FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: Upstage Productions, the brand-new theatre company founded by Actress, Auctioneer, and Business Woman Janice Hamilton, will debut at Empire Stage on October 10th with Ira Levin’s classic comedy-thriller Deathtrap.
Hamilton and director Deborah (DK) Kondelik have assembled a talented cast to take on Levin’s twist-filled comical suspense ride which focuses on Sidney Bruhl, a previously successful playwright who will stop at nothing to regain his status.
Larry Buzzeo will take on the role of Sidney Bruhl, and Om Jae will play Clifford Anderson, the student Bruhl lures to his home with promises of help with his own play. Also cast are Michele Verdi as Bruhl’s wife Myra, Betsy Bittar as the psychic Helga Ten Dorp, and Matthew Pyle as attorney Porter Milgrim.
“Our vision at Upstage Productions is simple yet ambitious,” Hamilton says. “To bring audiences a wide variety of stories – dramas, comedies, musicals, revues, mysteries, and classics – that both resonate deeply and entertain joyfully.
“With Deathtrap, we begin that journey in the perfect way: a play that blends wit, suspense, and surprise, reminding us of the enduring power of live theatre to captivate and connect. But this is only the beginning. In the near future, we look forward to offering theatre classes for teens and adults, creating opportunities for growth, expression, and community engagement.”
“What makes a thriller so irresistible?” Director Kondelik asks. “Perhaps it’s the delicious tension of not knowing what’s around the corner – or the guilty pleasure of being one step ahead of the characters on stage.
“As a director, what excites me most about thrillers is the shared experience they create. Suspense is never a solitary emotion – an audience gasps together, laughs nervously together, even holds its collective breath together. That communal heartbeat is why these stories endure, why we return to them, and why Deathtrap remains one of the greatest examples of theatrical thrills.”
Deathtrap will run at Empire Stage from October 10th through November 2nd. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at https://upstageproductions.net or by calling 954-264-1461.
For more information about Upstage Productions, or Deathtrap, to speak with Janice Hamilton, or to arrange to see a performance, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.
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Deathtrap By Ira Levin October 10 – November 2 Directed by Deborah Kondelik Tickets: $40 For tickets: https://upstageproductions.net Phone: 954-264-1461 Performances: Friday & Saturday at 8 pm Sunday at 5 pm All performances will take place at Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
(Click on each image to enlarge it, then right click on the enlarged image and ‘save image as’ or ‘copy image’)
Photos by Amy Pasquantonio:
Om Jae & Larry BuzzeoBetsy BittarLarry BuzzeoOm JaeLarry BuzzeoLarry Buzzeo & Michele VerdiMIchele Verdi & Larry BuzzeoLarry BuzzeoOm Jae, Matthew Pyle, Larry BuzzeoBetsy Bittar & Michele VerdiOm Jae & Larry BuzzeoBetsy Bittar & Matthew Pyle
Photos by David Bishop:
The Cast of DeathtrapMIchele VerdiBetsy BittarOm JaeMatthew PyleMichele Verdi, Betsy Bittar, Larry BuzzeoLarry BuzzeoOm JaeMichele VerdiBetsy BittarMatthew PyleJanice HamiltonDeborah Kondelik
Below is a list of the theatre productions currently scheduled for the 2025-2026 season.
Tickets are on sale now for all these productions.
Please note that this list and these productions are subject to change, and that there will possibly be additions and rescheduling as time goes by! Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you need more information about any of these theatre companies and/or shows.
2025-2026 THEATRE PRODUCTION SCHEDULES for Entr’Acte Theatrix Upstage Productions Pigs Do Fly Productions Hy Juter Presents Off Glades Theater Company Thinking Cap Theatre My Son the Waiter
ENTR’ACTE THEATRIX The Rocky Horror Show By Richard O’Brien October 10 – 26 The Rocky Horror Show is an outrageous assemblage of – and humorous tribute to – the most stereotypical science fiction and horror movies, Marvel comics, Frankie Avalon/Annette Funicello outings and rock ‘n’ roll of every vintage. The play (upon which the classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show is based) has grown from an experimental production originally produced in a small London theatre in June 1973, to a cult phenomenon with fans world-wide. The quintessential audience participation show, the musical tells the story of a newly engaged couple who, when caught in a storm, find refuge in the home of a decidedly unusual scientist who is madly working towards unveiling his latest and greatest creation. Tickets: $50 Premium seating $35 Standard seating $25 Value seating For tickets: https://linktr.ee/entractetheatrix Phone: 561-386-0045 Performances: Fridays & Saturdays at 7 pm Saturdays at 11 pm Sundays at 7 pm All performances will take place at The Cast Theatre (formerly Standing Ovations) 7429 Military Trail Lake Worth, Florida, 33463
UPSTAGE PRODUCTIONS Deathtrap By Ira Levin October 10 – November 2 In Ira Levin’s Deathtrap, Sidney Bruhl, a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, is prepared to go to any length and use any devious machinations to improve his fortunes. Deathtrap is an ingeniously constructed play that offers a rare and skillful blend of gasp-producing thrills and raucous laughter. It provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be spellbound until the very last moment. Directed by Deborah Kondelik Tickets: $40 For tickets: https://upstageproductions.net Phone: 954-264-1461 Performances: Friday & Saturday at 8 pm Sunday at 5 pm All performances will take place at Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
THINKING CAP THEATRE Lizzie, The Musical Music and Lyrics by Steven Cheslik-deMeyer Lyrics, Book, and Additional Music by Tim Maner Music and Additional Lyrics by Alan Stevens Hewitt October 18 – November 1 In October 2025, just in time for Halloween season, TCT will present Lizzie, The Musical, a provocative and pulsating musical exploration of the legendary 1892 trial of Lizzie Borden, who was accused (and ultimately acquitted) of brutally murdering her parents with an axe. Lizzie, The Musical offers up a delicious blend of history and anachronism in its exploration of Lizzie’s oppressive upbringing, troubled relationship with her father, and unapologetic defiance of Victorian norms and courtroom accusations. Fueled by a searing rock score, raw emotion, and dark humor, Lizzie, The Musical is a blistering portrait of one of America’s most infamous figures. Directed by Nicole Stodard Tickets: $45 (plus service charges) For Tickets: https://thinkingcaptheatre.org or Phone: 310-500-6448 Performances: Saturday, October 18 at 8 pm Sunday, October 19 at 6 pm Wednesday, October 22 at 7 pm Saturday, October 25 at 3 pm Sunday, October 26 at 6 pm Wednesday, October 29 at 7 pm Friday, October 31 at 8 pm Saturday, November 1 at 8 pm All performances will take place at The Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center 1770 Monroe Street, Hollywood, FL 33020
Cymbeline By William Shakespeare December 5 – 14 In December 2025, TCT will present Cymbeline, which scholars affectionately refer to as Shakespeare’s “kitchen sink” play because of its wildly diverse stylistic elements, from history and romance to tragedy and comedy. Peter Wayne Galman, a veteran actor of TV, film, and the stage as well as the Founding Artistic Director South Florida Shakespeare Troupe, will play the title role. Never liked Shakespeare? Never seen Shakespeare performed live? This anarchic and presciently modern work by the Bard is a great place to start (again). There will be a ‘Talk Back’ after the 6 pm (closing) performance on Sunday, December 14th. Directed by Nicole Stodard Tickets: $45 (plus service charges) For Tickets: https://thinkingcaptheatre.org or Phone: 310-500-6448 Performances: Friday, December 5 at 7 pm Saturday, December 6 at 7 pm Sunday, December 7 at 6 pm Wednesday, December 10 at 7 pm Saturday, December 13 at 7 pm Sunday, December 14 at 7 pm All performances will take place at The Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center 1770 Monroe Street, Hollywood, FL 33020
PIGS DO FLY PRODUCTIONS Better Late By Larry Gelbart & Craig Wright November 7 – 30 Reluctant roommates: Julian is forced to move in with his ex-wife Nora and her new husband, composer Lee Baer, in order to recuperate from a sudden illness. With each passing day, the awkward situation spirals further and further out of control. As the laughter builds, the question becomes: how long will Julian have to stay? This bitingly funny December-December-December romance is a breezy entertainment with serious themes as it “explores love, divorce, aging, and death with a mature sensibility and a decidedly comedic tone.” (Variety) Directed by Deborah Kondelik Tickets: $45 For tickets: https://pigsdoflyproductions.com Phone: 954-678-1496 Performances: Friday at 8 pm Saturday & Sunday at 5 pm All performances will take place at Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Bonnie and Claire By Bo Wilson March 13 – April 5, 2026 Bo Wilson’s play tells the story of two estranged sisters now living together 45 years after Claire left home as a teenager to pursue an acting career while leaving Bonnie behind to take care of their parents. With the assistance of their niece, the sisters try to reconcile their differences while dealing with their own issues. Bonnie and Claire is a gentle and humorous journey through the pitfalls of aging, agency, and admitting when we need someone. Directed by Deborah Kondelik Tickets: $45 For tickets: https://pigsdoflyproductions.com Phone: 954-678-1496 Performances: Friday at 8 pm Saturday & Sunday at 5 pm All performances will take place at Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
HY JUTER PRESENTS To Life 6 – Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers, Artists, & Comedians to Broadway & Hollywood. Written, directed, and hosted by Shari Upbin. Musical direction by Aidan Quintana January 16 – February 8, 2026 The popular series returns to the Willow Theatre with more stories and music celebrating the contributions of Jewish composers and artists to Broadway and the great Hollywood musicals. Featuring amusing anecdotes, fascinating facts, and stunning performances honoring the composers and entertainers such as Burt Bacharach, Neil Sedaka, Stephen Sondheim, Mel Brooks, Barbra Streisand, and many more. Featuring Shelley Keelor, Shane Tanner, Kate Delaney, and Bruno Faria. Tickets: $46 ($42 Group Rate – 6 or more tickets purchased in a single transaction) For tickets & Information: https://www.myboca.us/2647/To-Life-6 Phone: 567-347-3948 Performance days and times: Friday and Saturday at 7 pm Saturday and Sunday at 1 pmAll performances will take place at The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park 300 S. Military Trail Boca Raton, FL 33486
OFF GLADES THEATER COMPANY [title of show] Music and Lyrics by Jeff Bowen Book by Hunter Bell February 13 – March 1, 2026 Jeff and Hunter, two struggling writers, hear about a new musical theatre festival. However, the deadline for submissions is a mere three weeks away. With nothing to lose, the pair decides to try to create something new with the help of their friends Susan, Heidi and Larry on the eighty-eights. With the cast in place, Jeff and Hunter begin a conversation about what to write about. Eventually, Jeff suggests they write about what to write about. They make a pact to write up until the festival’s deadline and dream about the show changing their lives. [title of show] — taken from the space on the festival’s application form which asks for the “[title of show]”. Directed by Jodie Langel Tickets: $35 Group rates available For tickets & Information: https://www.myboca.us/2648/Title-of-Show 561-347-3948 Performance days and times: Friday and Saturday at 7 pm Saturday and Sunday at 1 pm All performances will take place at The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park 300 S. Military Trail Boca Raton, FL 33486
MY SON THE WAITER: A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy& STILL Not Famous is the continuation of the story of comedian/actor/raconteur Brad Zimmerman’s struggle to fulfill his dream and ‘make it’ as a comedic actor in New York. One-part standup, one-part theatrical, and all parts uproarious, Zimmerman celebrates his 10th year on the road (with his original show, My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy) with this brand-new production – once again detailing his search for success in show business and “the parents who suffered through it”.
My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy By Brad Zimmerman December 6 & 7 Tickets: $45-$65 Phone: 1-561-586-6410 Online: https://www.mysonthewaiter.com Group Rates (12 +): 1–888-264-1788 Showtimes: Saturday at 2 pm & 7:30 pm Sunday at 2 pm The Lake Worth Playhouse 713 Lake Avenue Lake Worth, FL 33460
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: Janice Hamilton – Actress, Singer, Auctioneer, and Business Woman, will add Producer to her resume when Upstage Productions – her brand-new theatre company – debuts with Ira Levin’s Deathtrap at Empire Stage this fall. The show will run from October 10th through November 2ndat the popular Fort Lauderdale venue.
Ira Levin’s (Rosemary’s Baby) Deathtrap is an ingeniously constructed play that offers a rare and skillful blend of gasp-producing thrills and raucous laughter. It provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in abundance as it follows the machinations of Sidney Bruhl, a writer of thrillers, whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths and use any devious means to improve his fortunes.
Janice Hamilton, through her company Hamilton Fundraising Auctions, has raised millions of dollars for hundreds of not-for-profit organizations and causes over the past thirty years. She also has an impressive film, television, and theatrical resume and has been featured in numerous productions throughout South Florida. Some of her credits include City of Angels and Crazy for You (Jupiter Theatre); RX and Gingerbread Lady (Boca Stage); The Savannah Sipping Society, Morning After Grace, The Long Weekend (Pigs Do Fly Productions), Don’t Dress for Dinner (Caldwell Theatre); Hotel on Marvin Gardens (Actor’s Playhouse); Mystery of Love & Sex (Primal Forces); Anton in Show Business (Red Barn Theatre); Dames at Sea (Shores Performing Arts); and Menopause, theMusical (G-Four Productions). She toured the US in the award-winning comedy Viagra Falls opposite Harold Gould and appeared Off-Broadway in The Dutchman and Be Happy ForMe. Her television and film credits include As the World Turns, Miami Sands, Boynton Beach Club, LostEverything, Life’s a Drag, and Just My Type, and the Hallmark film A Royal Makeover, which was recently released on Amazon Prime.
“I chose Deathtrap as our opening production because I adore the murder-mystery genre and thought the timing was perfect in conjunction with Halloween”, Hamilton says. “Plus, Deathtrap is a comedy and pure escapism, something I believe is we all need in the present social climate.”
Deathtrap will be directed by Hamilton’s long-time collaborator DK Kondelik, who has also agreed to act as prop master and set dresser for the production.
Kondelik shares Upstage Productions’ artistic philosophy: “Whether on stage or in the classroom, we strive for artistic excellence that entertains, challenges, and inspires. Our mission is to celebrate the joy of live performance while elevating voices and provoking meaningful dialogue,” she says.
Deathtrap will run at Empire Stage from October 10th through November 2nd. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at upstageproductions.net or by calling 954-264-1461.
For more information about Upstage Productions, or Deathtrap, to speak with Janice Hamilton, or to arrange to see a performance, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.
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Deathtrap By Ira Levin October 10 – November 2 Directed by Deborah Kondelik Tickets: $40 For tickets: upstageproductions.net Phone: 954-264-1461 Performances: Friday & Saturday at 8 pm Sunday at 5 pm All performances will take place at Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Carol Kassie 