generation. I think the Old Lady is similar, she relies on Nurse to help her navigate life and is most happy in the park when it is quiet. My mother also regressed in chaos, but enjoyed peace. She enjoys solitude because she is not reminded that she is aging and losing her memory.  Blair Daniels is less like me, but I do know what it is like to have opinions because you are an expert on a subject. She enjoys being flamboyant, and “larger than life” which we as actors can also enjoy. I like Blair so it was fun to create who she might be. Our wig master gave me a fabulous wig to help embody this character. Both characters encourage George in they own ways – wanting him to create yet not always able to understand his methods or to communicate well. Both have strong personalities which do not instinctively have an urge to nurture; yet they obviously love George and know he is different from other artists – more advanced. They know he sees beyond what other artists see.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While perusing your bio in preparation of chatting with you, I loved that seeing the original Broadway production of SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE served as a catalyst for your career in theatre. While I didn’t see it on Broadway (my first Broadway show was Patti LuPone in EVITA, so not too shabby), I do remember the PBS broadcast of SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE. So, I gotta know. What do you remember specifically about the original production and why/how it had such an impact on you?

NANCY ALLEN: I remember seeing this when I was in college. During that time I was beginning to think about what a career in musical theatre performance might look like.  I remember being awed by the set and scenery – how they created the painting and how you could escape or travel to a whole world inside the theatre. I also remember the dynamic portrayal of George on stage by Mandy Patinkin which immediately sparked a 40 year crush on the man; AND seeing his energy, diction, and passion on stage defined what I continue to desire in all theater performers. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’ve been writing about theatre, interviewing cast and reviewing shows for nearly twenty years now. In that time, I’ve seen you in several shows, so I was thrilled when I learned you’d be one of the folks I’d be chatting you up about SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE . For the last decade and a half, when not on stage, you’ve spent your days as a voice instructor at Belmont. What’s the most gratifying aspect of teaching voice?

NANCY ALLEN: I love seeing a student’s face when they accomplish something we have been working on, or when that light goes on in discovery. The first time they actually “feel” their breath support the tone, or the first time they know they sang that belt in the pocket and it was open, gorgeous and effortless. I recently helped a young woman find her head voice. She is a strong belter, but had not accessed her soprano classical sound. When she finally began to understand it she was glowing.  I love it when I have “touted” (to use a word Blair says in our production) their work and they are rewarded with a role or university award. I also have to admit, seeing your student perform in a national tour or on Broadway is a real rush of emotions and just plain fun. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If you could develop a musical based on your favorite painting, what would it be and why?

NANCY ALLEN: I have so many favorites – my mother was an artist as was my grandmother.  I have collected contemporary art my whole life. Our first stop when traveling was always the art museum in the city. I loved Magritte’s art as a young woman and think it would be fun to see a musical about the MAN IN THE BOWLER HAT. (IYKYK) And, I own a fun painting called PINK PIANO DOG by Joe Baker. It would be fun to see a musical based on what that dog is thinking. 

Rapid Fire with  SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE director, Jason Spelbring

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having recently been named Artistic Director of the Nashville Shakespeare Festival, how did you come to direct SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE for Nashville Rep?

JASON SPELBRING: Theatre is a deeply collaborative art form, and Nashville has an incredible community of artists and organizations that support each other. While my primary role is leading the Nashville Shakespeare Festival, I was thrilled when the opportunity arose to direct  SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE  with Nashville Rep. It’s a stunning piece about the creative process, something that resonates deeply with me as both a director and an arts leader. Working with Nashville Rep on this production allows me to bring a fresh perspective to Sondheim’s masterpiece while continuing to foster artistic collaboration in the city. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While researching to chat with you, I discovered this isn’t your first Stephen Sondheim/James Lapine musical, having appeared as the Stewart in a production of INTO THE WOODS a few years back. Now you’re helming Nashville Rep’s SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE . How excited are you to bring this beloved piece to Nashville audiences?

JASON SPELBRING: I am very excited and proud to bring this beloved masterpiece to Nashville audiences.  SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE  is a truly iconic musical, and it is always a thrill to see it brought to life for new audiences. Combining Stephen Sondheim’s masterful music and James Lapine’s insightful book creates something profound and unique for everyone. I am also excited for Nashville audiences to see themselves represented in this musical.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As further research, I recently rewatched the mid-80s PBS broadcast of the original Broadway production of SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE , starring Mandy Patinkin and Bernadette Peters. I was immediately struck by how iconic the set design is for this show. It’s so iconic, in fact, that Tony Strages won the Tony for his original scenic design. You must have addressed paying some sort of homage to the original set design while making it this production’s own with Gary C. Hoff, Nashville Rep’s incredibly talented scenic designer. Can you give me any hints about how you and the creative team approached the set design for SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE ?

JASON SPELBRING: Gary C. Hoff’s work on this production has been extraordinary. With his 25-year legacy at Nashville Rep, Gary crafted a set that feels like a blank canvas—just as George, the artist, brings something new into existence from nothing. The set design perfectly blends iconic elements from the original production and a fresh interpretation that captures the show’s spirit. It’s a beautiful, transformative space that draws the audience into the world of the play.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If you were to develop another stage production that brings to life a painting by your own personal favorite artist, what painting would it be and why?

JASON SPELBRING: THE EXECUTION OF LADY JANE GREY by Paul Delaroche (1797 – 1856)

THE EXECUTION OF LADY JANE GREY would make a compelling musical because it combines elements of tragedy, complex characters, political intrigue, and the opportunity to explore timeless themes. The painting’s dramatic and historical weight, combined with the expressive potential of musical theater, could create a profoundly moving and memorable experience for audiences.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take with them long after seeing Nashville Rep’s SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE ?

JASON SPELBRING: I hope audiences leave SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE feeling deeply moved by the connection between art, life, and the human experience. This show explores the complexities of creativity, relationships, and legacy—how they intertwine and how we often sacrifice parts of ourselves to pursue our passion. I want people to reflect on their connections to their work, their loved ones, and what they leave behind.

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Marking the close of Nashville Rep’s current season, SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE premiered at TPAC’s Polk Theater on Friday, April 4 and continues through Sunday, April 13. Evening performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 10-12 at 7:30pm, with matinees Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13 at 2pm. Tickets range in price from $45 to $106. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets or for more information.

Though their official 2024-2025 Season ends with SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, Nashville Rep continues to bring new and innovative theatre to Music City with their next Ingram New Works entry as they present a staged reading of Cameron L. Mitchell’s REGICIDE: TO KILL A KING, April 25 at Nashville PBS Studios (161 Rains Avenue). As always, tickets to Nashville Rep’s Ingram New Works series are FREE. CLICK HERE to RSVP.

The Rep will then host their 9th ANNUAL BROADWAY BRUNCH on Sunday, August 18 from 10:30am until 2pm at Music City Center. This year’s event will be co-charied by Holli Harrision and Kim Hewell. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information.

Follow a brief hiatus, Nashville Rep will be back with the Nashville-area regional premiere of COME FROM AWAY onstage September 12-21 as the opener of their 2025-2026 Season. CLICK HERE to purchase Season Tickets.

As always, check out Nashville Rep online and follow them on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram.If you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with ‘KIMBERLY AKIMBO’ stars Carolee Carmello, Jim Hogan, Emily Koch and Darron Hayes as National Tour continues; at TPAC’s Jackson Hall beginning April 8

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KIMBERLY AKIMBO, a musical story of a young woman with a disease that rapidly ages her, who, instead of giving up, decides to live her life to the fullest every day. With book by David Lindsay-Abaire (based on his earlier comedy play of the same name) and music by Jeanine Tesori, the original Broadway run garnered the show eight Tony nominations, taking home five, including Best Musical. When the National Tour was announced, three-time Tony nominee Carolee Carmello was cast in the lead role as 16-year-old Kimberly, alongside five understudies of the original company.

As the cast and crew of KIMBERLY AKIMBO readied themselves for their Nashville debut, with performances at TPAC’s Jackson Hall April 8-13, I recently had the chance to pose a few questions to the show’s lead actress Carolee Carmello and her fellow cast members Jim Hogan, Emily Koch and Darron Hayes for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature Rapid Fire 20Q. What follow are those conversations.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST OF KIMBERLY AKIMBO; AT TPAC APRIL 8-13

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH JIM HOGAN, BUDDY IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Buddy, the character you play in KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

JIM HOGAN:  Buddy is our protagonist, Kimberly’s, troubled (and loving) father who just can’t seem to get it right despite his best (and worst) efforts.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: While the tour began in September of last year, you have been part of the KIMBERLY AKIMBO family since late 2022 when you joined the Broadway company as standby for Buddy. In the two years since you’ve been associated with the role, has your approach to the character changed?

JIM HOGAN:  I don’t think I’d say changed as much as I’d say grown.  Being able to play Buddy night after night as opposed to the occasional nature of being a standby has heightened my sense of truth within his words and actions, despite how complicated they can be.  I’m truly grateful to get to step into his Reeboks every night. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Prior to joining this show, you previously toured with WAITRESS and PHANTOM, so tour life has been part of your life for a decade now. What’s your favorite thing about life on the road?

JIM HOGAN: I LOVE touring.  There’s something so special about it, and I hope every performer, both professional and aspiring, gets the chance to do it.  I’d say my favorite part is exploring each city, but specifically trying each city’s unique cuisines. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of life on the road, in another lifetime, I too spent a couple years traveling from town to town during the original first two seasons of AMERICAN IDOL as part of the production. My main gig was registering hopefuls as they readied auditions for then-judges Randy Jackson, Paul Abdul and Simon Cowell. I bring this up because when I was told I’d be chatting with you for this Rapid Fire 20Q featuring members of the National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO, I immediately recognized your name as being part of the vocal group T3 who appeared during 2021’s Season 16 of AMERICA’s GOT TALENT. So a two-parter…What’s your fondest memory of your time on AGT? AND…What’s going on with T3 now?

JIM HOGAN:  That’s so cool!!  We have a Simon Cowell connection 😅  T.3 had a blast on AGT, I’d say our favorite part was getting to meet and learn from everyone involved: the celebrity judges/host of course, but the artists/performers within the show and those backstage perhaps even more.  It was a very eye-opening and important part of T.3’s creation and a great stepping stone to get us to where we are today!  We are actively releasing new music, our viral cover of Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek” will be available on streaming shortly, and we tour all over the country whenever our schedule allows!  We are releasing our biggest tour schedule yet in the coming weeks, so be on the lookout to see T.3 near you in August and September of this year 🙂

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Back to KIMBERLY AKIMBO, Within the context of the show, even though Buddy is Kimberly’s father, he’s not exactly the ideal dad, and the roles seem a bit reversed at times. What’s your favorite aspect of exploring this dynamic with Carolee Carmello on stage night after night?

JIM HOGAN:  Well first of all, Carolee is incredible in this part and it’s been an honor to act alongside her every night.  As far as Buddy’s complexities go, I have always felt like I know him. For better or for worse, but I think more people are like Buddy than they would care to admit. I think that’s been the biggest thing, is tapping into the parts of myself that maybe I don’t love so much. But that in itself, has been healing.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH EMILY KOCH, DEBRA IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Debra, the role you play in KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

EMILY KOCH: Debra is a bold, brash, fabulous woman. She might be involved in some unsavory activities but she knows how to get what she wants by any means necessary. She also, most importantly, adores her niece, Kim and wants her to have the best life she can. I love getting to play someone so sure of themselves, it’s inspiring.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Your show bio reveals that Jim Hogan, who plays Buddy, has been your boyfriend in real life for seven years. If my math is mathin’, that means you two began dating while you were both on tour with WAITRESS. Even though I’d love to know the worst, I’ll play nice and ask…What’s the best part of sharing scenes with your actual love interest AND having them on the road with you?

 EMILY KOCH: Your math is mathin’! That is where we met. I’m being totally honest when I say, there really isn’t a worst part. Jim and I have both worked a lot separately and together and both done multiple tours so we just know how to do it well, so, knock on wood, we haven’t had any problems out here. We also just really deeply get along and respect each other’s work. It’s also been fun to play people who don’t like each other in the show. Maybe that’s why we are so happy, we work it all out on the stage!

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: During the Broadway run, you were standby for both Debra and Patti. How excited were you when you learned you’d been cast as Debra for the tour?

EMILY KOCH: I was ecstatic. Being the avid theatre fan that I am, learning you’re gonna lead a David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori musical is like winning the theatre lottery. I have to admit when I got cast on Broadway, I considered my time there as an extended audition for the tour. I just had never loved a show so much and wanted to be a part of it for as long as I could. I was also hoping Jim would get cast and he got the call from him agents about five minutes after me. Needless to say, it was an awesome day for our household. We drank champagne at noon.

 JHP ENTERTAINMENT: From what I hear, there’s a few minor differences as far as staging and such from the Broadway run. Among the changes, Aunt Debra now skates. I gotta know, was skating already among your ‘special skills’ and what all was involved in brushing up on your technique during the rehearsal process of KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

EMILY KOCH: Yes,Debra does skate! I think the reason that change happened is because when I was covering on Broadway, I had to skate as Patti, so they knew I could already do it. Skating was definitely not a special skill of mine, but I do love to watch it and always have. We got to take a few lessons on actual ice for Broadway and Tour which was helpful and fun, and we do a cast “skate call” three times a week so now I think we all feel pretty comfortable out there.

 JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Having previously toured with WAITRESS and WICKED, when you find yourself coming back to cities you’ve previously visited, do you try to revisit spots you enjoyed before, or do you try to scope out new things in now-familiar cities? Oh, and by the way, I hear The Escape Game Nashville in my little neighborhood of Berry Hill is quite fun, so…you’re welcome!

 EMILY KOCH: Thank you so much for the rec! Escape rooms are such a good tour activity! And yes, that’s my favorite thing about tour honestly, is going back to my old haunts in all these awesome cities. They fully transport me to how I felt the last time I was there and I love that feeling. Aside from Memphis, TN, I have played every single city we are going to in this first year and I’m so happy to return to all of them.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH DARRON HAYES, MARTIN IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Martin?

DARRON HAYES: Martin is a star to be. He’s one of the teens in show choir who’s in a sticky love square, but knows there’s a beautiful and fulfilling life awaiting him outside of New Jersey.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Like a number of your tour mates, you were also part of the Broadway cast of KIMBERLY AKIMBO. Has that fact aided in the company feeling like family as you’ve all taken the show on the road?

DARRON HAYES: Yes, it’s been so nice to return to Kimberly Akimbo with familiar faces and relationships. We get to tell this incredible story in a slightly different way with some great new faces as well!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: During your time with the Broadway production, you understudied the roles of Martin, Aaron and Seth. If a bit of internet sleuthing proved useful, it was March of last year that you made your Broadway debut as Martin. What was that moment like AND…how has your interpretation of Martin changed now that he’s yours completely?

DARRON HAYES: My Broadway debut, that happened almost a year ago today, was the most magical night of my life thus far. I’d worked for and hoped and dreamed of this moment my entire life. And when it happened, I thought… Here we go. This is just the beginning. Keep going, grasshopper, and I’m so proud of you! What has changed about me playing Martin full time now, is that I’m allowed to take full ownership of my interpretation, rather than feeling like I need to figure out how I fit in, what can sometimes feel like someone else’s play.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Alright, when I chatted with Jim Hogan earlier, I asked him a bit about T3 and his experience on AGT. As I confessed to him, I worked on the original AMERICAN IDOL back in the day, so when I discovered you auditioned for IDOL a couple years ago, I knew I had to ask you about that experience. What did you use for your audition song?….AND…Have you and Jim ever compared ‘reality competition tv’ notes?

DARRON HAYES: We haven’t had the chance to compare our experiences yet, but maybe now we will. And I sang All I Do by legend, Stevie Wonder. And my experience with AMERICAN IDOL was interesting. I took it for what it was, met some insanely talented singers, and learned what I could from that unique experience!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: IS there a theme or idea presented in KIMBERLY AKIMBO that you find yourself consciously or unconsciously being more mindful of in your off time?

DARRON HAYES: ABSOLUTELY! As Crazy as Aunt Deb is, she never lied. Life is gonna life, and sometimes you aren’t dealt the best stack of cards. But to me, life is about looking at what you DO have control over. What decisions and choices can I make for a better outcome? Or to be more fulfilled? So the song Better is basically my motto for life.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH CAROLEE CARMELLO, KIMBERLY IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHPENTERTAINMENT: OK, before we get into talking about KIMBERLY AKIMBO, I’m just gonna fanboy a bit. I’ve enjoyed your work since your stint as Maple LaMarsh on AMC’s comedy series Remember WENN? What do you remember most about your time on that series?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: CAROLEE CARMELLO:  That show was a dream come true for me! I loved the scripts (by the brilliant Rupert Holmes) and I loved the 40s costumes and hairstyles (despite the fact that I didn’t wear a wig and all that hair spray definitely took a toll on my hair). Plus the cast was so talented!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Now, on to KIMBERLY AKIMBO…From the start, what do audiences need to know about KIMBERLY, the show…and the character?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: I love the show! So smartly written, so funny, so touching … it really is the kind of musical I enjoy watching because it gives you ALL the feels! And the character I play is so positive, despite all of her many challenges. I learn a lot from Kimberly every night!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If my research and memory serve me right, you’ve been in something like 16 Broadways shows, received three Tony nominations, and KIMBERLY marks your 7th national tour. Revisiting your incredible body of work, I was reminded of something my now-90 year-old former art teach frequently says, “Art is Life”. In regards to you, that certainly seems true. What’s behind your love of the arts and what keeps you continuing to explore your own creativity?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: Oh gosh, I still love musicals … I think it’s such an amazing way to tell a story. And I think live theater is the best way to experience story telling … sitting in a dark theater with a community of people watching LIVE actors and LIVE musicians bringing a story to life! It brings people together in so many ways … which is vital, especially right now.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Back to KIMBERLY AKIMBO, If you were faced with circumstances similar to Kimberly’s is there anything you’d do differently or anything you’d lift from Kimberly’s reactions to her circumstances to better your own remaining time?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: I can only hope that I would take on each day the way Kimberly does … she wants an adventure, and she gets it, despite all of her challenges! It’s really inspiring!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Dang! I could have done all 20 questions with you, but our time is up as I’m about to chat with a couple of your costars, so I’ll end our conversation with this. What do you hope audiences take with them after seeing KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: I think the message of the show is to enjoy the time we have and the people we have to share it with … nothing else matters!

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The National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO comes to Music City for eight performances beginning Tuesday, April 8 and continuing through Sunday, April 13 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall as part of the current Broadway at TPAC Series. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information.

Following the Music City dates,  KIMBERLY AKIMBO stops in Charlotte, Durham, Boston, Washington DC and more as the current National Tour continues through May of 2026. To keep up with all things KIMBERLY AKIMBO, checkout their Official Site and follow them on Facebook, X, Instagram, Youtube and TikTok.

Next up at TPAC, it’s yet another Tony-winner as MJ: THE MUSICAL, exploring the life and career of music mega-star Michael Jackson closes out the current season of Broadway at TPAC with shows April 29-May 11. CLICK HERE for tickets and more information and be sure and check back right here at JHPENTERTAINMENT.COM as I’ll soon be chatting with members of the cast of MJ prior to their Nashville debut.

You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with playwright and cast of ‘The Sparkley Clean Funeral Singers’; at Darkhorse Theatre beginning March 13

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A musical about a failed country music duo who’ve returned to their small town, work at the family dry cleaning business and return to music by singing personalized songs at funerals…I’m in! Written by Lori Fischer with tunes by Fischer and her songwriting partner Don Chaffer, THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS opens Thursday, March 13 at Darkhorse Theatre (4610 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209) and continues through Saturday, March 22. Earlier this week, as the cast and crew prepared for opening night, I had the chance to chat with Fischer and her costars Lauren Braddock Havey, Robert Coles and Alan Lee for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q. Those conversations follow.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH PLAYWRIGHT AND CAST OF THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS

RAPID FIRE WITH THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS’ JUNIE LASHLEY, ACTRESS AND PLAYWRIGHT, LORI FISHCHER

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about the plot of your musical, THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS?

LORI FISCHER: THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS is about two country singing sisters who had a record deal, but then lost it when the lead singing sister crashes their tour bus. The backup singing sister, however, is not done with the singing dream. So, she gets them a gig as funeral singers, hoping it will be their comeback.

The show is also about reconciliation and revolves around the Lashley family and the mother that left them long ago.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While SPARKLEY debuted over a decade ago in New York, and among its previous mountings, was presented at Cumberland County Playhouse a few years back, this marks the show’s Nashville debut. Has the show changed much since its original staging?

LORI FISCHER: Yes! The script went through massive changes after its debut at Capitol Repertory Theatre. Post first show, SPARKLEY was then workshopped at Florida Studio Theater where, once again, major script and music changes occurred. By the time the show was produced at the Cumberland County Playhouse, the script and songs were pretty set. Although, even during that production, more changes occurred. After CCP, the show was set and is now published by Concord Theatricals.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Considering your Dad is legendary songwriter, Bobby Fischer, I’d imagine the songwriting aspect came second-hand to you. How easily did the songs fall into place for SPARKLEY?

LORI FISCHER: Some of the songs came easily. Don and I wrote Big Time Plans and I don’t think we changed one lyric. Other songs though, took quite awhile though. I think we went through three different opening numbers before landing on Honky Without the Tonky. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Among your co-stars is our mutual friend Lauren Braddock Havey. You two actually did a staged reading of this show about a year ago, right? How much fun are you having sharing the stage with Lauren in SPARKLEY?

LORI FISCHER: I adore Lauren and working with her is a dream-come-true. She brings so much heart and excellence to the Lashley role! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As not only a star of the show, but also the playwright, what do you hope audiences take with them long after seeing the show?

LORI FISCHER: Laughter. We’re living in divisive, difficult times. But laughter can bring us together. Laughter soothes the soul and theater in general creates heightened empathy.

RAPID FIRE WITH THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS’ LASHLEY  LASHLEY, LAUREN BRADDOCK HAVEY

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I heard you were part of this cast, I knew I had to chat with you! What can you tell me about Lashley Lashley, the character you play in THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS?
LAUREN BRADDOCK HAVEY: So great to chat with YOU Jonathan! Oh my gosh, Lashley Lee Lashley, what a dream to play. This is my third go round with a character of Lori’s that she has entrusted me with. I love them all-they are all so rich and Lashley is no exception and probably my favorite. What actress wouldn’t love playing an alcoholic country singer with ADHD?! And if anyone says it’s typecasting I’ll punch ‘em haha! Truly a blast to let loose with her and lean into her naughty behavior. She and I do have a similar mother issue in common interestingly in a coincidental art immitating life kind of way. Lashley to me is kind of like an M n M, hard on the outside but soft and sweet on the inside.
JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I chatted with Lori, I mentioned her dad being a well-known songwriter. Of course your dad is Bobby Braddock, who penned hits for everyone from George Jones and Tammy Wynette to Nancy Sinatra. Having grown up around music icons, I gotta know, have you gathered inspiration for Lashley Lashley from anyone in particular?
LAUREN BRADDOCK HAVEY: Great question! Yes I have! I have definitely given some thought to who some of her musical hero’s might have been and she also shares some personality traits with some artists I have known but I’d rather people guess who! She’s definitely a composite of some of the bigger than life artists I have had the good fortune to have gotten to know.
JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of fathers, Alan Lee play’s Junie and Lashley’s father, Lyle Lashley. What’s Alan like as a scene partner?
LAUREN BRADDOCK HAVEY: Alan is such a warm, committed and generous scene mate. When he calls me “Peanut” I truly feel our shared history and can picture little Lashley and Junie at his knee. It’s such a joy to get to work with him!
JHPENTERTAINMENT: Do you have a favorite musical moment in the show?
LAUREN BRADDOCK HAVEY: Ah man, there are so many gems it’s kind of hard to choose just one! The sisterhood moments are fun and special, doing No Impulse Control with Robbie is a hoot and All That You Can Eat Liver and Onions is an absolute blast to perform.
JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Lashley Lashley’s look for the show?
LAUREN BRADDOCK HAVEY: I’d call Lashley’s look in this show a bit “country tarty chic.” A bit of big hair and big lashes. She raided my closet and is hoarding my lavender Luccasse boots. She enjoys some glitz some glamour and of course…SPARKLE! 

RAPID FIRE WITH THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS’ PASTOR PHIL, ROBERT COLES

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Pastor Phil, the character you play in THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS?

ROBERT COLES: Pastor Phil is a kind-hearted preacher, but he’s not perfect. He has a bit of a gambling addiction and sometimes lets his impulses get the better of him. He’s a huge fan of the Lashley Sisters and finds himself star-struck when they come home from their tour and suddenly need a new opportunity. I’ve really loved taking on this role and giving him some heart. He provides some comedic relief throughout the show, but at his core, he loves his wife, his faith, and his congregation. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to be involved in this show?

ROBERT COLES: Lori and I have been friends for years. We met doing a playwriting festival back in 2019 and have kept in touch. When this opportunity came along, she reached out to me to submit an audition and I jumped at it! I’ve loved working with this incredibly talented cast, including one of my acting heros, Alan Lee. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Pastor Phil, you’re a huge Lashley Sisters fan. You’re a playwright yourself, so I was wondering…IF you were to write a show about your favorite music duo who would it be about?

ROBERT COLES: That’s a great question! I’d love to write a show about The White Stripes. Think about the music! And the storytelling! They’ve got such an interesting dynamic and vocal style that I think it would be a real winning combo. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I understand David Hemsley Caldwell is directing the show. What’s your favorite aspect of David’s directing style?

ROBERT COLES: I like how David lets us unfold the characters naturally. He has allowed us to make some choices when it comes to characterization, and that’s been a fun process. We’ve gotten close during this process, and I think that’s showing on stage every night. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Lately you’ve been one of the busiest guys in the Nashville theatre scene, so I gotta ask…what’s next for you?

ROBERT COLES: I don’t like downtime! Next, I’m performing as Letterwriter #3 in Women In Theatre Nashville’s production of TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS at the Darkhorse March 28 and 29! After that, I’m focusing on two of my shows that are headed to the Next Step Theatre Festival in New York City, opening Off-Broadway at the end of May. I’m also currently directing THE SOUND INSIDE, opening in late June! I love to stay busy!

RAPID FIRE WITH THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS’ LYLE LASHLEY, ALAN LEE

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Lyle Lashley to you?

ALAN LEE: Lyle is a dear soul who has kept his hurt bottled up for many years in an attempt to protect his daughters and give them a happy, fulfilled life.He loves them dearly, and that is not diminished by his impairment.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: The character description for Lyle reveals that like his daughters, he has Alzheimer’s. Not exactly what you think of when you think of musical comedy. So I gotta ask, What’s been the biggest challenge AND the biggest reward of approaching such a serious illness with humor and heart?

ALAN LEE: Lyle’s dementia is near constant, but he is given a few lucid episodes. My challenge with him was to make him, at his core, the same loving father to his daughters. The more diminished he is, the closer he becomes to the person who he is at his core. Someone who is loving and giving, so that the audience can see that his soul is the same whether he is lucid or trapped in dementia. He can get frustrated, but it is always with himself, never his girls. I seek to show that his sacrifices for their welfare are, in his mind, all justified.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m sure you know this already, but I’ve been a fan of yours since the days of The Boiler Room Theatre. The Darkhorse Theatre reminds me a lot of Boiler Room, in that both venues provide a more intimate theatrical experience. Does the venue or theatre company where a show will be mounted ever influence your interest in auditioning for a role?

ALAN LEE: Thank you, Jonathan. Yes, the venue has a definite bearing on how the audience will receive a work. The Darkhorse, like the Boiler Room, allows a more intimate connection with the audience emotionally, and that pays off with a musical like this. I think the Darkhorse is a great venue for this work.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: With THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS you’ve had the playwright right there in the mix as Lori is playing one of your character’s two daughters. Have there been times during the rehearsal process that she’s offered insight into the character you’re playing, having written the role?

ALAN LEE: Having Lori both as author and scene partner has been a rich experience. She is the ultimate resource and has been an unfailingly positive influence on my work in finding and playing Lyle. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Channeling your character, what would Lyle say to those considering seeing THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS during its Darkhorse Theatre run?

ALAN LEE: “I’m as proud of these girls as I can be and know that if you come see us you will be as taken with them as I am.” 

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Presented by Art4Art’s Sake Productions, THE SPARKLEY CLEAN FUNERAL SINGERS opens at Darkhorse Theatre March 13 and continues through March 22. Performances are as follows: 7:30pm performances March 13-15, as well as March 19-22. There are also matinee performances March 15, 16 and 22. Tickets are $20 plus a $3.18 handling fee. Seating is General Admission. CLICK HERE for tickets. For the latest from Art4Art’s Sake Productions, CLICK HERE.

Next up at Darkhorse Theatre, WIT (Women in Theatre) will present Tiny Beautiful Things. Based on the book by Cheryl Strayed and adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos, WIT’s production will be directed by Erin Grace Bailey and will take to the stage at Darkhorse March 28 and 29. CLICK HERE for more.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire Q&A with ‘HADESTOWN’ stars Nickolaus Colón and Namisa Mdlalose Bizana; at TPAC March 7-9

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HADESTOWN, often described as a Broadway folk opera, is singer/songwriter/playwright Anaïs Mitchell’s Tony and Grammy-winning musical retelling of Greek myths involving Orpheus, Eurydice, Hades, Persephone, Hermes and The Fates. When I heard HADESTOWN would be playing a limited weekend run at TPAC’s Jackson Hall Friday, March 7 thru Sunday, March 9, I knew I had to chat with some of the company of the show’s current tour for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire Q&A.

To that end, what follows are my conversations with HADESTOWN’s Hades and Persephone, Nickolaus Colón and Namisa Mdlalose Bizana:

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RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH HADESTOWN STARS NICKOLAUS COLÓN AND NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA; NATIONAL TOUR AT TPAC BEGINNING MARCH 7

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA, PERSEPHONE IN HADESTOWN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For the uninitiated, what is HADESTOWN about?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: It’s about two intertwined love stories between Orpheus and Eurydice, and the gods Hades and Persephone. When the story begins Hades and Persephone are misaligned in their relationship which has consequences for the mortal world. In this discord Orpheus and Eurydice fall in love and then are faced with having to make choices based on love or survival. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Persephone?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: She’s a complex character with many layers to her. At face value she’s fun and charismatic but she has so much more to her. She quite literally holds light and darkness within her and must wade through the complexity that comes with it. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This tour of HADESTOWN began in October of last year. You’ve been with the company since. Are you still discovering nuances of the character?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: Of course. We’re playing gods. And by nature, there are endless possibilities.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s your favorite aspect of tour life?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: Getting to meet people from all over the US. Getting to talk to audiences and schools. And of course, the food! We’ve just come from Dallas and of course I had to try some Texan BBQ and it’s everything I thought it would be!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of touring…any plans to tour The Parthenon while HADESTOWN sets up shop in Nashville? After all, we are the Athens of the South!

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: It’s definitely on my list!

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH NICKOLAUS COLÓN, HADES IN HADESTOWN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How familiar were you with the story of Hades and Persephone prior to taking on the role of Hades of the current tour of HADESTOWN?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: Besides what I’ve seen of Hades depicted in movies and shows I hadn’t really had the exposure to the proper myths. I wish I had sooner because they are incredible to read about.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In spite of connotations stirred simply by association of Hades and the underworld he rules, Hades, according to original mythos, is strong but rather passive and ultimately caring. What trait of Hades, as depicted in HADESTOWN, might you hope to mimic in your own life?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: The greatest gift I’ve gotten from Hades has been a boost to my confidence. Confidence is power. To be able to hold myself to my full height when for so many years I’ve lowered myself to make others feel safe around me has been such a gift. I’ve always been confident in my abilities but ever since I put on the suit I’ve started to stand taller off the stage.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Hades, you not only rule the underworld, but you’re also betrothed to Namisa Mdlalose Bizana’s Persephone. What is your favorite thing about sharing the stage with her?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: Namisa has been an absolute blessing of a scene partner. From the moment I met her and she asked if we could just take a breath together before our final callback, I knew she was my Persephone. Even on days when tour is hard, I can always count on her to be there with me on that stage and to make me laugh.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Do you have a favorite musical moment in the show, whether it be yours or one that you just enjoy witnessing as a member of the company night at night?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: Favorite musical moment for me would be during His Kiss, the Riot before I speak. The band and Fates watch as I slowly make my way around the stage to grab my stool and all the while they are fueling all the rage, fear, doubt, indecision, conflict that I am going through in that moment. Music is a powerful tool for storytelling.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences come away remembering long after their visit to HADESTOWN?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: I hope they leave and have a core memory of the time a room of 3000 people for 2 hours were able to put aside their differences and take the ride of truly investing in these two mythical love stories.

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The current tour of HADESTOWN plays TPAC’s Jackson Hall with five performances over the three day period of Friday, March 7 thru Sunday, March 9. Friday and Saturday evening performances are at 7:30pm with matinees Saturday at 2pm & Sunday at 1pm and a final Music City performance Sunday evening at 6:30pm. Ticket prices start at $48.30. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information. 

Not in Nashville? Be sure and check out HADESTOWN on Tour’s Official Site for upcoming cities including Johnson City, TN, Omaha, NE, Oxford, AL, Pensacola, FL, The Villages, FL, Columbia , SC and more as the tour continues. 

Among the many entertainment options coming to TPAC following HADESTOWN, TPAC’s HCA Healthcare/TriStar Heath Broadway at TPAC in partnership with Nissan continues next with the return of MAMMA MIA, on stage at TPAC’s Jackson Hall March 18-23. CLICK HERE for tickets. 

You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with cast of Nashville Rep’s ‘A Christmas Carol’, returning for a second holiday season at TPAC’s Polk Theater thru December 22

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When Nashville Repertory Theatre debuted Micah-Shane Brewer’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol last holiday season, I made the not-so difficult prediction in my review that the production was easily poised to become an instant tradition. Well, I was right. Returning to TPAC’s Polk Theater for a second year in a row, Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol is back. Last year I had the chance to chat with Brewer and the actors playing the Ghosts. This year for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q, I thought it would be fun to chat with a few more members of the cast including Matthew Carlton, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge, Eric Pasto-Crosby, who’s cast as Bob Cratchit and the dynamic duo of Denice Hicks and Galen Fott, returning again this year as The Fezziwigs. So get yourself a plateful of your favorite Christmas sweet treats and check out the conversations below.

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Rapid Fire 20Q with Cast Members of Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

Rapid Fire with Matthew Carlton, Scrooge in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I reviewed the premiere production of Nashville Repertory Theatre’s A Christmas Carol last holiday season, my headline foretold this retelling just might become a holiday tradition, and here you are, reprising your role of Scrooge in Micah-Shane Brewer’s presentation once again. How excited are you to step back into this role?

MATTHEW CARLTON: A Christmas Carol is just about my favorite story to share and I’ve played many of the characters. After taking on the mantle, Scrooge has become a wonderful, complex, challenging and most rewarding role.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Not only are you returning, but from the looks of things, so is the majority of the cast. What’s it like to be part of a retuning troupe of fellow actors?

MATTHEW CARLTON: Comfort and joy!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In my aforementioned review of the show’s previous run, I ranked you right alongside Sir Michael Caine among my favorite Scrooges. YES, I guess It’s become passé to mention Caine’s performance in The Muppet’s Christmas Carol, but I don’t care…it’s brilliant. SO, I gotta ask…yourself excluded, who’s your favorite Scrooge?

MATTHEW CARLTON: That is high and humbling company. I study every performance  on film, I can find. But I keep going back to Sims, for his fully rounded take. (Love Magoo though, too).

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Since this is a ‘Holiday Edition’ of my Rapid Fire interview feature, these last two remain questions are simply either/or. Which song do you think is played more at Christmas…Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas OR Wham’s This Christmas? 

MATTHEW CARLTON: AIWFC. BTW, former local, Travis Harmon, is Santa on her tour this year.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Mulled Wine or Spiked Hot Chocolate?

MATTHEW CARLTON: CHOCOLATE!

Rapid Fire with Eric Pasto-Crosby, Bob Cratchit in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Bob Cratchit, the role you’re reprising for a second year in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol? 

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: Bob Cratchit, in my opinion, and in this year versus last year, is more of the standard of parent that people want to be. He cares, even though he’s aware of the situation to a certain degree, but he still thinks the positive in everyone. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While the majority of the cast is returning, there’s a few new faces among the company, including Alicia Haymer, who’s playing Cratchit’s wife, Elizabeth. What’s the best aspect of having Alicia as your scene partner?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: One of the things I love about working with Alicia is her warmth and her acceptance of whatever you bring to the scene. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Dickens’ A Christmas Carol was written 181 years ago. Why is it still among the most beloved holiday stories?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY:  Not only have I had the privilege of two years in a row being in a production of a Christmas Carol, but I also like to read it every Christmas and I watch pretty much every movie version that I can find. I believe it’s a classic because it has lessons that we all still need to learn. And it has such a heartwarming story that you can possibly fix even some of the worst situations.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If you weren’t playing Cratchit, what other roles might you enjoy in A Christmas Carol?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: I would love to play some of the ghost, particularly Jacob Marley because in the full text, he has some amazing lines and I just think that would be fun. Also, I would get to fly. One day I’d like to be Scrooge.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a particular Christmas, or a Holiday tradition that you recall from your childhood?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: A holiday tradition that my family has done because my Dad was an emergency room doctor…We always had Christmas with my family on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day. I had Christmas Day to do whatever I wanted to do and we would do a little bit then. These days that works out great because we have Christmas with my family on Christmas Eve and then my wife’s family on Christmas Day and my family on Christmas Day. So my son basically ends up with three or four Christmases depending on how much family is in town and I think that’s lovely giving each family their own separate holiday.

Rapid Fire with Denice Hicks, Mrs. Fezziwig in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I reviewed last year’s production, I indicated that you and your co-star Galen Fott as The Fezziwigs “bubble and giggle” about. How would you describe Mrs. Fezziwig and the way you’re approaching the role?

DENICE HICKS: Mrs. Fezziwig is married to the most loving, kind, playful, and hard working man imaginable. They run a reputable business and serve their community and when it’s time to party they have the best time. She sees the good in everyone and is ever grateful for her good life. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of Galen Fott. How much fun are you having being back as his on-stage spouse?

DENICE HICKS: Galen IS Mr. Fezziwig to me! Kind, playful, creative and oh so talented. I feel very fortunate to be working next to him again. Last summer we played brother and sister in As You Like It and now we get to be married again. Pure joy. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I chatted with Matthew Carlton, your show’s Scrooge, I mentioned my favorite A Christmas Carol film adaptation…The Muppets. A highlight of that version is Fozzie and his Mom as The Fozziwigs. Do you have a favorite film version of A Christmas Carol yourself?

DENICE HICKS: I love Alastair Sim as Scrooge in the 1951 film, but Albert Finney in the 1970 musical is my heart’s favorite. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For your last two questions, a little Holliday-themed THIS or THAT…Which do you like better, Peppermint Bark OR Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes?

DENICE HICKS: I could eat a whole pound of peppermint bark! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A Charlie Brown Christmas OR How The Grinch Stole Christmas?

DENICE HICKS: Hearing Boris Karloff reading The Grinch is a must for every Christmas, as is hearing David Sedaris reading The Santaland Diaries.

Rapid Fire with Galen Fottt, Mr. Fezziwig in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How would you describe Mr. Fezziwig, the character you play in A Christmas Carol?

GALEN FOTT: Well, Dickens describes him physically as “an old gentleman in a Welch wig”, a “Welch wig” actually being a woolen cap. I’m definitely one year closer to being an “old gentleman” than I was last year! But I would add that Fezziwig is jovial, high-spirited, generous, and big-hearted. I think he’s there to serve as a good example of how a man might behave towards his fellow men, an example that Scrooge unfortunately fails to follow as he moves through life.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to Mr. Fezziwig, you also are seen throughout the show during the caroling interludes. To that end, the show is peppered with a mix of Old English Carols and a few new, but perfectly periodesque tunes written especially for this retelling. Of the musical moments, do you have a particular favorite song or piece of lyrics?

GALEN FOTT: Well, although I don’t sing it, I love the little blessing that the Cratchits sing, which sounds for all the world like an old traditional tune, but which was actually written by Micah-Shane! Of what I get to sing and play, probably Greensleeves is my fave.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I chatted with your Fezziwig wife, Denice Hicks, I asked her about sharing the stage with you, so turnabout is fair play…what’s it like having Denice as a scene partner in this show?

GALEN FOTT: This is my sixth opportunity to work with the incomparable Denice Hicks, if you count her one-night-only appearance as our guest “Professor Willard” in the Rep’s Our Town. We also just played the two sibling Dukes in Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s As You Like It. Denice is eternally “in the moment” onstage, always listening, and able to adjust her performance to any unexpected nuances that might occur. She’s the best, and a real Nashville theatrical treasure.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s one item you hope you never receive as a gift again?

GALEN FOTT: Nothing is coming to mind as far as a bad present I personally have received. But as a father, I must take this opportunity to talk about Slimecano. This was a Hot Wheels playset, and truly one of the worst toys ever made. It was a bunch of plastic pieces that snapped together haphazardly to create a sort of obstacle course for Hot Wheels. The major attraction was a plastic volcano that would frequently erupt with an orange slime that gummed up your Hot Wheels and permanently stained everything it came in contact with. The Amazon page for Slimecano was a masterpiece of unintentional comedy, full of people’s furious complaints about the toy. The phrase “Bah Humbug” could have been invented for Slimecano.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Long after Scrooge sees the error of his ways and audiences return to their warm homes after seeing A Christmas Carol, what’s something you think they’ll remember from this production of the holiday classic?

GALEN FOTT: I’m very proud of this production. I think Micah-Shane did a wonderful job of preserving the heart of Dickens’ tale while translating it into the medium of theatre. It’s faithful in all the best ways. There’s plenty of theatre magic in our production; I mean, people fly across the stage! But in the end, I think people will remember exactly what Dickens intended them to. His message of generosity and compassion and empathy will stay in their minds long after the curtain comes down.

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Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol runs thru December 22 with matinee performances Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm and evening performances at 7:30pm, with an additional Thursday evening performance December 19. Tickets range in price from $58.50 to $96. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets or for more information.

As always, check out Nashville Rep online and follow them on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram.

If you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with Director Jef Ellis and Cast of ‘Beautiful: the Carole King Musical’; at Center for the Arts in Murfreesboro November 8-24

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When I heard that Jef Ellis was directing BEAUTIFUL: The CAROLE KING MUSICAL Nov. 8-24 at Center for the Arts (110 West College Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37130), I knew I wanted to chat with Ellis and members of his cast for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature. Having seen the National Tour of the show back in 2017, and being somewhat familiar with Carole King’s contributions to the world of music, thanks to my favorite Aunt, I was truly drawn in from the start. Not only is the music one of those “soundtracks of our lives” as the saying goes, but the story is actually interesting.

Obvious reasons aside, I also knew I wanted to feature Ellis and company because just as King has made innumerable contributions to music, Ellis is himself legendary within the Tennessee theatre community. With the announcement that Ellis was helming the project, came the news that this will be the last time Ellis directs a show. After devoting his life and life’s work to lifting up the Middle Tennessee theatre community as a director, critic and all-round patron saint of the performing arts, Ellis has recently made the difficult decision to step away from active duty within the theatre world to focus some much-deserved attention on himself and his health. In light of that news, I wanted to feature Ellis and the cast of BEAUTIFUL for my latest Rapid Fire 20Q. What follows are those conversations.

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Rapid Fire 20Q with director and cast of BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

Rapid Fire with BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL director, Jef Ellis

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did directing BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL come about?

JEF ELLIS: I have to give credit to my friend Allison Hall (who was my musical director for both SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN and for LITTLE WOMEN), who mentioned in the course of a conversation that Center for the Arts had announced their 2024 season and if I had any desire to direct again. I really had no plans to direct anything at that time, but when I saw BEAUTIFUL on their season, I knew I would throw my hat in the ring. It’s probably my favorite of all the so-called “jukebox musicals” due to my deep respect for Carole King and my love, in particular, for her Tapestry album.

 JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s your earliest memory of truly grasping what an iconic songwriter Carole King is?

JEF ELLIS: When I turned 13, my big sister Charlotte gave me Tapestry for my birthday – it was my first-ever album (heretofore I had only owned 45s) and I played it all the time. It remains my favorite album of all-time and cemented my fanatical love of everything written by Carole King. In fact, when I was a senior in high school, I wrote a musical based on her 1974 album Wrap Around Joy, which has never been produced (did I mention my script was awful?). I’ve followed her career since I was 13 and as I have discovered more and more about her, I have realized how much there is to admire about Carole King.

One of my favorite Carole King-centric memories is when she was a Kennedy Center Honoree in 2023. During the telecast, you could see how absolutely thrilled she was to be there and how her delight was apparent when each performer came onstage to perform for her. I’ve never witnessed a Kennedy Center Honoree as exhilarating as her in the audience!

 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a scene or song in the musical that speaks to you on a personal level?

JEF ELLIS: There are two moments in the show that make me more emotional than others: (1) During the performance of You’ve Got A Friend, I am taken back to my childhood home, listening to that song all through high school, knowing that someday I would find my people who would elicit in my own heart in that spirit of camaraderie and belonging expressed in the song. (2) The climactic performance of Beautiful in the show, part of Carole’s 1971 concert at Carnegie Hall, is an electrifying moment that every audience member will share in each performance. Emily Summer’s performance is breathtaking.

And it’s not a song, but there is a scene backstage at Carnegie Hall that is heartbreakingly genuine and never fails to land in my heart – Ross Canales delivers an emotional wallop you’ll think about for days to come.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As he is with most productions at Center for the Arts’ Royce Phillips is music director. How has working with Royce been during the rehearsal process for BEAUTIFUL?

JEF ELLIS: Royce and I previously worked together on THE SECRET GARDEN, so even before I submitted my proposal to direct BEAUTIFUL, he was the first person I asked to join my production team. I knew he would be respectful of Carole and her music, and of Gerry Goffin, Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann and he would honor their legacies and the legacies of all the tremendous musical performers to whom we pay tribute in the show. Royce is a great collaborator and he helps every performer achieve their very best, which is our goal in bringing BEAUTIFUL to life.      

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with three of your lead actors, Emily Summers, Kelly Cline and Ross Canales. What can you tell me about these three talented individuals?

JEF ELLIS: I first saw Emily in Circle Players’ IF/THEN and was gobsmacked by her talent and her unerring ability to be totally authentic and believable onstage. Subsequently, I’ve seen her take on other characters with the same intensity. I think I knew she should play Carole King a long time ago and she provides the very heart of our production. I am honored to direct her in my final show.

Kelly walked into auditions and performed her song and Royce and I looked at each other and said, “I think we have our Cynthia!” She has so much stage presence and absolutely commands you to watch her – and she is such a lovely presence in any room, with so much grace radiating from her. She has a perfectly droll sense of humor and her comic timing is impeccable.

I first saw Ross earlier this year in IS Productions’ CLOSER and I was impressed by his ability to play a challenging character with such focus (at that first introduction, I was seating maybe a foot away from him in his initial appearance onstage) and such an amazing range. When he came in to claim the role of Gerry Goffin, he possessed everything necessary to bring Gerry to life with a complete understanding of his character’s dramatic arc. He also possesses that indefinable quality all actors strive for: you believe everything he says onstage.

Rapid Fire with Kelly Cline, Cynthia Weil in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Cynthia Weil to you?

KELLY CLINE: Confident. Timeless. Sharp-Witted. Loyal friend. I feel so honored to have the opportunity to portray such a strong, confident character who was such a pioneer for women in the music industry. The songs she wrote in partnership with her husband, Barry Mann, have shaped our American Songbook. What a legacy she’s left us all. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This show marks director Jef Ellis’ self-proclaimed ’Swan Song’ as a director after decades of not only presenting memorable theatrical productions but of course also covering theatre as a critic. Were you aware of Jef’s status in the theatrical community prior to auditioning? AND…What’s been the most beautiful aspect of working with Jef during BEAUTIFUL?

KELLY CLINE: Prior to auditioning I didn’t know Jef, but quickly learned about him as I was preparing to audition. What an incredible opportunity to be cast by him – especially in a show that is the grand finale to such a fantastic career. I’m truly honored. Jef is a passionate director – what a gift it is to be in the room with someone who cares so deeply about creating beautiful work onstage. He encourages us to remember the magic of theatre, and how transformative and transportive the craft is. In addition, Jef challenges you as the actor to continue to find instincts, intentionality, and aspects of your character throughout the rehearsal process. I’ve loved working with him!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A bit of a subplot of BEAUTIFUL presents the initial competitive nature of Carole King’s relationship with Cynthia Weil. In real life, as in the show, their relationship eventually morphed into a close friendship. To that end, how is Emily Summers, this production’s Carole King, as a scene partner?

KELLY CLINE: Oh my word! How long do you have? What a talent. I count myself so lucky to share the stage with Emily. The scenes we have together are some of my favorites in the entire show. She’s incredibly generous as a scene partner – what she brings to every moment is so natural and authentic. There’s such an ease in doing scenes with her. Additionally, I think the friendship our characters develop onstage has a lot to do with the friendship we’ve been able to cultivate off the stage. If I ever get the opportunity to work with her again, I’d say “Yes” in a heartbeat! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I saw the National Tour of BEAUTIFUL a few years back, I was surprised my favorite Cynthia Weil song, I’m Gonna Be Strong isn’t part of the show (of course it’s NOT the Cynthia Weil story per se, but still). The song, originally recorded by Frankie Laine in 1963, but familiar to me because of Cyndi Lauper’s 1980 cover. While preparing to portray Cynthia Weil, have you discovered any songs she wrote that you particularly enjoy?

KELLY CLINE: Dolly Parton’s Here You Come Again is a song I grew up listening to, but I had no idea Cynthia Weil had a hand in writing it! That was a fun discovery and connection point. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This show is jam-packed with not only tunes written by King and Weil, but a number of other hits from 60s/early 70s era. Is there a musical moment, whether it be yours or that of one of your co-stars that you particularly enjoy?

KELLY CLINE: Oh goodness, forgive me but I can’t pick just one! Every time our amazingly, talented ensemble sings You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling I have to stop and take it in. They do this timeless song justice and are just so fun to listen to– I think Barry and Cynthia would be proud. When Aaron Johnson (our Barry Mann) sings We Gotta Get Out of This Place it’s going to tear the roof off the theatre. Aaron makes rock n’ roll look easy and has one of the most sensational voices. Lastly, You’ve Got a Friend will forever be one of my favorite moments in the show. This song is all heart and I love sharing it with Emily and Aaron. It’s a moment I look forward to every time we do the show.

Rapid Fire with Ross Canales, Jerry Goffin in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Before seeing the show, is there anything audiences might need to know about Gerry Goffin, the role you play in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL?

ROSS CANALES: Gerry Goffin is a lovable, yet complicated, and troubled individual. All he wants is to get the most out of his life and to seize opportunities as they come. He unfortunately has a hard time maintaining a good moral compass in his pursuit of life fulfillment. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Alongside Carole King, Gerry Goffin wrote some of the most beautiful songs of their era. Do you have a favorite that you get to sing alongside your Carole, Emily Summers?

ROSS CANALES: One of my favorites from the show is Some Kind of Wonderful. In the show Gerry and Carole only sing part of the song, but they sing it in a very heartfelt part of the show. It is sung as a conversation between two lovers that finishes with beautiful harmonies. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Gerry, you’re tasked with some of the show’s more dramatic moments. How do you mentally prepare for these scenes and what helps you come back out of them to a more peaceful mindset?

ROSS CANALES: Gerry definitely has some dark places he reaches in his life. Preparing for those moments, I tend to need silent reflection of prior events in my life that can bring out similar emotions. I try to focus on my senses in those moments. What I heard, what it physically felt like, what I might have smelled, or saw in the moment. The more I can feel those senses again, the better I can portray those emotions and connect to the audience. Coming out of it is easy when you have such an amazing, fun, and supportive cast that can make you smile. All the inside jokes and laughs you have during the rehearsal process carry over in the performances and create easy avenues to make lighthearted jokes when they are needed. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: BEAUTIFUL marks Jef Ellis’ self-announced final directorial effort. What do you admire most about Jef’s directing style?

ROSS CANALES: With Jef being one of the biggest theater lovers I know and a critic for decades he has a unique perspective of where a show could be lacking. Being able to identify those missing elements early gives him the ability to change what is needed. That could be something as small as where actors are placed on stage, to an emotional feel of a scene. An average theater goer might not be able to identify those elements, but they can feel the difference between a performance that has taken care of the lack and ones that haven’t. I admire Jef’s ability to spot those elements and find a change to make the performance better. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Carole King has always recognized the importance of Gerry Goffin’s presence in her early life, both professionally and personally. Is there someone who has been in your corner since the beginning and what does that sort of support mean to you?

ROSS CANALES: I took 10 years off of theater during college and started back in summer of 2022. My wife Zoe has been along for the ride since my comeback to theater. She has observed the commitment, hard work, and dedication it takes to be in a show. Although the time away from home is difficult, as most people in relationships can understand, the support she gives is truly heartwarming. I can’t express my gratitude for her understanding and love through the process. She keeps me grounded and gives me encouragement when rehearsals get tough. She means the world to me! I couldn’t follow my pursuit of acting without her. 

Rapid Fire with Emily Summers, Carole King in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You, like Carole King, are a singer/songwriter. Has that helped you tap into how you’re playing the famed songwriter in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL?

EMILY SUMMERS: Absolutely. I remember being sixteen with all that passion and drive, when all I wanted to do with my spare time was sit in my room with my guitar and write songs. There’s a moment in the show when Carole says, “When I hear a good song, I feel like someone understands me. […] I want to do that for people!” I feel that line deeply.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Continuing on that built-in kinship with Carole, is there a scene to which you particularly relate?

EMILY SUMMERS: Without giving away any spoilers, there’s a scene in act two in which Carole’s heart is especially broken. She goes to the piano and sings a verse of an old song, with lyrics that are fitting and poignant for the pain she’s feeling. There’s a real catharsis that comes from putting all your emotion into a song like that. I’m always moved by that scene, and I pull emotion from similar moments of heartbreak I’ve experienced in my own life.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Does portraying a real-life person, as opposed to a fully fictional character influence your performance?

EMILY SUMMERS: It’s definitely a challenge. I want to honor Carole in my performance and avoid putting too much of my own spin on the character. Typically when I have trouble connecting with part of a script, I step back and ask myself, “How would I say this in the context of my real life?” This time, I’m watching interviews, studying her cadence and her mannerisms, and asking myself, “How might Carole say this in the context of her life?”

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of icons, there’s been much buzz about the Middle Tennessee theatre community surrounding the fact that this show will mark Jef Ellis’ final directorial effort. How has your experience with Jef as a director been thus far?

EMILY SUMMERS: It has been a joyful experience! Jef has so much passion, and he’s putting his whole heart into this show. That’s motivating, not only because I want him to be proud of his directorial swan song but also because he is so endeared toward this story and this music, and that sentiment is contagious. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take with them after seeing BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL?

EMILY SUMMERS: By the end of the show, audiences undoubtedly will have learned something about Carole’s life and the story of how she became the legend she is. And while that story is moving and important, more than that, I hope audiences leave with a new appreciation for who she is. I hope my performance does justice to her heart, her humility, and the guts it must have taken to achieve so much, at such a young age, as a woman in an industry ruled by men. 

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BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL opens at Center for the Arts on Friday, November 7 and continues weekends through Sunday, November 24. Friday and Saturday evening performances are at 7:30p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2p.m. Tickets are $22 for Adults ($20 for Seniors/Military/Students/Children). CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. To follow Center for the Arts, check them out at their Official Site or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, follow us on Facebook, Insta and X.

Rapid Fire Q&A With Stars of The Other Me Theater Company’s ‘Visiting Mr. Green’; Opening Thursday, November 7 at Playhouse 615

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A few months ago I attended a performance of a play presented by The Other Me Theater Company, the show served as a relaunch of sorts for the theatre company whose mission as their site suggests, is to present thought-provoking theater performances. With their latest production, playwright Jeff Baron’s NYC Drama League-nominated Visiting Mr. Green, The Other Me Theatre Company appears to be once again rising to the challenge. With Bowd Beal as director, Visiting Mr. Green opens Thursday, November 7 at Playhouse 615 (11920 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122) and continuing through Saturday, November 16. A two-person dramatic work examining the commonalities we share in spite of our initial perceived differences, Visiting Mr. Green features Bryan Kratoska and RJ Comer As the two actors readied for opening night, I recently had the chance to chat with them for the latest in my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire Q&A. What follows are those conversations.

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Rapid Fire Q&A with the stars of The Other Me Theater Company’s Visiting Mr. Green

Rapid Fire with Bryan Kratoska, Ross Gardiner in Visiting Mr. Green

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Ross Gardiner, the character you play in Visiting Mr. Green?

BRYAN KRATOSKA: Ross is a young man learning to slow down and appreciate others, along with learning to be okay with himself along the way.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While I had heard of the play, I gotta be honest, I was mostly unfamiliar with it prior to doing a little research in preparation of chatting with you and your costar. From what I’ve ascertained, in the broadest sense possible, it seems to be somewhere between Tuesdays with Morrie and The Odd Couple. Is that a fair assessment? AND…How might you more accurately describe what transpires during the play?

BRYAN KRATOSKA: While I don’t know Tuesdays With Morrie, I do know The Odd Couple. I would say it’s within reason to say this show is close/adjacent to The Odd Couple. This is a story of two men learning to live with both each other, and to learn to live with themselves and/or their mistakes.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to be part of this production?

BRYAN KRATOSKA: I assistant directed Bowd Beal last year around this time in A Tuna Christmas over at Pull-Tight Players. He did a wonderful job and was a lot of fun to work with and learn from on my end. So when he called and asked if I would like to read the part with RJ, I had to at least give it a shot, and I am glad I did.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a line or a scene in the show that you particularly look forward to each time it comes up in the script?

BRYAN KRATOSKA: Act 2 Scene 1. It’s tough, and I can’t say more than that without spoilers!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As mentioned, Bowd Beal is the show’s director. While I’ve known of him for a while, it was only recently that we met when he starred in The Other Me Theatre Company’s most recent production, The Sunset Limited. What’s been your favorite aspect of exploring these characters under Beal’s direction?

BRYAN KRATOSKA: Bowd is great at developing characters. Anyone who had the chance to see him and Chad Stem in A Tuna Christmas would know that. So combining his creative mind when it comes to building characters and the fact that he has played Ross in the past, it’s led to many in-depth conversations regarding Ross and this world. He’s also pushed me outside of my own box in a lot of ways. I typically act in musicals, so this has been a real treat to take part in and play/build Ross under his direction.

Rapid Fire with RJ Comer, Mr. Green in Visiting Mr. Green

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In researching to chat with you and your co-star, I discovered this play has not only been around since 1996, it has played in more than 50 countries world-wide. In spite of that popularity, the last time a Tennessee audience was privy to a production, was nearly fifteen years ago when a company just outside Memphis presented it. That said, The Other Me Theater Company’s presentation will undoubtedly mark many audience members’ introduction to the piece. Does being part of a show that is largely unfamiliar to the majority of its audience lend a certain freedom to the way you present the character and make it your own?

RJ COMER:  First, thank you for your interest in our production of Visiting Mr. Green and for your editorial support for live theater in this area. When it comes to playing Mr. Green, the long shadow on any actor is Eli Wallach who originated the role. But I approach my responsibility as an actor the same whether the part (or the play) is new to the audience or is very familiar to them. My job, as an actor and interpretive artist, is to find the truth of the character as revealed in the script, consistent with the director’s vision, and inhabit that truth in every way. So no, doing a part or play that is unfamiliar to an audience is no more liberating than doing one they’ve seen many times. I will say this though: it is more fulfilling, more fun, and I think more worthwhile. Live theater is a unique and powerful way to communicate and illuminate through art. So I applaud any company that produces work that middle TN audiences have not seen before. I’m equally excited about Franklin Theatrical Fellowship’s upcoming production of Goodnight Oscar (the first production of this Tony-winner since it left Broadway) and was super pleased to see Bradley Moore bring the world premiere of Lithium and Xanax to this market at The Darkhorse.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I mentioned when I chatted with Bryan, I recently saw your director Bowd Beal appear onstage in The Other Me Theatre Company’s The Sunset Limited. That production marking the theatre company’s reemergence after a few years. How excited are you to be part of the rebirth of this thought-provoking theatre company?

RJ COMER: I’m stoked! I’m always excited to contribute to any company (new or established, professional or community) that seeks to elevate the offerings beyond the familiar, the safe, and the silly. Make no mistake, Mr. Green is full of LOL moments as well as charming and dramatic surprises – it isn’t an interpretive think-piece – but it transcends the identities and circumstances of the characters to address universally applicable questions about love, family, and identity. Yeah, I’m very pleased to be performing for a company committed to that kind of work.        

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I understand Bowd is not only directing, but also serves as the set designer for Visiting Mr. Green. Is there a detail in the set that you enjoy that you hope the audience might take note of?

RJ COMER: Our director, Bowd Beal, designed and built the set. It’s a typical middle-class apartment in New York, now a little run down, dim, and messy from neglect. But there are two seemingly inconsequential moments when more light appears. I hope the audience spots and appreciates the metaphor of the light in those moments. After all, this is a play about opening one’s heart, and I love it when the set in small ways does more than merely frame the action, but also helps tell the story in subtle ways.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In 2018, two decades after Visiting Mr. Green’s debut, playwright Jeff Baron presented a sequel, So This is My Family: Mr. Green Part 2. IF The Other Me were to take on this sequel in the future, would you consider revisiting the role?

RJ COMER: Ha! Well, that depends on two things: first, whether I like the script – which I haven’t read; and second, whether our production of Visiting Mr. Green attracts and wins the hearts of this audience. I just encourage everyone to come to see this play. Then, if they like it as much as I think they will, we can talk about doing the sequel.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences will take with them long after Visiting Mr. Green?

RJ COMER: I hope the audience will be mindful that while strongly held beliefs and convictions provide structure and certainty – thereby providing security and comfort in an uncertain world – they can also lead to absurd and tragic results when not tempered by love. Love allows us to maintain the integrity of our beliefs while making room in our hearts for those who may not share them.   

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The Other Me Theater Company’s Visiting Mr. Green debuts at Playhouse 615 with 7:30pm performances Thursdays-Saturdays November 7-9 & 14-16 and a 2:30pm matinee midway through the run on Sunday, November 10. Tickets are General Admission $17/Adults and $15/Seniors. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. To keep up with what’s next as The Other Me Theater Company continues to emerge as one of the area’s theaters to watch, check them out at their Official Site where you can Subscribe to their email list for future updates. You can also follow them Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, follow us on Facebook, Insta and X.

Rapid Fire 20Q with director and cast of Women In Theatre Nashville’s production of ‘What the Constitution Means to Me’; on stage at Darkhorse Theatre November 8-16

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Founded just last year, Women in Theatre Nashville has quickly gained momentum as a much-needed outlet presenting theatre that showcases important stories by and about and concerning women as well as offering Master Classes lead by some of Nashville’s most prominent and respected female members of Tennessee theatre community. WIT’s Board President, Stephanie Dillard reached out me to see if I’d be interested in chatting with the director and cast of their upcoming November 8-16 presentation of playwright Heidi Schreck’s engaging, entertaining and educational What the Constitution Means to Me, it was of course an immediate yes. Not only because I absolutely love this piece after having seen the National Tour back in 2022, but also because I knew Abby Waddoups was helming the production as the show’s director. The cast is lead by activist and actress Lindsey Patrick-Wright in the lead role, alongside her child, Pippy Patrick-Wesson as the young debater and features Thomas Wehby, who recently returned to Middle Tennessee after living in Washington D.C. What follows are my conversations with them all.

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Rapid Fire 20Q with director and cast of WIT’s What the Constitution Means to Me

Rapid Fire with What the Constitution Means to Me director, Abby Waddoups

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Before we get into talking about the show, What does Women In Theatre Nashville mean to you?

ABBY WADDOUPS: This has been a wonderful experience working with WIT! “Women in Theatre was founded in 2023 to showcase the incredible talent, stories and voices of women in the performing arts.” Their mission is to “…empower women of all ages and backgrounds, and experience levels to write, direct, perform, and collaborate in a dynamic and supportive environment” Stephanie and the rest of the board and production crew are doing just that. They have been very supportive through this whole process and completed every little ask. I feel like my whole life has been spent doing male dominated activities and working in industries at the time period when I did them; such as skateboarding, playing guitar, being in bands, riding a motorcycle, going to Film School, being a theatre tech in set construction specifically, etc. I have worked as a stage hand and heard completely inappropriate and sexist comments from the tech guys who spend all their time on the road and seem to have lost touch with reality. A lot has changed over the years in most of the traditional male dominated areas, but it is nice for WIT to provide a platform and outlet for more women to feel encouraged and safe to pursue theatre, and to tell their stories. Being a woman who does anything out of the ordinary makes you a role model of sorts. It  inspires young girls and women to see a woman in these roles and encourages them to step out and try something they’ve always wanted to do. This helps to change the mind of everyone around you to be more accepting of women in those roles.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to direct What the Constitution Means to Me?

ABBY WADDOUPS: WIT was advertising a need for directors last season and I interviewed with them then. Fast forward a few months ago and Stephanie contacted me hoping I was available for this November time frame. They asked if I had any scripts in mind, but ultimately sent me two scripts to read. Within a few pages I knew this was the show to do!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I saw you recently I shared with you that I had seen the Nation Tour of What the Constitution Means to Me a couple years ago. I remember the staging being pretty straight-forward. To that end, what’s been the biggest challenge as the show’s director?

ABBY WADDOUPS: Getting the right actors in place for this very small cast was a high priority in order to have nuances and keep an audience captive. It is so well written, so I want it to be true to the work. It’s very different doing a piece synonymous with the writer being the original actor and then having an actor portray adult Heidi, young Heidi, and then themselves for the debate. Adding Levels and making sure the light hearted moments stay light hearted amongst the very serious topics is a challenge. Pacing is very important, too. Because it is such a small cast, using the full stage is considered to connect with all sides of the audience.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: WIT’s What the Constitution Means to Me previews one day after the Presidential Election, and Opens just days after. Has that fact loomed large as you and the cast prepare for the show? 

ABBY WADDOUPS: We don’t know if we will be celebrating, or not, come opening. Obviously the audience and the tone of the show will be affected with the outcome of the election if we are scared of losing more of our rights. I also completely trust our lead actors to uphold the show’s integrity while keeping it relevant in our time period. At the end of the debate in Act II of the show, the audience judges to keep or abolish the constitution. During the run statistically Keep reigned over Abolish, so we wonder how might the turmoil surrounding this specific election change that?

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with your cast, so before I do that, Can you describe each of your three actors using one word for each of them?

ABBY WADDOUPS:

Lindsey- tenacious 

Thomas- skilled 

Pippy- a fighter 

Rapid Fire with What the Constitution Means to Me lead, Lindsey Patrick-Wright

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to star in WIT’s What the Constitution Means to Me?

LINDSEY PATRICK-WRIGHT: I’ve been following WIT since their exciting inception. I think they are such an important voice here in Middle Tennessee theater so when I saw that THIS play was their next show, I absolutely HAD to audition. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How familiar were you with the piece prior to taking on the role? 

LINDSEY PATRICK-WRIGHT: I saw the show when it came to TPAC and revisited it before the audition by watching the version available online starring the playwright, Heidi Schreck. I feel like every time I watched and even now, rehearsing it, every single time I open myself up to this work, I learn something new about our country and this document: sometimes disappointing, sometimes inspiring. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s the biggest challenge/reward of presenting a character based on someone’s actual experiences?

LINDSEY PATRICK-WRIGHT: Knowing that Heidi Schreck poured her entire life into this play makes me want to do her proud with my performance. But also, when I get into her stories, her joy, her outrage, and her HOPE, it feels just as personal to myself. It feels as if this play was written for me for this time. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: It’s not often an actress has the chance to play a role that seems so tailor-made, but as a real-life advocate and self-described “local loudmouth at school board meetings” (God, I love that descriptor from your bio) you find yourself addressing many of the themes presented in the show in your daily life. So it seems you’re perfectly cast. How important is this show to you?

LINDSEY PATRICK-WRIGHT: I don’t want to be too hyperbolic here, but this play is everything to me right now. I think it’s message is so important, that even though I knew it would limit my ability to volunteer during an incredibly important time in our state’s and nation’s history, but when an opportunity like this come along, you have to tip your hat at the Universe and say “well played”. And I’m happy to report that I’m still volunteering every free moment I have to get compassionate women elected to the TN House, TN Senate, US congress and Senate and of course, our first female president of the United States! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with your child, Pip, who appears as a young debater in the show. 1) How excited are you to share the stage with them? AND 2) What advice have you offered Pippy as far as acting is concerned?

LINDSEY PATRICK-WRIGHT: 1) As a parent, you desperately want your child to be happy and safe. But there is always a part of you that hopes that, along that journey, maybe your interests overlap. I took a 20 year break from acting and it was Pippy’s new hobby: theatre that got me back in the game. So being able to share a stage with them is a dream come true. 2) Just as this role feels tailor-made for me, the debater feels tailor-made for Pippy, so they haven’t needed a lot of advice! Except maybe “slow down” especially when they are really fired up about what they are talking about, they speak at an impressive rate of speed – something I’ve gotten used to at home, but I want the audience to be able to digest their points and their performance. And of course, “have fun” something that has been easy for both of us with this great cast and crew.  

Rapid Fire with What the Constitution Means to Me young actor Pippy Patrick-Wesson

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Alright, I just gotta start by asking…What’s it like to have the cool Mom?

PIPPY PATRICK-WESSON: It’s super cool! I’m really proud of her for doing all this good for our community! Like, the school board video that went viral. I’m proud of her for going up there and speaking up.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do we need to know about your role in What the Constitution Means to Me?

PIPPY PATRICK-WESSON:  I am (somewhat) playing myself, a 14 year old who loves debate! I come out in Act Two to debate with Heidi/Mommy. Of course, It’s a little different since this debate is scripted.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While you’ve acted in school productions and a few children’s theatre shows, this marks your first time appearing on stage in a regional company’s show. What’s it been like thus far?

PIPPY PATRICK-WESSON: It’s been very fun!  It’s the first time I’ve been on stage with adults, so it’s been a little different from my previous work. Being onstage with my Mommy has helped me a lot. I love though that I feel like an equal peer in either group.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While this may be your first regional show, something tells me it’s not the first time you’ve debated with your co-star. Just between us…who usually wins a debate at home, You, or your Mom?

PIPPY PATRICK-WESSON: Honestly depends on the debate and what is at stake (but usually my mom). Sometimes we have to use Google to settle our debates…which usually means I look something up and find out I was wrong. 🙂

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Not gonna lie, I’m not exactly what you’d call a history buff, so admittedly, I knew very little about the Constitution before seeing the show during its National Tour a few years ago. What’s your favorite fun fact about the Constitution that you’ve learned during the process of preparing for the show?

PIPPY PATRICK-WESSON: Well, this did prompt me to investigate the last time an amendment was made to the constitution. I kind of assumed it had been amended relatively recently, but it turns out, it was 1992, before that 1971!

Rapid Fire with What the Constitution Means to Me actor, Thomas Wehby

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Your bio mentions Political Science and improv, an interesting skillset and variety of interests. indeed. I’m guessing that translates to this show being the best of both worlds?

Rapid Fire with What the Constitution Means to Me’s Thomas Wehby

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Your bio mentions Political Science and improv, an interesting skillset and variety of interests. indeed. I’m guessing that translates to this show being the best of both worlds?

THOMAS WEHBY: Absolutely! When I decided to pursue a BA in Political Science and Theatre, I didn’t necessarily see them as a natural pairing—except maybe in a tongue-in-cheek sense, as in “the drama and dark comedy that is American politics.” Over time, though, I’ve realized that both fields center on understanding different perspectives and the power of storytelling. In politics, my favorite moments were knocking on doors and giving voters the space to speak their minds and be heard. In theatre and improv, my favorite parts have been both telling scripted, impactful stories that hopefully invoke a desire for change and also improvising moments that help people laugh at some of the more challenging parts of the political news cycle, such as with my presidential impressions. So, doing What the Constitution Means to Me, feels amazing, as it brings these interests together in a more structured way to tell such an important and timely story.

 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to be part of WIT’s production of What the Constitution Means to Me?

THOMAS WEHBY: After moving back to Middle Tennessee from Washington, DC, I felt it was time to get back on stage. I came across a casting call for What the Constitution Means to Me on Facebook, and it immediately sparked my interest. A friend had seen the show and thought, knowing my interests, that I’d really connect with it. Reading WIT’s mission, I loved their vision and knew this would be a meaningful story to tell with a fantastic group of people. So, I decided to go for it and auditioned.

 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I saw What the Constitution Means to Me during it’s National Tour, the role of the Legionnaire provided some of the show’s most light-hearted moments, simply by his presence. As directed by Abby Waddoups, does the same hold true for your performance in the role?

THOMAS WEHBY: Yes, Abby has brought out some wonderful moments of levity in the role of the Legionnaire, and it definitely adds a unique presence to the story. I think audiences will appreciate the humor and subtle shifts that the character brings without taking away from the more serious themes. I won’t say too much, though—it’s one of those elements that’s best experienced live!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s been your favorite aspect of appearing alongside Lindsey and Pippy in this show thus far?

THOMAS WEHBY: My favorite aspect, beyond the positivity Lindsey and Pippy bring to the rehearsal room, has been how much I’ve learned from them. We’ve created a space where we’re comfortable discussing the show’s themes and how they resonate with election season. Their insights and openness have enriched my experience and deepened our connection as a cast- I really think it shows on stage.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences come away contemplating after having seen WIT’s presentation of What the Constitution Means to Me?

THOMAS WEHBY: I hope audiences leave reflecting on the personal connections we all have to the Constitution and how it impacts our daily lives. This show brings forward questions about rights, justice, and who the Constitution truly serves—ideas that are incredibly relevant right now. I’d love for people to come away asking themselves not only what the Constitution means to them personally, but also what it could mean for a more inclusive future. If our performance sparks even a small part of that reflection, I think we’ve accomplished something meaningful.

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WIT’s What the Constitution Means to Me debuts at Darkhorse Theatre (4610 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209) with an invited preview performance Wednesday, November 6 and opens to the public Friday, November 8. The Show runs weekends November 8-16 with shows Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30p.m., Thursday, November 14 at 7:30p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2:30p.m. On Sunday, November 10, the performance will be followed by brief lecture from Williamson County Democratic Party executive committee member and local attorney, Amanda L. Bradley speaking about recent changes to Tennessee laws and women’s rights. Bradley’s lecture will be followed by a Q&A with the audience. Tickets to all performances of What the Constitution Means to Me are $24. All seating is General Admission. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information. Be sure and check out WIT’s Official Site and follow them on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, follow us on Facebook, Insta and Twitter.

Rapid Fire 20Q With Cast of Playhouse 615’s ‘Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors’; onstage through November 3

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The cast of Playhouse 615’s ‘Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors’ (l to r: Jeremy James Carmichael, Robert Coles, Katie Fraley, Jonathon Joyner and Beth Henderson) on stage through November 3.

Following last weekends SOLD-OUT opening performances, Playhouse 615’s Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors is back this weekend and next, October 25-27 and November 1-3, to glamour audiences with a bloody hilarious reimagining of the Bram Stoker classic. After having seen the off-Broadway premiere just last year, Playhouse 615’s Ann Street Cavanagh quickly snagged the rights to present the Tennessee debut for this Halloween season. As the cast prepared for the remainder of the run, I had the chance to chat with each of them for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q.

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Rapid Fire 20Q with the entire cast of Playhouse 615’s Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors

Rapid Fire with Robert Coles, Mina and others in Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors

JHPENTERTAINMENT: First of all, your Mina and Dr. Van Helsing are absolute scene stealers. I honestly didn’t think I would enjoy you in these roles so much. What’s been the most challenging aspect of playing these two lovely ladies?

ROBERT COLES: Thank you! These roles have been so much fun to play. They’re so different and I’ve loved creating them. For me, they’re polar opposites. Mina is written as a horny misfit and Dr. Van Helsing is composed and serious. So, making the switch between these two (sometimes within a few seconds) is challenging. And, with them having such drastically different accents, one scene in particular where they have a full on conversation with each other is absolutely crazy! But, Ann and I worked closely on building the characters and how we wanted them to sound, their physicalities, and different traits to put into them to make them so different. Partner that with costumes and wigs, and they come together quite nicely!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Mina, you reminded me a bit of Bette Davis in Whatever Happened to Baby Jane, and I was there for it! What went into developing your characterization of that role?

ROBERT COLES: Oh, Mina! I just love her. She has tender moments where you really start to feel for her, then she does things so cooky and crazy that you’re back to, “Aww. Bless your heart…” For her, I just wanted to amp up the crazy and horny. I put a lot into her physical traits and how she walks, talks, and moves. Her laugh and grunts are also a favorite aspect of the character. This cast has been a dream to work with and they put up with all my crazy! Truly no two nights with Mina are the same. I feed so much off the audience’s energy, too!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Can we just talk about the oversized hair bow? I love that it just kept falling into your face and without missing a beat, you repositioned it and went on. Who’s idea what it to have you wear it?

ROBERT COLES: That bow is the bane of my existence, but I LOVE that the audience reacts to it so much! Ann always wanted that giant bow to be sitting on the side of my head, but you throw it on top of a wig and add in a gallon of sweat (seriously, we’re running marathons during this show!) and it just won’t stay on! My favorite moment during the show opening night was when I finally got so tired of it that I just threw it into the audience! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Ann Street-Kavanagh is directing Dracula. Recently, you’ve worked with her as a co-star during Sordid Lives, as playwright and cast member for Aunt Sally’s Wild Ride and now as director and cast member in Dracula. How does the fact that you both are as adept on stage as behind the scenes affect your working relationship?

ROBERT COLES: Ann is an actor’s director. She comes into rehearsals knowing exactly what she wants, but allows us to play with the scene and characters and make them our own. I love her passion for this show, and for directing. She was so funny during this process and so many of our little bits were straight from her zany brain! Fun Fact: I have actually directed Ann TWICE as well! I think we have a mutual respect for each other and our crafts and it really created a harmonious relationship. When you add in this incredible cast (I mean, come ON, I’m acting with Jeremy James Carmichael, Beth Henderson, Katie Fraley, and newcomer Jonny Joyner for goodness sakes!), magic happens. We’ve become a family… Truly. This is one show I don’t want to end. Thank you, Ann, for this opportunity. It’s blessed my life in so many ways.

Rapid Fire with Beth Henderson, Renfield and others in Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I mentioned after having seen opening night of Dracula, you, along with Robert Coles, steal every scene you’re in. Was absolutely going for it and pushing the boundaries of comedy something you were initially comfortable doing or did it take a bit of coaxing from your director Ann Street Cavanagh?

BETH HENDERSON: I was all in from the audition forward. When it comes to comedy, you’re more likely to have to reign me in than push me out there.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Thanks to Nick Cage’s recent Renfield film, I suspect more audience members might be a bit more familiar with the character. But your interpretation is anything but a carbon copy of latest big screen version. The distinct way in which your Renfield speaks gave me and several folks around me in the audience a serious case of the giggles. What went into presenting Renfield the way you do?

BETH HENDERSON: The script describes Renfield as someone with salivary issues. I think that was the key to finding the character for me. Once I figured out how to do a very slobbery cockney-like accent, the rest just fell in place. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to Renfield, you play Dr. Westfeldt. There’s a particularly fast-paced scene in which you play both, onstage at the same time. What’s your secret to keeping straight whose line you’re delivering and when?

BETH HENDERSON: Ha! Keeping the lines straight is the easy part of that scene. It’s the wig and pipe exchange while spinning that I will never perfect.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: One thing I noticed during the opening night performance was that the audience was laughing so hard there were instances we missed what I’m sure where some equally guffaw-inducing lines. To that end, how imports is audience reaction to the energy of the cast when performing comedy?

BETH HENDERSON: The audience reaction is everything! We had rehearsed the show so much that we weren’t even sure it was funny anymore. The laughter creates this energetic buzz that kind of gives you a high as an actor. 

Rapid Fire with Katie Fraley, Lucy and others in Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do we need to know about Lucy, one of the characters you play in Dracula?

KATIE FRALEY: Lucy is a woman ahead of her time. She is not only strong and courageous, but she is unwilling to hide her true self. Lucy is also fiercely devoted to her loved ones, especially her sister Mina, so much of her fighting spirit shines through in her relationships. She maintains her independence as best she can, even though the people around her have not quite caught up to her progressive ideas. Her father, for example, still views her as a frail future housewife who needs protection. Many of Dr. Westfeldt’s comments speak to the general attitude toward women during this time. One of the things Lucy craves the most is an intellectual equal who celebrates her free spirit. I think this is where some of the conflict appears for her in the story. Because her fiancé, Jonathan, is so timid and unsure, Dracula appears as the first bold personality she has encountered for ages. It makes sense why she is drawn to him. Ultimately, these forces pull Lucy in many different directions, but whatever happens, you can be sure that she will follow her heart and intuition authentically. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Jeremy was the first to break character on opening night. In that same vein (see what I did there?) During the rehearsals, who had you all laughing the most with their outlandish behavior?

KATIE FRALEY: Oh gosh, we couldn’t go two minutes in any rehearsal or show without cracking up one another. This is the funniest and most caring cast I have ever worked with. I have to say though, that Robby constantly makes me howl with laughter. We have such similar (and random) senses of humor that we’ll frequently make jokes at the same time or say what the other is thinking. One of my favorite things about him is that he is so quick-witted. He finds the joke in everything and presents it perfectly. His incredible comedic timing is evident both on and off stage. Any time he does an accent it sends the whole cast into a fit. I still have to keep myself from cracking when he says “wampire.” Robby is such a great physical comedian too and uses this to fully embody each character. It’s hard to keep quiet backstage because even during shows, he is doing something to make us all laugh. Every cast member has made me break character one time or another. Keeping a straight face is an impossible task.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to Lucy, you also play a couple other roles, including the carriage driver and the elderly housekeeper. For the most part, your characters are the “straight men” to the more outlandish comic antics of some of the others. What’s the most challenging aspect of playing it straight in such an uproarious comedy?

KATIE FRALEY: Honestly the hardest part about playing these other characters is the quick changes! But in terms of playing it straight, it is definitely challenging to present exposition without as much response from the audience. These other characters are often smaller parts meant to drive the plot, so they don’t get as much character development or as many of the killer comedic lines as the main characters we each play. In a farce like this the audience reactions really drive the energy, so it takes a lot more intentional effort to keep the pace steady when playing one of these peripheral characters.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with Jonathon Joyner, who plays Lucy’s love interest, Jonathan Harker. I still can’t believe this show marks his first time on stage in a theatrical production. How has he been as a scene partner?

KATIE FRALEY: If I were to watch this show for the first time as an audience member, I would have thought he had been doing theatre for years. He’s a natural. His instincts and character choices come so easily to him. More than anything, he has understood the teamwork element of theatre since day one. He gives such great energy as a scene partner and brings authenticity to each scene. I have always felt comfortable working our scenes. Any little tweak that needed to be made, usually because of different practices between film and stage, he adapted to quickly and with grace. I selfishly hope we have converted him to a stage actor! 

Rapid Fire with Jonathon Joyner, Harker and others in Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I just mentioned in my chat with your co-star, Katie, while you’ve previously focused on film work, this show marks your stage debut, not just your Playhouse 615 debut, but your first time ever in a theatrical production. What lead you to audition for this show?

JONATHON JOYNER: Yes! this is my first time ever on stage and I just want to thank Ann first and foremost for giving me the opportunity. I came by the audition through a mutual friend, Mick Grayson. He referred me to the audition that was open and I decided to take a chance. I have always been interested in the stage but have maintained my focus on film. I now know the benefits of both and the wonderful expression that you get to convey on the stage. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I saw you after the show on opening night, I shared with you my connection to the character of Harker, and I love that you’re playing a character who shares your first name (though spelled slightly different). Had you ever read the original book or seen any Dracula movies? AND…Did you realize there was a character that bore your first name? 

JONATHON JOYNER: I have not read the original book but I have seen many of the Dracula adaptations so I have been familiar with the story. Despite this I do not believe I had ever realized the connection in name, but I am so happy that I do now. I do believe I will go back and read the original work now!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of names, I love the fun name drops peppered throughout the script, including the ship being named the SS Stoker, a nod to Dracula author, Bram Stoker. Is there a scene or line in the show that you find particular amusing?

JONATHON JOYNER:  I think that one of my favorite scenes is the scene where I play a gravedigger and the character has this cockney accent, I find it particularly amusing because cockney has always been one of my favorite accents. I recently watched Legend with Tom Hardy where his character has a cockney accent and I always find it so humorous and engaging. The juxtaposition of standard received pronunciation with Jonathan Harker and the fun animated nature of cockney always brings me joy. There is also a line where I say “I want to introduce you to my cousins Mary and Shelly” a nod to the author of Frankenstein which I always always always love delivering.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Once bitten, your character undergoes a bit of a transformation. How much fun are you having vamping it up?

JONATHON JOYNER: The energy from the audience when coming out from the transformation is what makes it the most fun. Flipping to a complete opposite form allows me to loosen up on stage and enjoy the energy that is being thrown at me from the audience, I love it so much. It is almost like a release up to that point of my own personal energy being contained and an almost woosah type of moment once the transformation happens haha. 

Rapid Fire with Jeremy James Carmichael, Dracula in Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I interviewed you recently about your role in Aunt Sally’s Wild Ride, I asked you to describe your character in five words. You responded in the most cheekily arrogant way possible. Now you’re playing Dracula in an equally cheeky and arrogant way. So a two-parter for you: 1) How much fun are you having in this role? AND 2) Ever feel like you are being typecast? 😉

JEREMY JAMES CARMICHAEL: 1) Dracula is a blast to play, but it’s even more fun being supported by an incredible ensemble of hilarious and talented actors. I couldn’t be the Dracula you see in this show without the banter and trust I have with each of my co-stars. And Dracula changes from night to night depending on the energy of the audience, and how my scene partners feed me the lines; I’ve played him more petulant and melancholy at some shows, but hyper and more self-absorbed at others. The beauty of live theater! 2) Well gee, Jonathan (an actual line of mine in the show)… I like to think of it as excelling in one certain facet, or being able to demonstrate mastery in a particular trait. But yes, I do think I get type-cast a lot. When I look back at my work, I see many of the same characters: Billy Flynn, Conrad Birdie, Danny Zuko, Sam Carmichael. I hope audiences know that’s not me in real life; I’d consider myself fairly opposite of all those roles I play. But I wish I had their confidence and… cajones.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I attended the show opening night, the audience couldn’t stop laughing. I found myself wondering how you all keep it together, then, about an hour in, you broke character, attempting to stifle the giggles during a particularly hilarious scene opposite Robert Coles. During rehearsals, who had the hardest time keeping it together?

JEREMY JAMES CARMICHAEL: How dare you. But yes, breaking character happens to the best of us. Something magical happened the first night the five of us met for our table read; only two had known each other before, but we clicked and then bonded faster and harder than any cast I’ve worked with, and I’ve been doing this for 47 years. Our team is rock-solid, and our love for each other is palpable. When you have that trust, the show can skyrocket. I’ve told my scene partners I have no limits; lean into the comedy if the audience is eating it up. And sometimes jokes go farther than we’ve taken them before, and sometimes — yep. It’s too dang funny to keep inside. My four castmates are BRILLIANT. And so I constantly find myself lost in their performances and sometimes reacting, out of character. I’m only human.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Let’s talk about those vampire teeth. What’s the most challenging aspect of wearing fangs while trying to deliver your lines?

JEREMY JAMES CARMICHAEL: They hurt! But I think they’re kinda sexy so I always keep them in right after the show. I’m always hoping to get pulled over on my way home.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Why should folks come see Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors. AND After seeing Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors, what do you hope they come away thinking of long after those two mysterious blood spots fade on their necks?

JEREMY JAMES CARMICHAEL: The show is FUN. Sometimes are is provocative; sometimes it’s used as an agent for social justice or change. And sometimes it’s just damn fun. We’re in a heavy time in our nation and I think the escapism that theater provides is a real benefit. Trust me — you won’t be thinking about your problems for the 90 minutes you spend with us. I think audiences will leave happy, and sometimes, that’s the best you can ask for.

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Playhouse 615’s Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors continues with performances through November 3. At the time of this publication, Limited Tickets remain for the rest of the run with the exception of Saturday, October 26, which has SOLD OUT. Limited seating remains for October 25 & 27 and November 1-3. CLICK HERE to purchase, or contact the box office at 615.319.7031.

Next up at Playhouse 615, Joel Meriwether will direct Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) with performances December 6-22. WATCH THIS LINK for ticket info when it becomes available. For more on the show and to keep up with what’s next at Playhouse 615, check out their website or follow them on Facebook.

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