In Conversation with Mrs. Robinson

What drew you to The Graduate?
The role of Mrs. Robinson. I loved the movie, and she is an icon. The first cougar. An archetype.

Barbara Malangoni with co-star Dean Perrine at the Bon Femme for the Opening Night celebration.What is your experience with the material? Have you ever seen the play? The movie?
I had never read the play. I had seen the movie--a couple of times. I loved it.

What do you think makes this story such an American classic?
First of all--it is edgy. It explores all kinds of things that were hovering around the periphery of discussion in the 1960s: sex, the youth movement, the breaking with conformity, post adolescent angst. These are all things that the previous generation did not have time to do...because they were too busy trying to survive and make a living/life. The character Mrs. Robinson is very well known in both theatre and film - does that affect your approach to the role at all? Yes and no. I loved Ann Bancroft in the movie, but I think the script for the play lends itself to a whole character, while the movie--though it tried not to in a couple of scenes--made Mrs. R. two dimensional at best. Mrs. R. is a real person. She is just trying to survive.

What are some elements to the CST production of The Graduate that you think add a different or fresh twist to a well-known story?
Well, Mrs. R., for example, has redemptive qualities, and we get to see what transpires between Elaine and Benjamin after the wedding. They are not just on a bus with stunned looks on their faces.

What are your thoughts on the cast and crew?
This cast and crew are second to none. I love them all. They all worked very hard to make this show a success. I couldn't be happier with all of them.

What can audiences expect from this production?
Everything they got from the movie x 10

What makes Chicago Street Theatre such a unique venue?
It is intimate, edgy, and dedicated to making Live Art. All who see this show will come away happier for it.

Texting with Director-Designer Martin Weisenbacher

Posted by Artistic Chair Traci Brant

Martin Weisenbacher is a man of few words.  As I observed him direct at The Graduate dress rehearsal last night, he was incredibly focused and intent on making his vision a reality. He rushed around putting final touches on the set until just moments before the first scene began. During the run, he feverishly took notes and moved around the auditorium to take in the work from different vantage points. His passion and intensity for this work is palpable. CST is lucky to have him on this project.  

Marty, in addition to directing, is also the set designer for The Graduate.  He was kind enough to share a few... and, I do mean few... words with us about the set via text:

What excited you about working on the set for The Graduate?
I love teaming up with Mary Bird on shows. We have the same type of mind-set creatively.

What was your vision when you started the set design?
I focused on painting the stage with light so the set is designed to facilitate that.

What were some of the challenges of designing this set?
Trying to figure out how to depict all the different locations in the play in one confined area.

What are your favorite aspects of this particular set?
I loved building the Murphy bed and the louvered panels.

What do you think will most stand out to the audience when they see the set?
The minimalism.

Were there any advantages to creating this set on the CST stage?
The supportive effort of the CST members assisting with the build.

How important are CST volunteers when building a set?
Mel McColley was invaluable to us. His years of experience and willingness to help with anything was our biggest asset. 

15 years on Chicago Street. Production No. 289

Posted by CST historian Marcia Burbage

A LOOK BACK….

The Graduate , opening April 12, 2013, will be the 289th major production presented by the Community Theatre Guild.  Just 15 years ago, on April 1, 1998, CTG came into possession of the Assembly of God Church.  The first play produced in the newly named Chicago Street Theatre was Greater Tuna on April 12, 1998…major production number 192.

Of course, besides these 97 major plays, there have been many other productions presented in these 15 years – 14 Popcorn Festival children’s shows;  20 some other productions for children and young people;  around 10 guest presentations (Valpo Reads a Book, African-American Weekend, St. Paul Catholic School);  some 20 One-Night Jams (guest musicians who concerts). . . .

All in all Chicago Street theatre has been a very busy place, and it doesn’t look like events will slow down any time soon!

The building was transformed from a church into a theatre over a short time – about 7 months – but other improvements followed intermittently.  

Tune in for more historical musings in the coming weeks.

Painting the 59th Season

Posted by CST member Eric Brant

Once again I have the great privilege of being asked to create images for Chicago Street's 59th season. Creating the paintings for the last two seasons has been an exciting honor. As an illustrator, seeing my paintings on billboards and on the sides of buses has been a thrilling experience. The new season was announced a few weeks ago by our Artistic Committee and I was really excited to start thinking about what kind of artwork would best represent this marvelous array of productions CST will be offering audiences in 2013 and 2014. 

I always look at the making of these illustrations as a multi-layered problem solving challenge. While I am familiar with the most of material being done, many of our perspective audience members probably aren't. So one of the avenues I approach first is how to convey the meat of the show, or it's feel, to someone that's never heard of the play. The task last season was maybe a little easier just from the standpoint that many of the shows are attached with some pretty iconic moments. I mean you paint Maria singing on a mountain for The Sound of Music and Mrs. Robinson's leg in there for The Graduate... right? So the more difficult ideas come from what kind of image works for plays like Rabbit Hole or The Beauty Queen of Leenane? Both plays deal with some pretty intense subjects and that is something I definitely need to deliver in the artwork, but also from a marketing perspective, I have to create an illustration that will get someone to take a chance on a drama or black comedy that they don't know.

Another challenge I face as an illustrator is with plays or material the audience is familiar with. As an actor and a director at Chicago Street one of the aspects that I love about our company, is that we take risks in putting our unique stamp or spin on the shows that people know and love. In creating images for Romeo and Juliet, Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde, and Woody Allen's Play It Again Sam, I had the opportunity to talk with the other directors about their take on their shows and how they wanted their production to be. This was very informing in terms of what the illustration for the show might look like. Bob Cooley, Jason Utesch and I are all very passionate directors, who have very strong ideas about how we want to make our shows stand out from productions people have seen before. 

Once I start gathering information on the productions I usually look over the scripts being used and then start doing sketches and thumbnail drawings. I think a lot about the mood of the piece and the director's concepts to inform colors or textures that I will want to incorporate into the paintings. The format we've been using for the last two seasons has been a vertical image created on a 12" X 24" canvas. The paintings are primarily done in acrylics but I also explore mixed media elements to create a unique look for each production. I gather reference pictures, photos inspirations, found objects and papers that I might collage into the image. Just like our productions, the art has many layers. While we try to offered a solid season of eclectic works I also put some consideration to how the paintings work as a whole.

In the next few weeks, I hope to check in with where the images are at and, possibly, a "Step By Step" blog on one of the images as I work on it. While the majority of the season has been announced, we're still waiting to find out what a couple of the productions will be from the Artistic Committee. Keep checking into our blog for more on "How we make the Art" at Chicago Street Theatre!

Re-imagining a Classic

Barbara Malangoni (Mrs. Robinson) and Dean Perrine (Benjamin)Posted by Director Mary A. Bird

Not many stories define an era as well as The Graduate. The film was released in 1967 to critical acclaim and has been a touchstone of pop culture ever since.  The Graduate received new life in 2000 when it was adapted for the stage by Terry Johnson, and I was thrilled when the CST's Artistic Committee approached me to direct it.

The Graduate tells the story of Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate who returns home with new clear idea of what to do with his life. He becomes involved with the wife of his father’s business partner, the iconic Mrs. Robinson character, but soon finds himself falling for her daughter. 

I wanted to re-look at a classic... breath new life into it. I'm confident that our production of the show will offer a fresh take on the material. We want it to be a unique experience for both audience members who are familiar with the story, and those who are seeing it for the first time. There are new scenes that have nothing to do with the movie and there are different nuances. 

As we embark upon tech week, I am thrilled with the incredible work this cast and crew have accomplished so far and I know we will be ready to share the play with audiences this Friday.

A Peek at Graduate Rehearsal

Posted by Artistic Chair Traci Brant.

It's a frightening proposition to present a play that happens to also be one of the most iconic films of all time. When the artistic committee decided to produce The Graduate that was certainly a major cause for concern. Admittedly, I continued to be a bit worried about it ... that is until I watched rehearsal last night.

Barbara Malangoni as Mrs. Robinson and Dean Perrine as BenjaminAs actors Barbara Malangoni (Mrs. Robinson) and Dean Perrine (Benjamin) rehearsed the iconic seduction scene, a huge smile spread across my face. The wonderful, rich characters and the witty, sometimes biting, dialogue is even more thrilling when you sit just a few feet from this quintessential scene in Chicago Street's intimate auditorium. The scene was so thrilling in part because directors Mary A. Bird and Martin Weisenbacher have absolutely nailed the casting with Barb and Dean. They are in no way doing a cheap imitation of the film actors' portrayals. They are breathing their own life into the incredible characters that were first brought to life in pages of Charles Webb's 1963 novel. The dialogue was crisp and humorous with dark undertones--like it leapt off the pages of the novel. 

Director Mary A. Bird (in her signature jammie pants)I can't imagine how enjoyable the scene will be once the actors have refined their roles, added the 1960's costumes (in this case a wet suit and a slip), lights, set, and music.   Directors Mary and Marty are passionate about this piece (it's one of the reasons CST was persuaded to produce it). They know this play, these characters, and the time period well so we're in good hands.

Tomorrow night The Graduate actors and directors will share their thoughts on camera. Matt Pera will be putting together a video in the next week so you can get your own sneak peak into the process. 

Yes, the film was incredibly stylish and unique, but I think audiences are going to find that the stage play at Chicago Street has its own rewards. 

One Night Jam Brings a Taste of Moscow to Valpo

In October of 2011, we re-started our "One Night Jam" concert series by bringing Russian/American singer/songwriter Marina V to our newly-remodeled Edith Wood studio theatre. It was a great experience, both for the audience and for Moscow-born Marina and her husband Nick.  

On Sunday, April 14th Marina and Nick will be returning, only this time to the main stage downstairs, touring in support of her brand-new album, "Inner Superhero." 

"We're both really excited to be coming back to CST," Marina told me.  "You've been so supportive of our music, we look forward to playing there again."

Marina's voice ranges from quiet and introspective to soaring and powerful, just like her songs.  If you need someone to compare her to, think of either Tori Amos or Amy Lee of Evanescence, but with a much more melodic, pop-oriented flavor.  Verenikina (her actual last name) is a classically-trained pianist, and the show would be worth the ticket price simply to hear her play.

But it's her voice and the songs she writes with Nick that are the real shining stars of any performance.  So much so that her fans have completely funded her last two albums, and they do it gladly.  I know my wife and I kicked in twice - we love her music that much.

She's played concerts around the globe to critical acclaim. and we're lucky enough to have her stop at our theatre again.  Check the concert page for more information and videos of Marina.

One Night Jam is another side of Chicago Street Theatre.  Roughly once a month throughout the year, we bring some of the finest singer/songwriters in the world to our comfortable, intimate little theatre.  ONJ is all about respect.   Respect for the songs, respect for the artist, respect for the audience.  It's very different than the club scene - people aren't milling around, talking, often louder than the band.  This is a chance to truly appreciate what the artist is bringing, and, believe me, they appreciate you right back.

If you saw Marina in 2011, please tell all your friends about what they missed.  If you've never seen her before, please trust me on this.  Marina is as talented as she is charming, and you will come away a new fan.  Live music is just another form of theatre - come experience this other side of Chicago Street Theatre.

--  Paul Braun, Production Manager
One Night Jam Concert Series

Party this Friday!

Chicago Street is very thankful for its members and patrons who generously give time, talent, and funds to support theatre in our community. We can't make great art without you! Now, we need your help to make a great event! 

This Friday, we're asking you to support CST's biggest FUNdraiser of the year--Vegas, Baby!  Your theatre DEPENDS on this event to raise enough money to produce the ART.  Over the years, we've redesigned the event to make it more fun and more affordable. We've made every effort to lower ticket prices so as many people as possible can join us for the biggest party of the year. Tickets are as low as we possibly can make them--$25 in advance and $30 at the door.

Chicago Street can't do this without you! 

Please purchase a ticket, bring friends, give an auction item, and/or volunteer at the event.  Even volunteers at the event are asked to purchase a ticket to cover the cost of the food, venue, and entertainment... and to support Chicago Street.  

We know you already give so much, but we hope you can come party with us on Friday at Strongbows!  We promise a terrific of evening casino games, Martinis & Martin Binder, live entertainment from The DJayma Show, a photo booth, fabulous silent auction, and appetizers. 

You can also support CST by sharing information about Vegas, Baby! with friends via email and social networks, or if you can't make it, consider making an online donation--every little bit helps bring the art to our stage!

Please support CST by attending Vegas, Baby! this Friday!
Kelly

 or

CST's Vegas Not Just for Gamblers

Posted by Kelly Hite, Director of Development

Preparations for CST's biggest fundraiser of the year are in full swing this week! This is a crazy time for our staff and volunteers.  We have 2 shows in rehearsal--The Graduate and A View from the Bridge--and our usual busy line-up of kids' classes. Last night as we were working on the final line-up for the event on Friday, I was struck by how much more this evening has to offer than blackjack and craps. Everyone knows that there will be gaming, so I thought I'd highlight all the other fun to be had at Friday's party.

MARTINIS and MARTIN BINDER: For several years, CST has been very fortunate to have the support of Martin Binder Jeweler. They've donated a gorgeous necklace valued at $1300 for the event on Friday. By purchasing a Glowing Martini attendees will get a chance to win a designer pendant with forty-six round brilliant cut diamonds. And, new this year, with every glass you also receive a Martin Binder gift certificate for $50 off a $100 purchase.  And, the drinks are delicious!

THE SPOTLIGHT LOUNGE: We're stepping up the live entertainment portion of the event with the DJayma Show. DJ Halicky is a songwriter/arranger for the dynamic duo and Jayma Kay Emerson is the DIVA. Together the powerhouse vocal style is best described as VOCAL PYROTECNICS. They are so entertaining! The fun they have on stage is contagious. Here are some of the songs they have planned for Friday: It Had to Be You, Try a Little Tenderness, It's Still Rock and Roll to Me, I'm a Believer, and a "performance piece" of Bohemian Rhapsody that's not to be missed.  We've set up a lounge area near the fireplace at Strongbows where guests can enjoy the show. 

PHOTO BOOTH: I'm amazed at how much fun guests have at a photo booth... you know the kind you remember from the mall when you were in high-school.  People have an absolute blast (more so after a few Martin Binder Martinis).  Complete with crazy props and photos to take home as a souvenir.

SILENT AUCTION: We have something for everyone in our silent auction. Where else can you shop with live entertainment in the background and a cocktail in hand! For many guests this is the highlight of the evening. We have Bears tickets, Sox and Cubs tickets, tons of dining certificates, beautiful artwork, Disney passes, Beer and Wine baskets, and so much more.  

GREAT FOOD and GOOD CONVERSATION: Strongbows makes the BEST appetizers for us! This year's selections include bruschetta, mini buns with turkey, ham, and roast beef, cheese tortellini alfredo, Swedish meatballs and more! Grab some food and enjoy the entertainment while you chat with friends.

I sincerely believe our guests will have a wonderful time this year whether they hit the gaming tables or not!  

Chatting w/ Actor Dean Perrine (Benjamin)

What drew you to The Graduate?

I really was attracted to the complexity of the characters. It's most certainly outside my comfort zone and tackling these subjects - in these situations - I knew would be a challenge. A good one. And a scary one.

What is your experience with the material? Have you ever seen the play? The movie?

Here it comes...

I haven't seen the movie or the play. Of course I'm familiar with the story and some of the themes, I mean, who at my age (not telling), isn't? I did sit down right after I was cast to watch the movie...but decided against it. I suppose if I didn't have the talented direction and cast around me I'd be more inclined to study the film, but I thought, 'let's just see how things fall into place.' It really only took a few read-throughs to see that the character nuances are on the page.

I fully intend on watching the film after the show opens and hope to become Mr. Magorium as soon as I am able. **tongue placed firmly in cheek**

What do you think makes this story such an American classic?

Universal themes (uncertainty / fulfillment / love / regret / hope). It's exciting and dangerous! It's a 1960s full length Springer episode, with a great soundtrack.  But mostly the themes...

The character Benjamin is very well known in both theatre and film - does that affect your approach to the role at all?

No. To be the cliche' - I'm simply looking and working for honesty. Lame, but nonetheless true. 

What are some elements to the CST production of The Graduate that you think add a different or fresh twist to a well-known story?

This is a tough one given that so much of what the show will be is developing now. But we bring our own baggage, our own stories. Mary and Marty (and Auriel) have put the cast in position to use our collective experiences to find the show. It's not a twist necessarily, but perhaps the freedom from prescription. I think the show will feel different simply because we're creating, not re-creating. That sounds lame-o. But I think that's what I think. 

What are your thoughts on the cast and crew?

Two words: Professional. Goofballs.

What can audiences expect from this production?

They can expect a quality production, top to bottom. My hope is that audiences will be challenged to find some reason and meaning behind the decisions made by each character - to see past the compromising situations and maybe even empathize with these characters.  Who am I kidding? I want and expect them to be entertained. That will do. 

What makes Chicago Street Theatre a unique venue?

Superb facility, top notch shows, clean bathrooms and excellent popcorn.