Center Theatre Group News & Blogs

Mark Ballas Reprises Roll as Franki Valli

Center Theatre Group — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 12:09:00 -0700

Mark Ballas Reprises His Acclaimed Broadway Performance as Frankie Valli In Los Angeles Cast of "Jersey Boys"

Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-Winning Best Musical

Directed by Des McAnuff

Casting has been announced for the Los Angeles engagement of the Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning hit musical “Jersey Boys,” the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, previewing May 16 and 17, opening May 18 and continuing through June 24, 2017, at Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre.

Mark Ballas will reprise his hit Broadway performance as Frankie Valli for the Los Angeles engagement of the tour. Ballas, known for his Emmy nominated work on “Dancing with the Stars,” made his Broadway debut in the role last fall (October 18, 2016 – January 15, 2017). Critically acclaimed ‘Frankie veterans’ Aaron De Jesus and Miguel Jarquin-Moreland will play Frankie Valli at certain performances during the week. The cast of “Jersey Boys” will also feature Matthew Dailey (Tommy DeVito), Keith Hines (Nick Massi) and Cory Jeacoma (Bob Gaudio) as The Four Seasons, with Barry Anderson and Thomas Fiscella.

The ensemble of “Jersey Boys” includes Mark Edwards, Corey Greenan, Bryan Hindle, David LaMarr, Austin Owen, Kristen Paulicelli, Leslie Rochette, Andrew Russell, Jenna Nicole Schoen, Dru Serkes, Jonny Wexler and Jesse Wildman.

“Jersey Boys” is the winner of the 2006 Best Musical Tony Award, the 2006 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical and the 2010 Helpmann Award for Best Musical (Australia). “Jersey Boys” has been seen by over 24 million people worldwide (as of January, 2017).

Directed by two-time Tony Award-winner Des McAnuff, “Jersey Boys” is written by Academy Award-winner Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio, lyrics by Bob Crewe and choreography by Sergio Trujillo.

“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 show features all their hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh What A Night,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” and “Working My Way Back To You.”

“Jersey Boys” opened at the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway to critical acclaim on November 6, 2005, running 11 record-breaking years and becoming the 12th longest running show in Broadway history. The boys said goodbye to Broadway on January 15, 2017. The “Jersey Boys” U.S. National Tour opened to rave reviews in San Francisco on December 1, 2006. Tours of the United Kingdom and Australia will begin the end of 2017 and 2018 respectively.

The “Jersey Boys” design and production team comprises Klara Zieglerova (scenic design), Jess Goldstein (costume design), Howell Binkley (winner of the 2006 Tony Award for his lighting design of “Jersey Boys”), Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound design), Michael Clark (projections design), Charles LaPointe (wig and hair design), Steve Orich (orchestrations) and Ron Melrose (music supervision, vocal/dance arrangements and incidental music).

“Jersey Boys” is produced by Dodger Theatricals, Joseph J. Grano, Tamara and Kevin Kinsella, Pelican Group, with Latitude Link and Rick Steiner.

The original Broadway cast recording of “Jersey Boys,” produced by Bob Gaudio, was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. The cast recording is available on Rhino Records. “Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons” (Broadway Books) is the official handbook to the smash Broadway hit. “Seasons Greetings: A Jersey Boys Christmas,” a holiday CD featuring international cast members of “Jersey Boys,” produced by Bob Gaudio, is available on Rhino Records.

Tickets for “Jersey Boys” are available by calling (213) 972-4400, online at CenterTheatreGroup.org or by visiting the Center Theatre Group box office located at the Ahmanson Theatre. 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.

CAST BIOGRAPHIES The Four Seasons

Mark Ballas (Frankie Valli) has captivated audiences on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” for 18 seasons. He’s a two-time champion, nine-time finalist and 2011 Emmy nominee for his work on the show. Stage Credits: Buddy – “The Buddy Holly Story,” “Copacabana,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” He choreographed Pepsi’s Super Bowl commercial starring Sofía Vergara and the Oscar commercial for Shonda Rhimes’ “The Catch.” He is half of the duo Alexander Jean with wife BC Jean. Their debut single/EP reached #1 on iTunes’ singer/songwriter chart. Mark is an accomplished flamenco and electric guitar player. Training: The Italia Conti Performing Arts School, London. alexanderjean.net

Aaron De Jesus (Frankie Valli at certain performances). Credits: “Jersey Boys” (Joey), Disney’s “The Lion King” (Timon), “Wicked” (Averic, Boq u/s), “Monty Python's Spamalot” (Patsy), “Peter Pan” (Peter), “Little Shop of Horrors” (Seymour), “Big River” (Tom Sawyer), “Guys and Dolls” (Nicely), “Cats” (Gus), “Oliver!” (The Artful Dodger), “A Funny Thing…Forum” (Pseudolus), “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” (Joseph), “El muerto disimulado” (Clarindo), “The Crucible” (Ezekiel Cheever). aarondejesusonline.com. Instagram: @aaron.dejesus

Miguel Jarquin-Moreland (Frankie Valli at certain performances). Theatre: “Jersey Boys” (First National Tour); “Grease” (North Shore); “Buddy Holly” (Walnut St.); “Kingdom” (Old Globe); “Rent” (National Tour). Film/TV: “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” “The Great Fight,” “One Life to Live,” “At the Top of the Pyramid.” Training: B.M. in Musical Theatre from Catholic University; The Barrow Group; Margie Haber Studio.

Matthew Dailey (Tommy DeVito). Originally from Denver, Colorado, Matthew has performed professionally from the age of nine. Most recently, Matthew traveled Spain, Italy and France in “Saturday Night Fever – The Musical.” Favorite performances include “Cats (Rum Tum Tugger), “7 Brides…Brothers” (Daniel/Frank), “A Chorus Line” (Mike), “1940’s Radio Hour” (BJ Gibson), “Cinderella” (Prince), and “Viva Vegas” (Elvis). @mdailey88

Keith Hines (Nick Massi). Recent off-Broadway: “Cougar the Musical” (Buck), “Sex Tips for Straight Women From a Gay Man” (Stefan). Credits include: “Les Miz” (Enjolras, WVPT), “Camelot” (Lancelot, Pittsburgh Public Theatre), “1776” (Thomas Jefferson, Pittsburgh Public Theatre), “Urban Cowboy” (Bud, WVPT), “The Crucible” (John Proctor), “Picnic” (Hal). Master’s Degree in music, Oklahoma City University (voice: Florence Birdwell), The Studio/NY (Jayd McCarty's acting conservatory). keith-hines.com

Cory Jeacoma (Bob Gaudio). Regional: “Legally Blonde” (Warner, Fulton Theatre), “Mamma Mia!” (Sky, MSMT). Lincoln Center’s Sinatra Centennial Concert. Education: BFA in Musical Theatre from Pace University 2016. Twitter/Instagram @cocojeacoco

Catch a sneak peek of Jersey Boys! Log on to www.JerseyBoysTour.com/watch.

March 31, 2017
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Center Theatre Group Presents College & Career Fair for the Arts

Center Theatre Group — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS “COLLEGE & CAREER FAIR FOR THE ARTS” SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017, AT THE MUSIC CENTER ANNEX

Free Workshops, College Counseling and More Offered to High School Students

Center Theatre Group invites current high school students, parents and teachers to attend the second annual “College & Career Fair for the Arts” on Saturday, April 22, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Music Center Annex located at 601 W. Temple St. in Downtown L.A. Center Theatre Group will also be hosting the previously announced “Going Pro Career Fair” for college and university students on Saturday, April 8, 2017, at East Los Angeles College. Both events will give students the opportunity to explore education and career opportunities in the arts.

Center Theatre Group’s “College & Career Fair for the Arts” is intended to help students navigate the transition from high school to college, and learn more about careers in the arts. More than 30 colleges, universities and organizations will be in attendance including the University of Southern California (USC), the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Fashion Careers International and more. The fair will include free workshops, a food truck with free lunch (12 to 2 p.m.) and opportunities for one-on-one college counseling and personal statement help.

The free workshops will give students the opportunity to learn about the college application process and what admissions staff are looking for; the FAFSA (Federal Application for Student Aid), student loans, scholarships and financial aid; and hear from professional theatre artists across the field, from designers to actors. Workshops are open to students only.

The schedule for the free workshops is as follows:

10 a.m. Applying for College

11 a.m. Paying for College

Ask Me Anything Workshops:

1:30 pm. Design, Tech & Stage Management

2:15 p.m. Acting

3 p.m. What should I major in?

3:45 p.m. How do you find work as a theatre artist?

The “College & Career Fair for the Arts” and “Going Pro Career Fair” are presented by Center Theatre Group’s Education and Community Partnerships department. Currently one of the most active theatre education programs in the country, Education and Community Partnerships has reached more than 18,000 students, teachers and community members throughout Southern California in the 2015-2016 season. To stay informed about Center Theatre Group’s latest offerings, students ages 13 to 23 can sign up for the Student Body mailing list. Student Body members hear about free workshops, specially priced ticket offers and chances to mingle with peers at events designed for, by and about the next generation.

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.

To RSVP to Center Theatre Group’s “College & Career Fair for the Arts,” students should email StudentBody@CTGLA.org with the following information: the student’s full name, grade and school; which discussions they would like to attend; and if they are interested in participating in a 20-minute session with a college counselor or personal statement expert. Those who RSVP in advance will receive a free gift upon entry. For more information about Center Theatre Group’s “College & Career Fair for the Arts,” the “Going Pro Career Fair” and other upcoming student events, please visit https://www.centertheatregroup.org/programs/students-and-educators/teen-and-college-initiatives/upcoming-student-events/.

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March 31, 2017

'Into the Woods' Opens at the Ahmanson Theatre

Center Theatre Group — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0700

“INTO THE WOODS” OPENS APRIL 5 AT CENTER THEATRE GROUP/AHMANSON THEATRE

ACCLAIMED FIASCO THEATER PRODUCTION PREVIEWS APRIL 4 AND CONTINUES THROUGH MAY 14, 2017

The acclaimed Fiasco Theater production of “Into the Woods” opens April 5, 2017, at 8 p.m. at Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre and plays through May 14, 2017, with one preview performance on April 4. The celebrated new production of 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.

This wildly inventive ensemble piece features versatile actor/musicians who sing, act and play instruments, including Anthony Chatmon II as Lucinda/Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince, Eleasha Gamble as Baker’s Wife, Evan Harrington as Baker, Lisa Helmi Johanson as Little Red Ridinghood/Rapunzel, Bonne Kramer as Cinderella’s Stepmother/Jack’s Mother, Patrick Mulryan as Jack/Steward, Darick Pead as Milky White/Florinda/Rapunzel’s Prince, Evan Rees, Music Director/Pianist, Fred Rose as Mysterious Man, Stephanie Umoh as Witch and Laurie Veldheer as Cinderella/Granny, with Joshua Archer, Sean Peter Forte, Javier Ignacio, Kate Moore and Alanna Saunders.

“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 in a witty and wild theatrical reinvention of a beloved modern classic.

Scenic design for “Into the Woods” is by Derek McLane, costume design by Whitney Locher, lighting design by Christopher Akerlind, sound design by Darron L West and Charles Coes, orchestrations by Frank Galgano and Matt Castle, music supervision by Matt Castle and choreography is by Lisa Shriver.

The acclaimed Fiasco Theater production of “Into the Woods” is presented by the Dodgers (the Tony Award–winning producers of the original “Into the Woods” with Bernadette Peters, and of its revival with Vanessa Williams, “Jersey Boys,” “Matilda”), along with NETworks Presentations (the Lincoln Center Theater production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “War Horse”).

Unanimously revered and extended twice at Roundabout Theatre Company, “Into the Woods” became New York’s surprise hit of the 2015 season, followed by a celebrated engagement at the Menier Chocolate Factory in London. The popular film adaptation of “Into the Woods” by Walt Disney Pictures premiered in 2014 with Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp, Emily Blunt, James Corden and Anna Kendrick, and was critically and commercially successful. Already in the top five of the most successful movie musical adaptations ever, it was nominated for three Academy Awards and three Golden Globes.

Fiasco Theater is an ensemble theatre company created by graduates of the Brown University/Trinity Rep MFA acting program. Past shows include “Cymbeline” (TFANA/Barrow Street), “Into the Woods” (Roundabout, Old Globe, McCarter, Menier Chocolate Factory), “Measure for Measure” (The New Victory Theater), “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” (Folger/TFANA) and “Twelfth Night.” “Cymbeline” was presented off-Broadway twice, for nearly 200 performances, and was honored with the 2012 Off-Broadway Alliance Award for best revival. “Into the Woods” garnered the 2015 Lucille Lortel Award for Best Revival. Every year, Fiasco offers the Free Training Initiative – a three-week, conservatory-level classical acting intensive for professional actors, completely free of charge to students. Fiasco has been in residence with Duke University, Marquette University, LSU and NYU-Gallatin. Their work has been developed at the Sundance Theatre Lab, the Orchard Project, SPACE at Ryder Farm (upcoming) and the Shakespeare Society, and Fiasco has led master classes at Brown University and NYU. www.fiascotheater.com

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

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 “Into the Woods” 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 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.

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March 31, 2017

Casting Announced for Center Theatre Group's Block Party

Center Theatre Group — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 15:35:00 -0700

CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S BLOCK PARTY PRESENTING THREE LOCAL PRODUCTIONS AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE

Casting Finalized for the Remounting of Productions from Coeurage Theatre Company, The Fountain Theatre and The Echo Theater Company April 14 – May 21

Casting is finalized for three local productions being presented as part of Center Theatre Group’s inaugural Block Party: Celebrating Los Angeles Theatre. Center Theatre Group will remount Coeurage Theatre Company’s production of “Failure: A Love Story,” The Fountain Theatre’s production of “Citizen: An American Lyric” and The Echo Theater Company’s production of “Dry Land” for Block Party at the Kirk Douglas Theatre. Block Party runs April 14 through May 21. The three shows have the full support of Center Theatre Group and its staff in order to fund, stage and market each production.

“Failure: A Love Story” from Coeurage Theatre Company will begin previews April 14, open April 16 and close April 23. Written by Philip Dawkins and directed by Michael Matthews, the show 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 and lighting design is by Matthew Brian Denman. Emily Abbott is the production stage manager.

“Citizen: An American Lyric” from The Fountain Theatre will begin previews April 28, open April 30 and close May 7. Adapted for the stage by Fountain Co-Artistic Director Stephen Sachs and directed by Shirley Jo Finney, “Citizen” 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.

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 sound design is by Peter Bayne. Anastasia Coon is the movement director and Shawna Voragen is the production stage manager.

“Dry Land” from The Echo Theater Company will begin previews May 12, open on May 14 and close on May 21. Written by Ruby Rae Spiegel and directed by Alana Dietze, it is a haunting play about female friendship and an abortion that takes place in the locker room of a central Florida high school. Written when Spiegel was just 21 years old, the play is a deeply truthful portrait of the fears, hopes and bonds of teenage girls.

The cast of “Dry Land” includes Daniel Hagen, Ben Horwitz, Connor Kelly-Eiding, Teagan Rose and Jenny Soo. The cast also includes Jacqueline Besson and Alexandra Freeman as well as USC School of Dramatic Arts students Francesca O’Hern, Bukola Ogunmola, Sidne Phillips and Tessa Hope Slovis. Scenic design is by Amanda Knehans, costume design is by Elena Flores, lighting design is by Justin Huen and sound design is by Jeff Gardner. Anna Engelsman 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.”

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).

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

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” will be on 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.

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March 30, 2017

Robert Greenblatt Joins Center Theatre Group's Board

Center Theatre Group — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0700

NBC ENTERTAINMENT CHAIRMAN AND TONY AWARD WINNER ROBERT GREENBLATT JOINS CENTER THEATRE GROUP’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Center Theatre Group is pleased to welcome NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt to its Board of Directors. One of the most influential television executives of the past decade, Greenblatt is also a Tony Award-winning Broadway producer (“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder”).

“It’s an honor to join the board of Center Theatre Group,” said Greenblatt. “I’ve always been a theatre lover – from ‘Guys and Dolls’ back in high school to ‘Hairspray Live!’ on NBC – and I’m so pleased to be part of a world class organization like Center Theatre Group. I had great experiences working with Michael Ritchie and Center Theatre Group on the world premiere of ‘9 to 5: The Musical’ as well as ‘Drowsy Chaperone,’ and I look forward to doing everything I can to bring great theatre to more and more people in Los Angeles.”

“As we continue to highlight the connection between live theatre and the robust film and TV industry in our background, I cannot think of a better addition to our Board than Bob Greenblatt,” said Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Michael Ritchie. “I’ve worked with Bob on and off for more than a decade, and he is one of theatre’s great advocates. As we continue to strengthen our already wonderful Board, there is no question that we want the guy who used his role as a top TV executive to broadcast musical theatre into the homes of millions of Americans.”

Greenblatt joins a prestigious group of entertainment leaders on Center Theatre Group’s Board of Directors including Thom Beers, Susanne Daniels, Sandra Stern, Vin Di Bona, Gail Berman-Masters, Monica Horan Rosenthal and Matthew Walden.

“When Center Theatre Group was founded in 1967, entertainment leaders were well represented on our Board of Directors, including our founding President Lew Wasserman and members including George Cukor, Gene Kelly, Walter Mirisch, George Seaton, Gregory Peck and Anne Douglas,” said Kiki Ramos Gindler, President of the Board. “This recent expansion is part of our ongoing effort to grow the size of the Board, broaden its expertise and continue elevating Center Theatre Group’s position in the entertainment industry as it launches its 50th anniversary season and looks forward to the next 50 years of creating theatre locally in Los Angeles as well as nationally and internationally.”

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.

Robert Greenblatt, Chairman, NBC Entertainment

As Chairman of NBC Entertainment since 2011, Robert Greenblatt has taken NBC to the top of the television industry after a decade in last place. Under his leadership, NBC’s primetime and late night line-ups were #1 in the key 8-49 demographic for 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16.

A Golden Globe Award-winning producer (“Six Feet Under”) and Tony-winning Broadway producer (“A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder”), Greenblatt broke ground three years ago with the broadcast of NBC’s live musical “The Sound of Music Live!,” which attracted 21 million viewers and has become a yearly tradition that is now being replicated by other networks. NBC presented “The Wiz Live!” in 2015, “Hairspray Live!” in 2016, and has “Bye Bye Birdie” starring Jennifer Lopez on tap for December 2017.

Greenblatt’s relationship with Dolly Parton led to him producing the Tony-nominated Broadway hit “9 to 5: The Musical” with a score by Parton, as well as NBC’s broadcast of her telefilm “Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors.” The TV movie garnered an audience of 16 million and was followed by the sequel “Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love” in 2016. Prior to NBC, Greenblatt was responsible for the transformation of Showtime into a first-class premium cable network from 2004-10 and was one of the original architects of the Fox Broadcasting Company as head of primetime programming from 1994-97.

In 2011, Greenblatt received the Stephen F. Kolzak Award from GLAAD, and in 2016 Greenblatt was presented with The Actors Fund Medal of Honor. Greenblatt is a member of the Broadway League of Theatrical Producers, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and the Producers Guild of America.

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March 28, 2017

'Jersey Boys' Calendar Release

Center Theatre Group — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0700

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May – June 2017

EVENT:

“Jersey Boys”

Book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice

Music by Bob Gaudio

Lyrics by Bob Crewe

Choreography by Sergio Trujillo

Directed by Des McAnuff

DESCRIPTION:

The megahit, Tony Award-winning “Jersey Boys” is the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons – Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi, and how this group of blue-collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sound and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30. The show features all their hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh What A Night,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” and “Working My Way Back To You.”

DATES/TIMES:

Previews May 16 at 8 p.m. and May 17 at 2 and 8 p.m.

Opens May 18 at 8 p.m. Through June 24, 2017.

Regular Performances (May 19 – June 24):

Tuesday through Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.;

Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. No Monday performances.

Exceptions: Added 8 p.m. performance on Monday, June 19. No performances Saturday, May 20. Added 2 p.m. matinee on Thursday, May 22.

TICKET INFO:

Ticket Prices: $25 – $125 (Ticket prices are subject to change.)

Tickets are available online at CenterTheatreGroup.org, by calling Audience Services at (213) 972-4400 or in person at the Center Theatre Group Box Office. Groups: (213) 972-7231. Deaf community: Information and charge, visit CenterTheatreGroup.org/ACCESS.

LOCATION:

Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre

At The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown L.A. 90012

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March 21, 2017

Center Theatre Group Presents Going Pro Career Fair

Center Theatre Group — Mon, 20 Mar 2017 12:54:00 -0700

CENTER THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS THE “GOING PRO CAREER FAIR” SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 2017, AT EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE

CO-PRESENTED WITH LA STAGE ALLIANCE, UCLA AND USC

For Current College and University Students Interested in a Professional Theatre Career

Center Theatre Group invites current undergraduate and graduate-level college and university students to attend the “Going Pro Career Fair” on Saturday, April 8, 2017, hosted by East Los Angeles College (ELAC) from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Co-presented with LA STAGE Alliance, the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Theater, Film and Television, and the University of Southern California (USC) School of Dramatic Arts, the fair will take place at the ELAC Performing and Fine Arts Complex, 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754.

Center Theatre Group’s “Going Pro Career Fair” is intended to help current undergraduate and graduate-level students prepare for a professional theatre career. The event will include a resource fair, speed networking sessions, panel discussions and a networking mixer. The fair will feature tables hosted by graduate theatre programs, LA STAGE Alliance, Actors’ Equity and other unions to learn more about their work and the resources they offer theatre artists. Free snacks and beverages will be provided by UCLA.

The “Going Pro Career Fair” will also include a series of panel discussions. Guests are welcome to stop by at any point during the fair; however students are encouraged to RSVP to guarantee a spot. Those who RSVP in advanced will receive a free gift upon arrival at the fair.

The schedule for the panel discussions is as follows:

10:30 a.m. – 12 noon Working in Theatre Tech

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Life as an Actor

12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. Art + Business = Arts Management

1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Life as a Playwright

3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Finding Your Art: How Inspiring Theatre Artists Came of Age

Students may also participate in 20-minute speed networking sessions with theatre professionals ranging from producers to costume designers to casting directors. Professionals will review students’ resumes and portfolios, and give advice about their professional careers.

The fair will conclude with a networking mixer from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. hosted by USC. The informal mixer will give students the opportunity to meet with professionals, ask additional questions and make connections. The “Going Pro Career Fair” is co-presented by Center Theatre Group’s Education and Community Partnerships department. Currently one of the most active theatre education programs in the country, Education and Community Partnerships reached more than 18,000 students, teachers and community members throughout Southern California in the 2015-2016 season. To stay informed about Center Theatre Group’s latest offerings, students ages 13 to 23 can sign up for the Student Body mailing list. Student Body members hear about free workshops, specially priced ticket offers and chances to mingle with peers at events designed for, by and about the next generation. More information is available at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org/StudentBody.

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.

To RSVP to Center Theatre Group’s “Going Pro Career Fair,” students should email StudentBody@CTGLA.org with the following information: the student’s full name, school and year, and which discussions they would like to attend. Students interested in participating in a 20-minute speed networking session should email CSchenkkan@CTGLA.org. For more information, please call Felipe at 213.972.7587.

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March 20, 2017

'Remote L.A.' Opens at Center Theatre Group

Center Theatre Group — Mon, 13 Mar 2017 16:00:00 -0700

RIMINI PROTOKOLL’S LIVE ART WALKING EXPERIENCE “REMOTE L.A.” OPENS MARCH 14 AS PART OF CENTER THEATRE GROUP/MARK TAPER FORUM’S 50TH SEASON

“Remote L.A.” Takes Place Throughout Downtown L.A.

Currently in previews, pedestrian-based live art experience “Remote L.A.” opens Tuesday, March 14 at 4 p.m. as part of Center Theatre Group’s 50th season at the Mark Taper Forum. Created and conceived by Stefan Kaegi and Jörg Karrenbauer of international documentary theatre team Rimini Protokoll, “Remote L.A.” takes place in Downtown L.A. and will run through April 2, 2017.

Audiences will join a group of 50 people exploring Downtown Los Angeles on a guided audio tour that seems to follow them as much as they are following it. Audience members meet up, put on headphones and have their perspectives changed as they are provided with a soundtrack to the streets, sights and rooftops of Los Angeles. A computer-generated voice sets them out on a trail through the city, guiding the group’s movements in real time. The performance reveals a “secret Los Angeles,” journeying to places normally unseen, places where humans encounter their limits, places where crowds gather, back alleyways, dark hallways and common areas seen through a new lens. Participants are not just audience members, they are actors and spectators, observers and observed, individuals and a pack, all at the same time.

Helgard Kim Haug, Stefan Kaegi and Daniel Wetzel have been working as a team since 2000, and since 2002 they have written collectively under the label Rimini Protokoll. At the focus of their work is the continuous development of the tools of the theatre to allow for unusual perspectives on our reality. They have created works in dozens of cities around the world, winning the NRW Impulse Preis, the European Theatre Prize for “New Realities,” the Faust Theatre Prize and the European Prize for New Theatre Forms among others.

Jörg Karrenbauer has collaborated with Rimini Protokoll since 2003. Together with Stefan Kaegi, he has focused on site-specific projects. He has adapted Kaegi's “Remote” for more than 30 cities in Europe, India and the U.S.

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 “Remote L.A.” are available by calling (213) 628-2772, online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org or at the Center Theatre Group box office at the Ahmanson Theatre. Tickets are $39 (ticket prices are subject to change).

Because of the nature of the production, participants should be able to navigate stairs and unpaved/uneven ground conditions. All personal items must be carried, and comfortable walking shoes and clothing are highly recommended. Approximate walking time is 90 minutes and the event covers a distance of about 4 miles.

Participants must meet at the Ahmanson Box Office a half hour prior to show time. The Ahmanson Box Office is located at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown L.A. 90012. Each performance will begin at La Plaza de Cultura y Artes (501 N Main St).

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March 13, 2017

Block Party Calendar Release

Center Theatre Group — Fri, 10 Mar 2017 14:46:00 -0800

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April – May 2017

EVENT:

Block Party: Celebrating Los Angeles Theatre

First Production:

“Failure: A Love Story” from Coeurage Theatre Company

Previews April 14 and 15, 2017. Opens April 16 at 6:30 p.m. Through April 23.

by Philip Dawkins

Directed by Michael Matthews

Second Production:

“Citizen: An American Lyric” from The Fountain Theatre

Previews April 28 and 29, 2017. Opens April 30 at 6:30 p.m. Through May 7.

by Claudia Rankine

Adapted for the stage by Stephen Sachs

Directed by Shirley Jo Finney

Third Production:
“Dry Land” from The Echo Theater Company

Previews May 12 and 13, 2017. Opens May 14 at 6:30 p.m. Through May 21.

By Ruby Rae Spiegel

Directed by Alana Dietze

DESCRIPTIONS:

Center Theatre Group’s inaugural Block Party highlights some of the remarkable work being done on other stages throughout Los Angeles by fully producing three previously staged productions.

First Production: “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.

Second Production: “Citizen: An American Lyric” is a meditation on race that fuses poetry, prose, movement, music and the video image. It is a provocative stage adaptation of Claudia Rankine’s internationally acclaimed book of poetry about everyday acts of racism in America.

Third Production: “Dry Land” is a haunting play about female friendship and an abortion that takes place in the locker room of a central Florida high school. Written when Spiegel was just 21 years old and still an undergraduate at Yale, the play is a deeply truthful portrait of the fears, hopes and bonds of teenage girls — as gut-wrenching as it is funny.

DATES/TIMES:

Preview Performances: Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.

Regular Performances: Tuesday through Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. No Monday performances.

TICKET INFO:

Ticket Prices: $25 – $70 (Ticket prices are subject to change.)

Tickets are available online at CenterTheatreGroup.org, by calling Audience Services at (213) 628-2772 or in person at the Center Theatre Group box office (at the Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center in downtown Los Angeles) or at the Kirk Douglas Theatre box office two hours prior to performances. Groups: (213) 972-7231. Deaf community: Information and charge, visit CenterTheatreGroup.org/ACCESS.

LOCATION:

Center Theatre Group’s Kirk Douglas Theatre

9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232

Ample free parking and restaurants adjacent.

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March 10, 2017

Cast Announced For 'Archduke' At The Taper

Center Theatre Group — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0800

*REVISED

CAST ANNOUNCED 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 has announced the casting for the world premiere of “Archduke” by Rajiv Joseph. Directed by Giovanna Sardelli, “Archduke” begins previews April 25, opens May 7 and continues through June 4, 2017, at the Mark Taper Forum.

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.

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 and casting by Telsey + Company.

“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.

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 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.

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March 9, 2017/Revised April 17