Center Theatre Group News & Blogs

Center Theatre Group's Block Party Continues with Opening of 'Citizen: An American Lyric'

Center Theatre Group — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 12:36:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S BLOCK PARTY CONTINUES AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE WITH OPENING OF THE FOUNTAIN THEATRE’S “CITIZEN: AN AMERICAN LYRIC” THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 30

Stage Adaptation of Claudia Rankine’s Acclaimed Book of Poetry Returns For 11 Performances Only

Center Theatre Group’s Block Party continues with the opening of The Fountain Theatre production of “Citizen: An American Lyric” this Sunday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kirk Douglas Theatre. Based on a book of poetry by Claudia Rankine, adapted for the stage by Fountain Co-Artistic Director Stephen Sachs and directed by Shirley Jo Finney, “Citizen: An American Lyric” will begin previews April 28 and continue for 11 performances only through May 7, 2017.

Block Party highlights some of the remarkable work being done in other, more intimate theatres throughout Los Angeles by fully producing three previously staged productions. The three productions receive the full support of Center Theatre Group and its staff in order to fund, stage and market each production. Block Party began with the Coeurage Theatre production of “Failure: A Love Story” April 14 through 23 and will continue with The Echo Theater Company’s production of “Dry Land” running May 12 through 21.

“Citizen: An American Lyric” fuses poetry, prose, movement, music and the video image in a provocative stage adaptation of Claudia Rankine’s internationally acclaimed book of poetry about everyday acts of racism in America. Of Rankine’s “Citizen,” The New Yorker wrote that it was “brilliant… [and] explores the kinds of injustice that thrive when the illusion of justice is perfected.” The New York Times wrote that “Rankine brilliantly pushes poetry’s forms to disarm readers and circumvent our carefully constructed defense mechanisms against the hint of possibly being racist ourselves.”

The cast of “Citizen: An American Lyric” includes Bernard K. Addison, Leith Burke, Tony Maggio, Monnae Michaell, Simone Missick and Lisa Pescia. Scenic and projection design is by Yee Eun Nam, costume design is by Naila Aladdin-Sanders, lighting design is by Pablo Santiago and original music and sound design is by Peter Bayne. Anastasia Coon is the movement director and Shawna Voragen is the production stage manager.

Audiences are also invited to engage in discussion with the “Citizen” cast and company following each performance during moderated Stage Talks. There will be no Stage Talk held on opening night.

“As we celebrate Center Theatre Group’s 50 years of creating theatre in Los Angeles, we want to turn the spotlight on some of the remarkable work being done on other stages,” said Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Michael Ritchie in discussing Block Party. “Coeurage Theatre, The Echo Theater and The Fountain Theatre, as well as others throughout L.A., regularly produce excellent, boundary-pushing work and we’re so glad they are sharing some of that work with us.”

Center Theatre Group received 76 submissions for Block Party from intimate theatre companies from North Hollywood to San Pedro, Topanga to Sierra Madre. With Block Party, Center Theatre Group hopes to strengthen relationships within the Los Angeles community, create additional avenues for the organization to become familiar with local playwrights, actors, directors and designers, and foster relationships between Center Theatre Group staff and the staff at theatre companies throughout Los Angeles.

Block Party receives major support from Aliza Karney Guren and Marc Guren with generous funding also provided by Joni and Miles Benickes. Center Theatre Group has a long history of pairing with local theatre companies including the Deaf West production of “Big River” which was produced at the Mark Taper Forum in 2002 and went on to Broadway before returning to the Ahmanson Theatre in 2005 as part of a national tour. More recently, Center Theatre Group partnered with Ebony Repertory Theatre for the remounting of “A Raisin in the Sun” (which played at the Douglas), 24th STreet Theatre’s “Walking the Tightrope” (also at the Douglas) and with other companies around the city for “The Behavior of Broadus” (Burglars of Hamm and Sacred Fools Theater Company) and “Birder” (The Road Theatre Company).

Center Theatre Group, one of the nation’s preeminent arts and cultural organizations, is Los Angeles’ leading nonprofit theatre company, programming seasons at the 736-seat Mark Taper Forum and 1600 to 2000-seat Ahmanson Theatre at The Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles, and the 317-seat Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City. In addition to presenting and producing the broadest range of theatrical entertainment in the country, Center Theatre Group is one of the nation’s leading producers of ambitious new works through commissions and world premiere productions and a leader in interactive community engagement and education programs that reach across generations, demographics and circumstance to serve Los Angeles.

Tickets for each production are available by calling (213) 628-2772, online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org, at the Center Theatre Group box office at the Ahmanson Theatre or at the Kirk Douglas Theatre box office two hours prior to performance. Tickets range from $25 – $70 (ticket prices are subject to change).

As an homage to Coeurage Theatre’s payment structure, the first preview performance of each production will be a pay-what-you-want performance. Pay-what-you-want gives patrons the opportunity to decide what their theatre experience was worth to them before, during or after the performance. The pay-what-you-want performance for “Citizen” will be on April 28 and “Dry Land” will be on May 12.

The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd. in Culver City, CA 90232. Ample free parking and restaurants are adjacent.

# # #

April 27, 2017

Center Theatre Group Announces 2017-2018 Season at the Kirk Douglas Theatre

Center Theatre Group — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0700

REVISED†

CENTER THEATRE GROUP ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE

Center Theatre Group’s 14th Season at the Douglas Features a World Premiere Comedy, a Pulitzer Finalist Drama, the West Coast Premiere of a Smash Hit Parody of a Mega-Hit Musical, Plus the Continuation of an Exciting New Tradition

Paul Rudnick’s “Big Night,” Gerard Alessandrini’s “Spamilton,” Quiara Alegría Hudes’ “Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue,” and the Second Annual Block Party Make Up the New Season at Center Theatre Group’s Kirk Douglas Theatre

The New Season Begins September 10, 2017, and Runs Through May 20, 2018.

[For a complete listing of plays and performance dates, please see PDF of release.]

† Please note the performance dates and opening night for "Big Night" have changed

Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Michael Ritchie has set the 2017-2018 season at Center Theatre Group’s Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City.

“This is a diverse season of productions at the Douglas,” said Ritchie. “But one thing they all have in common is that they resonate with the arts and culture of Los Angeles.

“We open with humorist Paul Rudnick’s hilarious but moving look at that uniquely L.A. holiday, Oscar night. In ‘Big Night,’ Paul begins his story on a day when Hollywood seems to be the center of the universe and then turns the world upside down.

“The next work also looks toward Hollywood, where the run of ‘Hamilton’ promises to be a juggernaut,” said Ritchie. “And for the people who come out of ‘Hamilton’ wanting more or those just left wanting tickets, Gerard Alessandrini’s ‘Spamilton’ salutes and skewers Lin-Manuel Miranda’s masterwork … and it’s a flat-out funny night in the theatre.

“Next we looked to our own theatre across town, the Mark Taper Forum, where we are producing Quiara Alegría Hudes’ ‘Water by the Spoonful.’ It’s a powerful work, but it is only one chapter in Quiara’s stunning trilogy. By producing ‘Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue’ at the Douglas, we are able to dive more deeply into the work of this exciting playwright.

“And finally, while we are only halfway through our inaugural Block Party, it is already clear that this is a tradition that needs to continue. We chose three productions from Southern California’s many intimate theatres for this year’s Block Party. It has allowed us to introduce our audiences to three amazing theatre companies and deepen our connections with the deep pool of talent and creativity that makes the L.A. theatre community such a singular force.

“Theatre is a collaborative art form that, at its best, sparks conversations among the artists that create it and the audience members that experience it. This season’s productions are guaranteed to keep people talking – at times they may change the way you see your neighbor, at other times they may change the lyrics you sing to your favorite tune – but over the course of the season they will make you laugh, cry, dance and explore the countless theatrical opportunities the city has to offer.”

“Big Night” by Paul Rudnick

World Premiere

Obie-winning playwright and renowned humorist Paul Rudnick brings his sharp wit and insightful eye to “Big Night,” getting its world premiere as the first play of the 2017-2018 season at Center Theatre Group’s Kirk Douglas Theatre. Directed by Walter Bobbie, “Big Night” runs September 10 through October 8, 2017, with the opening set for September 16.†

It is the night of the Oscars and a working actor turned Oscar nominee knows that his life is about to change – he just doesn’t know how profoundly. His transgender nephew has plans for his speech, his young agent has plans for his future, his unstoppable mother has plans for the catering and his partner is nowhere to be found. Master satirist Paul Rudnick blends a deep humanity with a honed sense of hilarity in this powerful and funny play about family and fame, the personal and the political, and the drive to stand up and speak out.

Paul Rudnick is a playwright, novelist, essayist and screenwriter, whom The New York Times has called “one of our pre-eminent humorists.” His plays have been produced both on and Off-Broadway and include “I Hate Hamlet,” “Jeffrey,” “The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told,” “Regrets Only” and “The New Century.” He’s won an Obie Award, two Outer Critics Circle Awards and the John Gassner Playwriting Award. Rudnick’s novels include “Social Disease” and “I’ll Take It,” both from Knopf. He’s a regular contributor to The New Yorker and his articles and essays have appeared in Vanity Fair, Esquire, Vogue and The New York Times. HarperCollins published his “Collected Plays” and a book of essays entitled “I Shudder.” He’s rumored to be quite close to Premiere magazine’s film critic, Libby Gelman-Waxner, whose collected columns were published under the title “If You Ask Me.” His screenplays include “Addams Family Values,” the screen adaptation of “Jeffrey” and “In & Out.”

“Spamilton” by Gerard Alessandrini

West Coast Premiere

Center Theatre Group will produce the West Coast premiere of the hit musical parody “Spamilton,” November 5 through December 31, 2017, with opening set for November 12. Created, written and directed by Gerard Alessandrini, “Spamilton” celebrates and satirizes the Broadway blockbuster with a versatile cast of five.

The world premiere Off-Broadway production of “Spamilton” has been extended several times and had Lin-Manuel Miranda exclaiming, “I laughed my brains out!”

Marilyn Stasio of Variety mused, “Hip-hop, Broadway showtunes, Viennese waltzes – is there anything this guy can’t write? No, not ‘Hamilton’ creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, but Gerard Alessandrini, whose ingenious parody ‘Spamilton’ simultaneously salutes and sends up Miranda and his signature musical.” And Ben Brantley of The New York Times said, “This smart, silly and often convulsively funny thesis, performed by a motor-mouthed cast that is fluent in many tongues, is the work of that eminent specialist in Broadway anatomy, pathology and gossip, Gerard Alessandrini.”

“We’re very excited about expanding the show a bit,” Alessandrini said. “We will also be adding up-to-date references to ‘Hamilton,’ Lin-Manuel Miranda and their impact on the current Broadway season. So look out Glenn Close, Bette Midler and Evan Hansen!”

Gerard Alessandrini is best known for creating and writing all 25 editions of “Forbidden Broadway” in Los Angeles, New York, London and around the world. Alessandrini was featured in the 1982 cast of “Forbidden Broadway” and can be heard on four of the 12 “Forbidden Broadway” cast albums. Television writing credits include comedy specials for Bob Hope, Angela Lansbury and Carol Burnett. Directing credits include Maury Yeston’s “In the Beginning.” As a director, he is currently working on an upcoming revue focusing on the songs of Maury Yeston, entitled “Anything Can Happen (In the Theatre).” Alessandrini is the recipient of an Obie Award, an Outer Critics Circle Award, two Lucille Lortel Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Drama League and seven Drama Desk Awards (including two for Best Lyrics for “Forbidden Broadway” and two special lifetime awards). Alessandrini was also awarded an Honorary Tony Award for “excellence in the theatre.”

“Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue” by Quiara Alegría Hudes

The 2007 Pulitzer Prize finalist “Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue” by Quiara Alegría Hudes will be produced at the Douglas January 27 through February 25, 2018. Directed by Shishir Kurup, the opening is set for February 3. A soldier, like his father and his father’s father, 19-year-old Elliot is back from Iraq with a Purple Heart. As he recovers from his injuries and decides whether to return to Iraq, he yearns for a truer connection with his father and considers his own limited options outside the military.

Phoebe Hoban of The New York Times said “‘Elliot, A Soldier's Fugue’ is that rare and rewarding thing: a theater work that succeeds on every level, while creating something new. The playwright, Quiara Alegría Hudes, who has degrees in music (a bachelor's from Yale) and playwriting (a master’s from Brown), combines a lyrical ear with a sophisticated sense of structure to trace the legacy of war through three generations of a Puerto Rican family.” “Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue,” the first in a trilogy of plays, will be produced at the Douglas at the same time as Center Theatre Group is presenting the second play in that trilogy, Hudes’ Pulitzer-winning “Water by the Spoonful” at the Mark Taper Forum. Presented together, they offer Los Angeles theatre audiences a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the work of this exciting playwright’s work.

Quiara Alegría Hudes’ trilogy continues with “The Happiest Song Plays Last” (2012). “Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue” premiered Off-Off-Broadway by Page 73 Productions and was a finalist for the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. “Water by the Spoonful” premiered at Hartford Stage Company and won the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. “The Happiest Song Plays Last” premiered at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago in 2013. Hudes wrote the book for the Broadway musical “In the Heights,” which received the 2008 Tony Award for Best Musical, a Tony nomination for Best Book of a Musical and was a 2009 Pulitzer Prize finalist. Other works include the plays “26 Miles” and “Yemaya’s Belly” and the children’s musical “Barrio Grrrl!” Hudes grew up in West Philadelphia where she studied music with Don Rappaport, Dolly Kranzapolski and Linda Hudes. She was later mentored by playwright Paula Vogel at Brown University. Hudes is an alumna of New Dramatists and sits on the board of Philadelphia Young Playwrights, which produced her first play in the 10th grade.

Block Party: Celebrating Los Angeles Theatre

Drawing upon the rich local theatre community, Block Party: Celebrating Los Angeles Theatre will return to the Kirk Douglas Theatre for its second season. Presented over six weeks, March 29 – May 20, 2018, Block Party will feature three productions from local 99-seat or smaller theatres.

Los Angeles is home to over 250 theatre companies that feature an abundance of talent, diversity and ingenuity. Center Theatre Group is tapping into this deep pool of artists for Block Party – a selection of three recent productions from local theatre companies, highlighting some of the best work the city has to offer.

Center Theatre Group has a long history of pairing with local theatre companies including the Deaf West production of “Big River” which was produced at the Mark Taper Forum in 2003 and went on to Broadway before returning to the Ahmanson Theatre in 2005 as part of a national tour. More recently, Center Theatre Group partnered with Ebony Repertory Theatre for the remounting of “A Raisin in the Sun” (which played at the Douglas in conversation with the play’s sequel/prequel “Clybourne Park” which was presented simultaneously at the Taper), with 24th STreet Theatre for “Walking the Tightrope” (also at the Douglas) and participated in other productions around the city such as “The Behavior of Broadus” (with Burglars of Hamm and Sacred Fools Theater Company) and “Birder” (with the Road Theatre Company).

Center Theatre Group received 76 submissions for the inaugural Block Party, which is currently running at the Douglas. The plays selected for the current Block Party are Coeurage Theatre Company’s production of “Failure: A Love Story” by Philip Dawkins, The Echo Theater Company’s production of “Dry Land” by Ruby Rae Spiegel and The Fountain Theatre’s production of “Citizen: An American Lyric” by Claudia Rankine and adapted for the stage by Stephen Sachs.

Theatre companies from the greater Los Angeles area are invited to submit shows for the 2018 Block Party. The plays must have opened at a local intimate theatre between January 1, 2016, and May 30, 2017. Applications are being accepted beginning Friday, April 28 and continuing through May 30, 2017. Theatre companies interested in submitting an application should visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org/BlockParty.

2017-2018 Season is Currently Available by Season Ticket Memberships Only

The 2017-2018 season at the Douglas is currently available by season ticket memberships only. For information and to purchase season tickets by phone, call the Exclusive Season Ticket Membership Hotline at (213) 972-4444. For more information about season tickets visit CenterTheatreGroup.org/Douglas.

The Douglas Experience

A popular feature of the Kirk Douglas Theatre is The Lounge, where patrons can enjoy a cocktail before the show in the comfortable lobby of the theatre, and chat with the well-informed and engaging staff. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks can be taken into the seating area. (Many of the productions feature themed cocktails – Tiny Timtinis for The Second City’s “A Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens!”)

Patrons are encouraged to come early and explore the interactive displays and activities in The Lounge that are specially crafted for each production. Past productions have included experiences as diverse as a photo booth where patrons could have their photo taken laughing alone with the salad of their choice (for “Women Laughing Alone with Salad”), a timeline showing the history of Chavez Ravine with an area left blank for patrons to add their own memories of Los Angeles (for “Chavez Ravine”), and an electric guitar in the historic ticket booth of the theatre for patrons to rock out with (for “The Black Suits”).

In addition, the productions are followed by Audience Talks – post-show conversations in The Lounge facilitated by Center Theatre Group’s knowledgeable and specially trained staff.

The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd. in Culver City. Parking is free in the nearby Culver City’s City Hall garage, and a number of the restaurants within steps of the theatre offer exclusive discounts to Kirk Douglas Theatre ticket holders.

# # #

April 27, 2017/Updated July 31, 2017

Performances Have Begun for 'Archduke' at the Taper

Center Theatre Group — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0700

PERFORMANCES HAVE BEGUN FOR THE WORLD PREMIERE OF “ARCHDUKE” AT THE MARK TAPER FORUM THROUGH JUNE 4, 2017

Pulitzer Finalist Rajiv Joseph Returns to Center Theatre Group with His New Play

Performances have begun for Center Theatre Group’s production of “Archduke.” Written by Rajiv Joseph, the world premiere of “Archduke” began previews April 25 and will continue through June 4, 2017, at the Mark Taper Forum. Opening night is set for May 7.

Directed by Giovanna Sardelli, the cast includes, in alphabetical order, Josiah Bania, Joanne McGee, Ramiz Monsef, Patrick Page, Stephen Stocking and Todd Weeks.

The creative team includes scenic design by Tim Mackabee, costume design by Denitsa Bliznakova, lighting design by Lap Chi Chu, music and sound by Daniel Kluger, casting by Telsey + Company and the production stage manager is David S. Franklin.

“Archduke” follows the unlikely path to terrorism as three strangers, already struggling to get by, receive a death sentence in the form of a tuberculosis diagnosis. But being young men with nothing to lose in Belgrade, 1914, makes them the perfect recruits for a secret organization looking to strike a blow in the name of Serbian nationalism.

“Archduke” explores the short journey from individual hardship to public harm as personal desperation is cultivated into an act with international significance and a few average men spark World War I.

Rajiv Joseph’s “Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo” premiered at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in 2009 before moving to the Taper in 2010 and Broadway in 2011. “Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo” was named a 2010 Pulitzer Prize finalist for Drama and was also awarded a grant for Outstanding New American Play by the National Endowment for the Arts. Joseph’s play “Guards at the Taj” was a 2016 Obie winner for Best New American Play and 2016 Lucille Lortel winner for Best Play. His other plays include “The North Pool,” “Gruesome Playground Injuries,” “Animals Out of Paper” and “The Lake Effect.” His plays have been translated and produced worldwide.

Tickets to “Archduke” are available by calling (213) 628-2772, online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org or at the Center Theatre Group box office. Tickets range from $25 – $95 (ticket prices are subject to change). The Mark Taper Forum is located at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown L.A. 90012.

# # #

April 27, 2017

Center Theatre Group To Host 'Archduke' Community Events

Center Theatre Group — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP TO HOST COMMUNITY EVENTS FOR NEW PLAY “ARCHDUKE”

Community Conversations Will Discuss Alienated Youth, Terrorism and What Makes a Man. Additional Events Include Post-Show Stage Talks and Audience Talks, a Taper and Tonic Gin Tasting Event and “Archduke”-Themed Trivia Nights

The World Premiere of Rajiv Joseph’s “Archduke” Plays April 25 – June 4, 2017, at the Taper

Center Theatre Group will host multiple community events inspired by “Archduke” including two Community Conversations on May 13 and 24; three post-show Stage Talks on May 2, 21 and 23; post-show Audience Talks after every evening performance beginning May 11; a special “Taper and Tonic” gin tasting event on May 3; and two “Archduke”-themed trivia nights on April 26 and May 1.

Written by Rajiv Joseph and directed by Giovanna Sardelli, the world premiere of “Archduke” begins previews April 25, opens May 7 and continues through June 4, 2017, at the Mark Taper Forum.

Center Theatre Group’s Community Conversations are a series of panel discussions free and open to the public that feature local thought leaders in dialogue about the context, issues and ideas finding voice on our stages.

The first “Archduke” Community Conversation will kick off Saturday, May 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with The Mind of a Young Radical. In this pre-show conversation, panelists will discuss the alienation, loneliness and anger that young people often feel. The three men who set World War I in motion by joining a Serbian nationalists group and killing Archduke Franz Ferdinand were under the age of 20. A century later, young men and women of the same age continue to find themselves drawn to groups and movements – many of them radical and violent – ranging from terrorist cells to gangs. Center Theatre Group will bring together scholars and cultural critics to discuss the psychology of young radicals throughout history and today. This event will take place at The Music Center Annex building, 601 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, in Rehearsal Room A. Panelists to be announced.

The second “Archduke” Community Conversation will be Wednesday, May 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with What Makes a Man? In this pre-show conversation, panelists will discuss how masculinity has changed in the past hundred years and what we think it means to be a man today, in a time when gender might be more fluid than ever before. In Rajiv Joseph’s “Archduke,” assassin Gavrilo Princip and his co-conspirators find themselves drawn to violence on the eve of World War I in part by the idea that it will transform them from boys into men. Center Theatre Group will bring together social scientists and thinkers to discuss how we think and talk about masculinity, and how our ideas and conversations change the world we live in. This event will take place at The Music Center Annex building, 601 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, in Rehearsal Room C. Panelists to be announced.

“The Community Conversations are that moment when we ask people in our community to help us make relevant the themes and ideas that are alive on our stage,” said Leslie K. Johnson, Center Theatre Group’s Director of Social Strategy, Innovation and Impact. “Asking thought leaders to come and spark that conversation is exciting. By inviting them into the room, we are able to hear someone who lives these topics every day discuss them in the context of the show.”

Center Theatre Group will host three post-show Stage Talks with select members of the “Archduke” creative team and Center Theatre Group’s artistic staff following the evening performances on May 2, 21 and 23 at the Mark Taper Forum. Audience Talks led by Center Theatre Group Teaching Artists are also planned to take place after every evening performance of “Archduke” beginning May 11. The Stage Talks and Audience Talks allow audience members the opportunity to discuss how the art on stage and the experience they have shared in has resonated with them and their world both personally and as a community.

Center Theatre Group will also host a Taper and Tonic event after the May 3 performance of “Archduke.” Sponsored by LA Weekly, Sipsmith spirit will offer audience members a complimentary gin tasting in the lower lobby of the Mark Taper Forum following the 8 p.m. performance of “Archduke.” The tasting will be available exclusively to audience members attending the show that evening.

Center Theatre Group is partnering with Geeks Who Drink for two free nights of “Archduke” Trivia Nights. The first “Archduke”-themed trivia night will take place at The Blind Donkey in Pasadena on Wednesday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. The Blind Donkey is located at 53 E. Union St, Pasadena, CA 91103. The second “Archduke”-themed trivia night will take place at Hamburger Mary’s in West Hollywood on Monday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. Hamburger Mary’s is located at 8288 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046.

For more information about the “Archduke” community events, please visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org/Archduke.

# # #

April 25, 2017

Center Theatre Group Presents "Broadway at Grand Park"

Center Theatre Group — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 10:22:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS “BROADWAY AT GRAND PARK” FRIDAY APRIL 28
Free Concert from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Grand Park Across From The Music Center
“Into the Woods and “Jersey Boys” Casts Perform Hits From Their Smash Broadway Shows

“Jersey Boys” to Perform “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh, What A Night”

On Friday, April 28, Center Theatre Group will launch the newly created free concert event “Broadway at Grand Park” from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. with cast members from the Ahmanson Theatre’s “Into the Woods” and “Jersey Boys” performing some of the biggest hits from these popular shows. The concert is free and open to the public.

Mark Ballas as Frankie Valli will lead the Jersey Boys for the Grand Park concert with Matthew Dailey, Keith Hines and Cory Jeacoma as Tommy DeVito, Nick Massi and Bob Gaudio, respectively. The Jersey Boys will perform the hits “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh, What A Night,” “Who Loves You and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Cast members from “Into the Woods” will perform a selection of favorites from the hit Sondheim musical.

Ballas will reprise his acclaimed Broadway performance as Frankie Valli in the Ahmanson engagement of “Jersey Boys.” Ballas, known for his Emmy nominated work on “Dancing with the Stars,” made his Broadway debut in the role last fall. “Jersey Boys,” plays at the Ahmanson May 16 through June 24, 2017.

The acclaimed Fiasco Theater Company’s “Into the Woods” is currently playing at Center Theatre Group’s Ahmanson Theatre through May 14. The Tony Award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, is directed by Noah Brody and Ben Steinfeld.

“Into the Woods” includes memorable songs like “Children Will Listen” and “No One Is Alone.” Mind the wolf, heed the witch and honor the giant in the sky in this extraordinary musical about the power of wishes and what really happens after they come true. The award-winning musical has been mounted with boundless imagination: a witty and wild theatrical reinvention of a beloved modern classic.

Music and lyrics for “Into the Woods” are by Stephen Sondheim, the book is by James Lapine and the co-directors are Noah Brody and Ben Steinfeld.

The Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning hit musical “Jersey Boys” is the behind-the-music story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard—and the radio just couldn’t get enough of it. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story—a story that has made them an international sensation all over again.

The book for “Jersey Boys” is by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, the music is by Bob Gaudio, the lyrics are y Bob Crewe, the choreography is by Sergio Trujillo and the director is Des McAnuff.

Bank of America is the season sponsor for the Ahmanson Theatre and Delta Airlines is the official airline sponsor.

Grand Park Mainstage is located at 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012. The event will also feature a pop-up box office open from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Grand Park so attendees may purchase tickets for “Into the Woods” and “Jersey Boys.”

Tickets for “Into the Woods” and “Jersey Boys” are available by calling (213) 972-4400, online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org or by visiting the Center Theatre Group box office located at the Ahmanson Theatre. Tickets will also be available for purchase from 11:30 to 2 p.m. in Grand Park on Friday, April 28 only. Tickets range from $25 – $125 (ticket prices are subject to change). The Ahmanson Theatre is located at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles, 90012

###

April 24, 2017/Updated

Center Theatre Group Announces Partnerships with Renowned Theatres and Artists

Center Theatre Group — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 15:11:00 -0700

IN CELEBRATION OF 50TH ANNIVERSARY CENTER THEATRE GROUP ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIPS WITH FOUR INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED THEATRES AND EXTENDED RELATIONSHIPS WITH THREE TOP THEATRE ARTISTS

$1 Million Edgerton Foundation Playwrights Initiative will Support Center Theatre Group’s Involvement in Individual Commissioning Arrangements with Goodman Theatre, the National Theatre, Royal Court Theatre and Second Stage Theater

In Addition Celebrated Artists Matthew Bourne, Danai Gurira and Anna D. Shapiro Have Expanded Their Relationship with Center Theatre Group as Associate Artists

Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Michael Ritchie announced separate co-commissioning partnerships with four internationally renowned theatres. Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, London’s Royal Court Theatre and National Theatre, and New York’s Second Stage Theater have each individually joined with Center Theatre Group to commission multiple works over the next decade. In addition, choreographer/director Matthew Bourne, playwright Danai Gurira and director Anna D. Shapiro have expanded their relationships with Center Theatre Group as Associate Artists.

A $1 million grant from the Edgerton Foundation will support Center Theatre Group’s portion of co-commissions from playwrights such as Jon Robin Baitz (Pulitzer finalist and Tony nominee), Will Eno (Pulitzer finalist), Danai Gurira (Tony nominee), Lisa Kron (Tony winner), Young Jean Lee (Obie winner), Lynn Nottage (two-time Pulitzer winner), Qui Nguyen (Steinberg Award winner), Al Smith (Sunday Times Playwriting Award winner) and Paula Vogel (Pulitzer winner). Titled the Edgerton Foundation Playwrights Initiative, the grant is intended to allow Center Theatre Group to commission at least two shows annually with each of the four theatres.

“In recognition of Center Theatre Group’s long-standing mission to develop new art for the American stage, we are excited to offer commissioning funds for more than 50 new plays in the Edgerton Foundation Playwrights Initiative in partnership with four other theatres in Chicago, New York and London. By jointly developing each of these new plays with two talented theatre staffs, we hope to increase the number of productions that will journey to many regional theatres, Broadway and the West End,” said Brad Edgerton, MD, President, Edgerton Foundation.

“The Edgerton Foundation Playwrights Initiative is allowing us to make bigger, bolder investments in some of the world’s best playwrights,” said Michael Ritchie. “Co-commissioning with some of the top theatres in the U.S. and London allows us to put our resources together in support of the creation and production of new work around the world—with a clear path to Broadway thanks to our new connection to Second Stage and their Helen Hayes Theater.”

Artistic Director of the Royal Court Theatre Vicky Featherstone said, “The Royal Court is constantly looking for partnership and co-operation with like-minded theatre companies around the world. With Center Theatre Group, we feel as though we’ve hit on a real affinity. Our shared enthusiasm and support for playwrights and our commitment to new writing that illuminates the times we live in make us feel certain that this alliance will bring great work into the world that might otherwise not have existed.”

Director of the National Theatre Rufus Norris said, “The National is delighted to be partnering with Center Theatre Group on a series of new US/UK co-commissions. There has never been a more important time for organizations from around the world to work together and I hope that this relationship will lead to some fantastic new plays from the best of British and American theatre-makers.”

“This program is a natural outgrowth of our already strong relationship with Center Theatre Group and our mutual commitment to the development and production of new American plays,” said Goodman Theatre Artistic Director Robert Falls. “Center Theatre Group is our producing partner on our current production of Lauren Yee’s delightful Goodman commission ‘King of the Yees,’ and recently hosted a very successful remount of my production of Rebecca Gilman’s newest play ‘Luna Gale.’ I am thrilled that this joint program will provide greater resources for playwrights, the results of which will then be enjoyed by audiences in both Chicago and Los Angeles.”

“Michael Ritchie and I have a long professional history and there is no one I’d rather launch our co-commissioning program with than Michael and Center Theatre Group,” said Second Stage Artistic Director Carole Rothman. “This unique partnership will allow American playwrights to reap the benefits of two institutions giving the writers two productions in two vitally different cities. Most crucially, the pathway between our theatre companies is charted to ensure a larger audience for new American plays.”

Michael Ritchie added, “At the same time we are beginning this collaboration with four world-class theatres, we are expanding and formalizing our existing relationships with Matthew, Danai and Anna — all artists working at the top of their game. They will be bringing new work to our stages and collaborating with our artistic team to help set the foundation for Center Theatre Group's next 50 years.”

Sir Matthew Bourne OBE said “I’m honored and thrilled to have been asked by Michael, and the team at Center Theatre Group to be an Associate Artist for the next five years. The Center Theatre Group has felt very much like my company, New Adventures, home-away-from-home in North America since our first visit with ‘Swan Lake’ almost exactly 20 years ago. I look forward to building on our special relationship, developing ideas and further contributing to the extraordinary work Center Theatre Group delivers for artists, audiences and communities.”

Danai Gurira stated, “I am thrilled to continue my relationship with Center Theatre Group by becoming an Associate Artist. Center Theatre Group is already a creative home to me and has facilitated my voice in so many ways. I look forward to chartering more artistic terrain during the next years ahead. I'm excited about what we will discover.”

Anna D. Shapiro, Artistic Director of Steppenwolf Theatre Company shares, “My relationship with Mike and Center Theatre Group began when I directed Steppenwolf's national touring production of ‘August: Osage County’ by ensemble member Tracy Letts in 2009, followed by Steppenwolf’s ‘A Parallelogram’ by ensemble member Bruce Norris in 2013, and I'm excited to build on that. This expanded relationship creates a great opportunity to build a bridge between Chicago and Los Angeles, where many of our ensemble members live and work, allowing for more cross-collaboration between two like-minded theatres and exciting opportunities for Steppenwolf to make connections with new artists, which can only enhance the important work we're doing at home.”

Biographies

Goodman Theatre America’s “Best Regional Theater” (Time) and Chicago’s premiere not-for-profit theatre, Goodman Theatre is distinguished by the quality and scope of its artistic programming and civic engagement. The Goodman is led by Artistic Director Robert Falls and Executive Director Roche Schulfer. Productions have earned two Pulitzer Prizes, 22 Tony Awards and nearly 160 Jeff Awards. Over the past three decades, audiences have experienced over 150 world or American premieres, 30 major musicals and internationally celebrated productions of classics. The Goodman was the first in the world to produce all 10 plays in August Wilson’s “American Century Cycle.” For four decades, the annual tradition of A Christmas Carol has created a new generation of theatergoers. The 2016 opening of the Alice Rapoport Center for Education and Engagement launched the next phase in the Goodman’s commitment as an arts and community organization dedicated to educating Chicago youth and promoting lifelong learning.

National Theatre The National Theatre is dedicated to making the very best theatre and sharing it with as many people as possible. We produce productions on the South Bank in London each year, ranging from reimagined classics to modern masterpieces and new work by contemporary writers and theatre-makers. The National’s work is seen on tour throughout the UK, in London’s West End, internationally (including on Broadway) and in collaborations and co-productions with theatres across the country. Across 2015-2016, the NT staged 34 productions and gave 3,134 performances in the UK and internationally. The NT’s award-winning program had a UK audience of 2.5 million, 700,000 of which were NT Live audiences.

The NT is committed to providing programs for schools, young people, families, community groups and adult learners, including the nationwide youth theatre festival Connections and playwriting competition New Views. In 2015-2016, we engaged with over 181,000 participants through the NT Learning events program. Further, over 2,600 secondary schools have signed up to the free streaming service, On Demand. In Schools since its launch in September 2015.

Royal Court Theatre The Royal Court Theatre is the writers’ theatre. It is the leading force in world theatre for energetically cultivating writers – undiscovered, emerging and established. Through the writers, the Royal Court is at the forefront of creating restless, alert, provocative theatre about now. We open our doors to the unheard voices and free thinkers that, through their writing, change our way of seeing.

Over 120,000 people visit the Royal Court in Sloane Square, London, each year and many thousands more see our work elsewhere through transfers to the West End and New York, UK and international tours, digital platforms, our residencies across London, and our site-specific work. Through all our work we strive to inspire audiences and influence future writers with radical thinking and provocative discussion.

The Royal Court’s extensive development activity encompasses a diverse range of writers and artists and includes an ongoing programme of writers’ attachments, readings, workshops and playwriting groups. Twenty years of the International Department’s pioneering work around the world means the Royal Court has relationships with writers on every continent.

Within the past 60 years, John Osborne, Beckett, Arnold Wesker, Ann Jellicoe, Howard Brenton, David Hare and many more started their careers at the Court. Many others, including Caryl Churchill, Athol Fugard, Mark Ravenhill, Simon Stephens, debbie tucker green and Sarah Kane have followed.

More recently, the theatre has fostered new writers such as Lucy Kirkwood, Nick Payne, Penelope Skinner and Alistair McDowall and produced many iconic plays from Laura Wade’s “Posh” to Jez Butterworth’s “Jerusalem” and Martin McDonagh’s “Hangmen.”

Royal Court plays from every decade are now performed on stage and taught in classrooms and universities across the globe. It is because of this commitment to the writer that we believe there is no more important theatre in the world than the Royal Court.

Second Stage Theater Under the artistic direction of co-founder Carole Rothman, Second Stage Theater produces a diverse range of America’s best contemporary theatre, including the 2015 Pulitzer Prize winner “Between Riverside and Crazy”; 2012 Pulitzer Prize winner “Water by the Spoonful” by Quiara Alegria Hudes; and 2010 Pulitzer Prize winner “Next to Normal” by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey. Next spring, Second Stage will begin producing at The Hayes Theater on Broadway, where it will become the only company on Broadway dedicated exclusively to producing the work of living American playwrights. www.2ST.com

Sir Matthew Bourne OBE Artistic Director of New Adventures and Re:Bourne, Matthew Bourne is widely hailed as the UK’s most popular and successful choreographer and director. He was knighted in the Queen’s New Year Honours 2016 for services to dance.

Matthew is the creator of the world’s longest running ballet production, a five-time Olivier Award winner, and the only British director to have won the Tony Award for both Best Choreographer and Best Director of a Musical.

Matthew started his dance training at the comparatively late age of 22. He danced professionally for 14 years creating many roles in his own work. As Artistic Director of his first company, Adventures in Motion Pictures (1987-2002), Matthew created many award-winning works. Further hit productions were created when New Adventures was launched in 2002, becoming the UK’s busiest and most successful dance company.

In 2008 he established his charity Re:Bourne to increase opportunities that inspire young people with a passion for dance.

Anna D. Shapiro Anna D. Shapiro joined the Steppenwolf Theatre Company ensemble in 2005 and became Artistic Director in 2015. She was awarded the 2008 Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play for “August: Osage County” (Steppenwolf, Broadway, London), and was nominated in 2011 in the same category for “The Motherf****r with the Hat” (Public Theater, Labyrinth Theater). Other Broadway credits include “Of Mice and Men” (with James Franco) and “Fish in the Dark” (with Larry David). Off-Broadway credits include “Domesticated” (Lincoln Center). Other directing credits at Steppenwolf include “Visiting Edna,” “Mary Page Marlowe,” “Three Sisters,” “A Parallelogram” (also at the Mark Taper Forum), “Up,” “The Crucible,” “The Unmentionables” (also at Yale Repertory Theatre), “The Pain and the Itch” (also in New York), “I Never Sang for My Father,” “Man from Nebraska,” “Purple Heart” (also in Galway, Ireland), “The Drawer Boy,” “Side Man” (also in Ireland, Australia and Vail, Colorado), “Three Days of Rain,” “The Infidel” and “This is Our Youth” (which transferred to Broadway). Shapiro is a graduate of the Yale School of Drama and Columbia. She is a full professor in Northwestern University’s Department of Theatre.

Danai Gurira Danai Gurira’s writing credits include “Eclipsed” (six Tony Award nominations; NAACP Award; Helen Hayes Award: Best New Play; Connecticut Critics Circle Award: Outstanding Production of a Play), “In the Continuum” (OBIE Award, Outer Critics Award, Helen Hayes Award) and “The Convert” (six Ovation Awards, Los Angeles Drama Critics Award). Danai’s newest play, “Familiar,” received its world premiere at Yale Rep in 2015. She is a recipient of the Whiting Award, a Hodder Fellow, and has been commissioned by Yale Rep, Center Theatre Group, Playwrights Horizons and the Royal Court. She recently completed production on the Tupac Shakur biopic “All Eyez on Me,” appears in Marvel’s upcoming film “Black Panther” and is currently developing a pilot for HBO. Select acting credits include “The Walking”, “The Visitor,” “Mother of George” and Isabella in NYSF’s “Measure for Measure” (Equity Callaway Award). Gurira is an Ambassador for the ONE Campaign and founder of LOGpledge.org, an awareness building campaign focused on the plights of women and girls around the globe. She is the co-founder of Almasi Arts, which works to give access and opportunity to the African Dramatic Artist (almasiartsalliance.org). Born in the US to Zimbabwean parents, Gurira was raised in Zimbabwe and holds an MFA from Tisch, NYU.

# # #

April 20, 2017

Block Party Begins With Opening of 'Failure: A Love Story'

Center Theatre Group — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 16:39:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S BLOCK PARTY BEGINS WITH THE OPENING OF “FAILURE: A LOVE STORY” FROM COEURAGE THEATRE COMPANY ON SUNDAY, APRIL 16

Only 11 Performances for the Encore Presentation of the Ovation Award-Winning Production

Center Theatre Group’s Block Party begins with the opening of the Coeurage Theatre Company production of “Failure: A Love Story” this Sunday, April 16 at 6:30 p.m. Written by Philip Dawkins and directed by Michael Matthews, “Failure: A Love Story” will run through April 23, 2017, with 11 performances only.

Block Party highlights some of the remarkable work being done on other, more intimate theatres throughout Los Angeles by fully producing three previously staged productions. The three shows receive the full support of Center Theatre Group and its staff in order to fund, stage and market each production. Subsequent Block Party productions will be The Fountain Theatre’s production of “Citizen: An American Lyric” running April 28 through May 7 and The Echo Theater Company’s production of “Dry Land” running May 12 through May 21.

“Failure: A Love Story” chronicles the lives, loves and deaths of the three Fail sisters and the one man who fell in love with each of them. Set against the backdrop of 1920s Chicago, this touching, whimsical tale explores the impermanence of life and the permanence of love.

The cast of “Failure: A Love Story” includes Joe Calarco, June Carryl, Cristina Gerla, Kristina Johnson, Margaret Katch, Denver Milord, Gregory Nabours, Theodore Perkins, Kurt Quinn, Brandon Ruiter, Nicole Shalhoub, Gina Torrecilla and Brittney S. Wheeler. Scenic design is by JR Bruce, costume design is by Allison Dillard, lighting design is by Matthew Brian Denman, and original music, arrangements and music direction is by Nabours. Emily Abbott is the production stage manager. “As we celebrate Center Theatre Group’s 50 years of creating theatre in Los Angeles, we want to turn the spotlight on some of the remarkable work being done on other stages,” said Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Michael Ritchie in discussing Block Party. “Coeurage Theatre, Echo Theater and Fountain Theatre, as well as others throughout L.A., regularly produce excellent, boundary-pushing work and we’re so glad they are sharing some of that work with us.”

Block Party receives major support from Aliza Karney Guren and Marc Guren with generous funding also provided by Joni and Miles Benickes.

Center Theatre Group has a long history of pairing with local theatre companies including the Deaf West production of “Big River” which was produced at the Mark Taper Forum in 2002 and went on to Broadway before returning to the Ahmanson Theatre in 2005 as part of a national tour. More recently, Center Theatre Group partnered with Ebony Repertory Theatre for the remounting of “A Raisin in the Sun” (which played at the Douglas), 24th STreet Theatre’s “Walking the Tightrope” (also at the Douglas) and with other companies around the city for “The Behavior of Broadus” (Burglars of Hamm and Sacred Fools Theater Company) and “Birder” (The Road Theatre Company).

Tickets for all three Block Party productions can be purchased as a package for $67. The package is only available in person or by phone.

As an homage to Coeurage Theatre’s payment structure, the first preview performance of each production will be a pay-what-you-want performance. Pay-what-you-want gives patrons the opportunity to decide what their theatre experience was worth to them before, during or after the performance. The pay-what-you-want performance for “Failure” is today, April 14, “Citizen” will be on April 28 and “Dry Land” will be on May 12.

The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd. in Culver City, CA 90232. Ample free parking and restaurants are adjacent.

# # #

April 14, 2017

Center Theatre Group Announces West Coast Premiere of 'Spamilton' at the Douglas

Center Theatre Group — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 14:56:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP ANNOUNCES WEST COAST PREMIERE OF “SPAMILTON” AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE NOVEMBER 5 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2017

The Hit Musical Parody will Launch its National Tour in Los Angeles

Center Theatre Group will produce the West Coast premiere of the hit musical parody “Spamilton” at the Kirk Douglas Theatre. Presented as part of Center Theatre Group’s 2017-2018 season at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, “Spamilton” will run November 5 through December 31, 2017, with opening set for November 12. The production will launch a national tour with additional cities and dates to be announced. The rest of the Kirk Douglas Theatre’s 2017-2018 season will be announced at a later date.

Created by Gerard Alessandrini, “Spamilton” celebrates and satirizes the Broadway blockbuster with its versatile cast of five. The world premiere Off-Broadway production has been extended three times and is now in its ninth smash month at The Triad and had Lin-Manuel Miranda exclaiming, “I laughed my brains out!”

Marilyn Stasio of Variety mused, “Hip-hop, Broadway showtunes, Viennese waltzes — is there anything this guy can’t write? No, not ‘Hamilton’ creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, but Gerard Alessandrini, whose ingenious parody ‘Spamilton’ simultaneously salutes and sends up Miranda and his signature musical.” And Ben Brantley said “This smart, silly and often convulsively funny thesis, performed by a motor-mouthed cast that is fluent in many tongues, is the work of that eminent specialist in Broadway anatomy, pathology and gossip, Gerard Alessandrini.”

Following a run of packed audiences at The Triad on W. 72nd St., “Spamilton,” the comedic musical take on all things “Hamilton” and Broadway, announced its move to 47th Street Theatre/The Puerto Rican Traveling Theatre with performances beginning June 2, 2017. The show’s move puts it just a stone's throw from the theatre housing its inspiration and main punchline.

In addition to the Off-Broadway move in New York City, the new production in Los Angeles and the upcoming tour, “Spamilton” recently opened a production in Chicago. “We’re very excited about expanding the show a bit,” Alessandrini said. “We will also be adding up-to-date references to “Hamilton,” Lin-Manuel Miranda, and their impact on the current Broadway season. So look out Glenn Close, Bette Midler and Evan Hansen!”

The season ticket on-sale date will be announced soon. For information about “Spamilton” at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, please visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org. For complete performance schedules, tickets, and pricing for New York and Chicago, you can visit www.spamilton.

The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd. in Culver City, CA 90232. Ample free parking and restaurants are adjacent.

# # #

April 11, 2017

Center Theatre Group Announces 50th Anniversary Celebration

Center Theatre Group — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP TO HOST 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017, AT THE AHMANSON THEATRE

Star Studded Evening Will Feature a One-Night-Only Production Starring Stage Alums Annette Bening, Matthew Bourne, Danai Gurira, Alfred Molina, Edward James Olmos, Phylicia Rashad and More to Be Announced

Robert Greenblatt, Chairman of NBC Entertainment, Named Co-Chair of the 50th Anniversary Celebration

Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles’ leading non-profit theatre company and one of the nation’s preeminent arts and cultural organizations, announced today its 50th anniversary celebration to be hosted on Saturday, May 20, 2017, at the Ahmanson Theatre.

Joined by Co-Chairs Robert Greenblatt, Chairman of NBC Entertainment, and Sue Tsao, Center Theatre Group board member, the star-studded event features a one-night-only production from writer, director and producer Robert Egan, followed by dinner in downtown Los Angeles’ Grand Park. The celebration will not only pay homage to 50 years of excellence, it will also spotlight Center Theatre Group’s education and community outreach programs as well as its continuing role in creating new work and helping to define the role of theatre both in Los Angeles and beyond.

Honoring Center Theatre Group’s past, present and future, the performance will draw from the many landmark productions that have been brought to life on its stages, and feature celebrated alumni such as Annette Bening, Matthew Bourne, Danai Gurira, Alfred Molina, Edward James Olmos, Phylicia Rashad and more to be announced.

Following the production, guests will proceed to Grand Park for an extraordinary evening complete with culinary delights led by Patina Restaurant Group’s Joachim Splichal with pieces by celebrated chefs Vartan Abgaryan (71Above), Josiah Citrin (Mélisse), Ray Garcia (Broken Spanish), Bruce Kalman (Union) and Frania Mendivil (Patina).

“We are thrilled to have so many incredible artists returning to help us celebrate this exciting milestone, and the power of theatre to shape the cultural landscape of Los Angeles,” said Center Theatre Group Board President Kiki Ramos Gindler. “Our 50th Anniversary Celebration will bring together some of our most beloved and talented artists to reflect on Center Theatre Group’s proud history of world-class productions, innovative programs and field-defining new work.”

“For more than 50 years, Center Theatre Group has been working with the world’s greatest artists to present unforgettable experiences for our audiences,” said Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Michael Ritchie. “Through our 50th Anniversary Celebration, we will reflect on the incredible work that has shaped the Los Angeles theatre community, as well as welcome the journey of our next 50 years.” Center Theatre Group has welcomed to its stages some of today’s biggest stars, including Angela Bassett, Matthew Broderick, Sterling K. Brown, Viola Davis, Jane Fonda, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Neil Patrick Harris, Nathan Lane, Angela Lansbury, Al Pacino, Chris Pine, Denzel Washington and more.

For additional information on Center Theatre Group’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, please visit http://CenterTheatreGroup.org/50thCelebration.

# # #

Media Contacts:
50th Celebration Publicity
DKC Public Relations
CTG@dkcnews.com

Center Theatre Group Publicity
JMartin@CenterTheatreGroup.org

April 4, 2017

Rehearsals Begin for 'Archduke' at the Taper

Center Theatre Group — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0700

*REVISED

REHEARSALS BEGIN FOR CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S PRODUCTION OF “ARCHDUKE” AT THE MARK TAPER FORUM APRIL 25 THROUGH JUNE 4, 2017

Pulitzer Finalist Rajiv Joseph Returns to the Taper with the World Premiere of His New Play

Rehearsals have begun for Center Theatre Group’s production of “Archduke.” Written by Rajiv Joseph, the world premiere of “Archduke” begins previews April 25, opens May 7 and continues through June 4, 2017, at the Mark Taper Forum.

Directed by Giovanna Sardelli, the cast includes, in alphabetical order, Josiah Bania, Joanne McGee, Ramiz Monsef, Patrick Page, Stephen Stocking and Todd Weeks.

*Please note that Joanne McGee has joined the cast, replacing the previously announced Stephanie McVay.

# # #

April 3, 2017/Revised April 17

Center Theatre Group News & Blogs

Center Theatre Group's Block Party Continues with Opening of 'Citizen: An American Lyric'

CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S BLOCK PARTY CONTINUES AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE WITH OPENING OF THE FOUNTAIN THEATRE’S “CITIZEN: AN AMERICAN LYRIC” THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 30

Stage Adaptation of Claudia Rankine’s Acclaimed Book of Poetry Returns For 11 Performances Only

Center Theatre Group Announces 2017-2018 Season at the Kirk Douglas Theatre

REVISED†

CENTER THEATRE GROUP ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE

Center Theatre Group’s 14th Season at the Douglas Features a World Premiere Comedy, a Pulitzer Finalist Drama, the West Coast Premiere of a Smash Hit Parody of a Mega-Hit Musical, Plus the Continuation of an Exciting New Tradition

Paul Rudnick’s “Big Night,” Gerard Alessandrini’s “Spamilton,” Quiara Alegría Hudes’ “Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue,” and the Second Annual Block Party Make Up the New Season at Center Theatre Group’s Kirk Douglas Theatre

The New Season Begins September 10, 2017, and Runs Through May 20, 2018.

[For a complete listing of plays and performance dates, please see PDF of release.]

† Please note the performance dates and opening night for "Big Night" have changed

Performances Have Begun for 'Archduke' at the Taper

PERFORMANCES HAVE BEGUN FOR THE WORLD PREMIERE OF “ARCHDUKE” AT THE MARK TAPER FORUM THROUGH JUNE 4, 2017

Center Theatre Group To Host 'Archduke' Community Events

CENTER THEATRE GROUP TO HOST COMMUNITY EVENTS FOR NEW PLAY “ARCHDUKE”

Community Conversations Will Discuss Alienated Youth, Terrorism and What Makes a Man. Additional Events Include Post-Show Stage Talks and Audience Talks, a Taper and Tonic Gin Tasting Event and “Archduke”-Themed Trivia Nights

The World Premiere of Rajiv Joseph’s “Archduke” Plays April 25 – June 4, 2017, at the Taper

Center Theatre Group Presents "Broadway at Grand Park"

CENTER THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS “BROADWAY AT GRAND PARK” FRIDAY APRIL 28Free Concert from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Grand Park Across From The Music Center“Into the Woods and “Jersey Boys” Casts Perform Hits From Their Smash Broadway Shows

“Jersey Boys” to Perform “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh, What A Night”

Center Theatre Group Announces Partnerships with Renowned Theatres and Artists

IN CELEBRATION OF 50TH ANNIVERSARY CENTER THEATRE GROUP ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIPS WITH FOUR INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED THEATRES AND EXTENDED RELATIONSHIPS WITH THREE TOP THEATRE ARTISTS

$1 Million Edgerton Foundation Playwrights Initiative will Support Center Theatre Group’s Involvement in Individual Commissioning Arrangements with Goodman Theatre, the National Theatre, Royal Court Theatre and Second Stage Theater

In Addition Celebrated Artists Matthew Bourne, Danai Gurira and Anna D. Shapiro Have Expanded Their Relationship with Center Theatre Group as Associate Artists

Block Party Begins With Opening of 'Failure: A Love Story'

CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S BLOCK PARTY BEGINS WITH THE OPENING OF “FAILURE: A LOVE STORY” FROM COEURAGE THEATRE COMPANY ON SUNDAY, APRIL 16

Only 11 Performances for the Encore Presentation of the Ovation Award-Winning Production

Center Theatre Group Announces West Coast Premiere of 'Spamilton' at the Douglas

CENTER THEATRE GROUP ANNOUNCES WEST COAST PREMIERE OF “SPAMILTON” AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE NOVEMBER 5 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2017

The Hit Musical Parody will Launch its National Tour in Los Angeles

Center Theatre Group Announces 50th Anniversary Celebration

CENTER THEATRE GROUP TO HOST 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017, AT THE AHMANSON THEATRE

Star Studded Evening Will Feature a One-Night-Only Production Starring Stage Alums Annette Bening, Matthew Bourne, Danai Gurira, Alfred Molina, Edward James Olmos, Phylicia Rashad and More to Be Announced

Robert Greenblatt, Chairman of NBC Entertainment, Named Co-Chair of the 50th Anniversary Celebration

Rehearsals Begin for 'Archduke' at the Taper

*REVISED

REHEARSALS BEGIN FOR CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S PRODUCTION OF “ARCHDUKE” AT THE MARK TAPER FORUM APRIL 25 THROUGH JUNE 4, 2017

Pulitzer Finalist Rajiv Joseph Returns to the Taper with the World Premiere of His New Play

CENTER THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS “BROADWAY AT GRAND PARK” FRIDAY APRIL 28
Free Concert from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Grand Park Across From The Music Center
“Into the Woods and “Jersey Boys” Casts Perform Hits From Their Smash Broadway Shows