Thinking Cap Theatre’s Neo-Restoration Comedy OR, at the Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts – February 19 – March 5

03 Wednesday Feb 2016

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Alex Alvarez, Aphra Behn, Betsy Graver, Ft. Lauderdale Theatre, King Charles II, Liz Duffy Adams, Nell Gwynne, Nicole Stodard, Niki Fridh, OR, The Vanguard, The Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts, Thinking Cap Theatre

Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard
presents
February 19 – March 5

“Love ceases to be a pleasure when it ceases to be a secret.” Aphra Behn

February 3, 2016
LAUDERDALE, FL: Thinking Cap Theatre will open its 2016 season with OR, Liz Duffy Adams’ wild and witty neo-restoration comedy set in the intriguing and intrigue-filled days of Charles II. The play will run at The Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts in Ft. Lauderdale from February 19^th through March 5^th.

As the play’s title, OR, suggests, much remains uncertain about Aphra Behn, England’s first professional female playwright. Was Aphra gay or straight? A playwright or a whore? A loyalist or a spy? Adams’ clever, bawdy, and riotous send-up of restoration comedy will give audiences plenty to ponder – and to laugh at – in this exploration of Behn, the decadent King Charles II, and their mutual lover, the stage beauty Nell Gwynne.

Thinking Cap Theatre at the Vanguard has quickly established itself as a respected presence in the South Florida theatrical community. The company earned three Carbonell Award nominations during their 2015 season: Ann Marie Olson (Best Actress in a Play, Always Patsy Cline), Barbara Sloan (Best Actress in a Play, Vita & Virginia), and Niki Fridh (Best Suporting Actress in a Play, Vita & Virginia).

Niki Fridh will star as Aphra Behn in OR, alongside Betsy Graver as Nell Gwynn, and Alex Alvarez as King Charles II.

Niki Fridh

“I’m thrilled to be joining TCT for my fifth production,” says Fridh. “Nicole is a friend and a true inspiration in my life, and when she told me that she wanted to do OR, and have me play Aphra Behn, of course I jumped at the opportunity to work with her again. She is a real visionary and the South Florida Theatre community it so very lucky to have her as an integral part of it. Nicole is the ONLY producer/director down here to take on such varying works and I love her sense of fearlessness and passion for theatre.”

Nicole Stodard

“Most audiences will be unfamiliar with Behn’s name,” Stodard explains. “But it’s one that any lover of mystery, art, and liberty should know. She was a royal spy, a bisexual, the author of more than 18 plays and countless volumes of poetry, and an innovator of the modern day novel. For centuries, Aphra, like so many other (women) artists had been edited out of history books,” she continues. “But she has thankfully been restored to her exciting place in history, thanks to artists such as Virginia Woolf and Liz Duffy Adams, and general increased interest in the 17^th century because of films like The Libertine and Stage Beauty. The era of Charles II’s court (1660-1685) was one of the sexiest and wittiest of all London ages, making it a blast to travel back in time to play with him, Aphra, and the great Nell Gwynne!”

Tickets for OR, are $35 ($20 for students with ID) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling 813-220-1546 or on line at www.thinkingcaptheatre.com .

The Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts is located at 1501 S. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33301. There is free street parking surrounding the building and a metered municipal lot just south of The Vanguard on Andrews Ave.

For more information about Thinking Cap Theatre at the Vanguard visit www.thinkingcaptheatre.com. or contact Nicole Stodard at nicole@thinkingcaptheatre.com / 813-220-1546 or Carol Kassie at ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244.

Or,
By Liz Duffy Adams
February 19 – March 5
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
Students 25 and under with valid ID $20
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2492363
www.vanguardarts.org
February 19 8pm
February 20 8pm
February 21 3 pm & 7 pm
February 25 8pm
February 26 8pm
February 27 8pm
February 28 5pm
March 2 8pm
March 3 8pm
March 4 8pm
March 5 8pm

All performances will take place at
The Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.thinkingcaptheatre.com
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Critical Praise for OR,

“…Tom Stoppard is the most celebrated contemporary playwright to compose history-based fictions that occasionally take liberties with the facts. Many have tried to emulate the formula in his heady wake; most have sunk under the challenge… Ms. Adams fares remarkably well. Her language has a natural period flavor and a formidable wit; her characters possess the spark of fully animated spirits; and she weaves into her story both biographical detail and cultural context with grace.” –Charles Isherwood, New York Times.

“Adams’s historical play celebrates not only Behn’s pioneering career, which Virginia Woolf famously memorialized in A Room of One’s Own (‘All women together ought to let flowers fall upon the tomb of Aphra Behn’), but also the side of the writer’s tumultuous life that Woolf dismissed as ‘shady and amorous.’ [Adams] has written an Aphra-disiac valentine, not a stodgy bio-play.”—Rob Weinert-Kendt, TimeOut New York

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Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard presents Oscar Wilde’s THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST November 20 – December 13

27 Tuesday Oct 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Clay Cartland, Karen Stephens, Nicole Stodard, Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Vanguard, The Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts, Thinking Cap Theatre

Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard
presents
Oscar Wilde’sNovember 20 – December 13

“The truth is rarely pure and never simple.”
Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest

October 28, 2015
LAUDERDALE, FL: Dust off your disco shoes and get ready to have fun with puns. Thinking Cap Theatre will put its own unique spin on one of the theatre’s most beloved classics when it presents Oscar Wilde’s bristling comedy The Importance of Being Earnest at the Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts from November 20^th through December 13^th.

Director Nicole Stodard has set the play in December 1978 – in disco-era New York City. The show promises to be punny, prurient, and pointed, informed by both 1970’s pop culture and social issues.

“In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.”
Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest

First performed on February 14^th, 1895 at the St James’s Theatre in London – the height of the Victorian era – the farcical comedy, in which the protagonists maintain fictitious personae to escape burdensome social obligations, has proven to be one of Wilde’s most popular and enduring pieces. The Importance of Being Earnest was celebrated for the lighthearted ingenuity of its plot and its scintillating dialogue. Yet the play also contains a critique of relationship conventions, social mores, and gender roles that still resonate today.

Stodard has assembled an award-winning cast to bring Wilde’s characters to life:
Carbonell Award-winners Karen Stephens and Clay Cartland will be joined by Elizabeth Price, Carey Hart, Noah Levine, Jim Gibbons, Johnnie, Bowls, and Emma Magner.

Nicole Stodard

“For me, Earnest was love at first read,” says Stodard. “Wilde’s wit is, in my opinion, unrivaled. And yet, depending on the staging, the play can sometimes feel dated, so I always knew that I wanted to stage the play closer to our own moment. The class, gender, racial, and sexual politics of the late 1970’s make for a rich and poignant backdrop for revisiting and re-imagining Wilde’s comedy. The 1970’s were an incredibly hedonistic and liberated decade, a drag culture was emerging in downtown NYC, and discos, most notably Studio 54, were the sites of divine apparel, playfulness, and pleasure. However, feminism experienced a splintering, gay marriage was still decades from society’s grasps, AIDS was on its way to becoming an epidemic, and anti-gay and racial violence still occurred routinely—not the least of which was the November 1978 murder of openly gay politician, Harvey Milk.”

Karen Stephens

“I’m so thrilled to play a role I wouldn’t normally get to play,” says actress Karen Stephens, who will play Lady Bracknell in the production “And the opportunity to bring this character – who is normally played by a male – to life in the retro world that will be created by director, Nicole Stodard is so exciting.”

“I am so excited to FINALLY work with Nicole Stodard and Thinking Cap Theatre, not to mention this stellar cast!” says Clay Cartland, who won the 2014 Carbonell Best Actor, Musical, Award for his work in The Trouble With Doug.

Clay Cartland

“Take everything you thought you knew about Oscar Wilde and this show in general,” he continues. “Then imagine Oscar Wilde and Donna Summer conceived a child while watching Saturday Night Fever…and then buy your tickets!

“The good ended happily, and the bad unhappily. That is what Fiction means.”
Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest

Tickets for The Importance of Being Earnest are $35 ($20 for students with ID) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling 813-220-1546 or on line at www.thinkingcaptheatre.com.

The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People
By Oscar Wilde
November 20 – December 13, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
On Line: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2304016
www.thinkingcaptheatre.com
Performance Schedule:
Friday, November 20, 2015, 8pm (Opening Night)
Saturday, November 21st, 8pm
Sunday, November 22nd, 5pm
Friday, November 27th, 8pm
Saturday, November 28th, 8pm
Sunday, November 29th, 5pm
Thursday, December 3rd, 8pm
Friday, December 4th, 8pm
Saturday, December 5th, 8pm
Sunday, December 6th, 5pm
Thursday, December 10, 8pm
Friday, December 11, 8pm
Saturday, December 12, 8pm
Sunday, December 13, 5pm
Please note – there will be no performance on Thursday, November 26 – Thanksgiving Day

The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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“How you can sit there, calmly eating muffins when we are in this horrible trouble, I can’t make out. You seem to me to be perfectly heartless.”
“Well, I can’t eat muffins in an agitated manner. The butter would probably get on my cuffs. One should always eat muffins quite calmly.
It is the only way to eat them.”
“I say it’s perfectly heartless your eating muffins at all, under the circumstances.”
Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest

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The South Florida Theatre League’s THE DANA PLAYS 2015 to Feature Short Plays by Nine South Florida Playwrights – August 31st at The Vanguard

11 Tuesday Aug 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, The South Florida Theatre League

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Andie Arthur, Avi Hoffman, Christopher Demos-Brown, David Nail, Humane Society, Jessica Farr, Matt Stabile, Michael McKeever, Paul Tei, The Dana Plays, The Vanguard, Tony Finstrom

The South Florida Theatre League
presents
The Dana Plays 2015
A play reading fundraiser for the Humane Society
Inspired by Dana Castellano

Miami, Florida, August 11, 2015

On Monday, August 31st, the South Florida Theatre League will proudly present The Dana Plays 2015 – a play reading fundraiser inspired by Dana Castellano – at The Vanguard (1501 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316) at 8 pm.

Dana Castellano

The Dana Plays evolved as an adjunct to the South Florida Theatre League’s Summer Theatre Fest Play Reading Festival. Dana Castellano was a passionate supporter of, and involved with, South Florida theatre for over 10 years in both Broward and Palm Beach Counties. She was an active member of the board of directors for the Women’s Theater Project and dedicated her time and energy to a number of theatrical projects. Her love of the theater allowed her to make amazing lifelong friends and share her commitment to the arts community. Dana Castellano passed away in November of 2014.

The playwrights contributing to The Dana Plays 2015 are Andie Arthur, Christopher Demos-Brown, Jessica Farr, Tony Finstrom, Avi Hoffman, Michael McKeever, David Nail, Matt Stabile, and Paul Tei.

The Dana Plays 2015 will raise funds for the Humane Society, a charity Castellano supported because of her love of animals.

Tickets for The Dana Plays are $15 each (with any extra donation welcome), and are now available at SouthFloridaTheatre.org or https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/949407

For more information about The Dana Plays 2015, or the South Florida Theatre League, please contact Andie Arthur at andie@southfloridatheatre.com / 954-557-0778 or Carol Kassie at ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244.

The South Florida Theatre League is an alliance of theatrical organizations and professionals dedicated to nurturing, promoting, and advocating for the growth and prestige of the South Florida theatre industry. The South Florida Theatre League is funded by its members, member theatres, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, and the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. For more information visit: www.southfloridatheatre.com.

The Vanguard: Sanctuary For The Arts is an intimate, versatile black box performance space located in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Formerly a church when first erected in 1939, the freshly remodeled venue will be a modern sanctuary for the arts. The Vanguard will serve as the permanent residence for Thinking Cap Theatre, a local award-winning theatre company, and as a creative hub to showcase a range of artistic offerings, including the work of other local and visiting theatre companies, stand-up comedy, dance, film screenings, art installations, and live music. Founding Executive Director, Nicole Stodard, and her creative team have given the decor of the venue a mid-century flair with a mod color palette, Sputnik chandeliers and pop art reminiscent of Warhol adorning the lobby lounge. However, they have preserved the original 30-feet Dade County pine ceiling in the central room that is now the performance area. The Vanguard is also available for rental for corporate and private events. For more information, call 813-220-1546. www.vanguardarts.org

~*~

The Dana Plays 2015
Monday, August 31st – 8 pm
Tickets: $15
at The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
To purchase tickets, visit SouthFloridaTheatre.org or
https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/949407

Thinking Cap Theatre at the Vanguard presents WAITING FOR WAITING FOR GODOT – August 28 – September 13

10 Monday Aug 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Dave Hanson, Ft. Lauderdale Theatre, The Vanguard, Thinking Cap Theatre, Waiting for Godot, Waiting for Waiting for Godot

Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard
presents the
Southeastern Premiere of
Waiting for Waiting for Godot
by Dave Hanson August 28 – September 13 (Preview performance – August 27)

“…Waiting for Waiting for Godot is a perfectly executed trip into metatheatrical purgatory…” TimeOut New York

August 11, 2015 FT. LAUDERDALE, FL: What better way to wrap up the summer season than with a cool comedy that masterfully and humorously takes on a theatrical classic. Thinking Cap Theatre will present Dave Hanson’s critically acclaimed Waiting for Waiting for Godot. August 28^th through September 13th. (There will be a preview performance on August 27^th) Hanson’s comedy about two understudies who are waiting to ‘go on’ in a production of Samuel Beckett’s classic Waiting for Godot – itself a play about two men who wait for a man they’ve never met, who never arrives – is not in any way an adaptation or interpretation of Beckett’s work, but rather a brand new play that examines life, theatre, acting, and art in a unique, clever, and extremely funny way. A winner of the Overall Excellence Award for Overall Play at the 2013 New York Fringe Festival, Waiting for Waiting for Godot was described as ‘gleefully absurd’ by TimeOut New York, ‘delectable’ by the New York Times, and ‘damn near perfect’ by Theatre is Easy.

Award-winning theatre artist and educator Margaret Ledford is directing the production, which will star Scott Douglas Wilson, Mark Duncan, and Vanessa Elise.

Dave Hanson

Dave Hanson is an actor and writer living in New York City. Originally from Seattle, he studied Theatre and English Literature at Whittier College and spent several years in Los Angeles, where he worked as an actor and writer, performed improv and sketch comedy, and served as a writer and producer for the Chelsea Lately Show on the E! Network. He has also toured the country as a standup comedian. Hanson’s other works include two one act plays, The Exit Interview & Cafe d’Automatique, which were produced and published for the 2013 & 2014 C10 Play Festival. He is a permanent ensemble member of the Collective New York Theatre Group, and writes and performs regularly with the New York sketch group The Shorts Show.

The Vanguard, which serves as the permanent residence of Thinking Cap Theatre, is an intimate, versatile, 99-seat black box performance space located in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Formerly a church when first erected in 1939, the freshly remodeled venue is fast becoming a well known sanctuary for the arts. Their recent productions of Always… Patsy Cline, Vita & Virginia, and most recently, David and Amy Sedaris’ The Book of Liz have been extremely well received by critics and audiences alike.

Tickets for Waiting for Waiting for Godot are $35 ($20 for students with ID) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling 813-220-1546 or on line at http://thinkingcaptheatre.com. The Vanguard is located at 1501 S. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33301. There is free street parking surrounding the building and a metered municipal lot just south of The Vanguard on Andrews Ave. For more information about Thinking Cap Theatre visit http://thinkingcaptheatre.com. For information about The Vanguard visit http://www.vanguardarts.org

Waiting for Waiting for Godot
By Dave Hanson
August 27 – September 13, 2015
Performance dates & times:
Thursday 8/27 8pm (Preview)
Friday 8/28 8pm (Opening Night)
Saturday 8/29 8pm
Sunday 8/30 5pm
Thursday 9/3 8pm
Friday 9/4 8pm
Saturday 9/5 8pm
Sunday 9/6 5pm
Wednesday 9/9 8pm
Thursday 9/10 8pm
Friday 9/11 8pm
Saturday 9/12 8pm
Sunday 9/13 5pm
Tickets: $35 /$20 for students with ID
To purchase tickets: 813-220-1546 or http://thinkingcaptheatre.com
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301
vanguardarts.org

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2015 -2016 Theatre & Concert Schedules

02 Sunday Aug 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Arts Garage, Clients, Community Performing Arts, Entr'Acte Theatrix, Evening Star Productions, Pigs Do Fly Productions, Sol Children Theatre, The Broward Stage Door Theatre, The Delray Beach Chorale, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah, Theatre Thoughts, Thinking Cap Theatre

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35 MM, A Map of Virtue, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Arts Radio Network, Black Box Booking, Bridge & Tunnel, Broward Stage Door Theatre, Carnival, Community Performing Arts, David Mamet, Entr'Acte Theatrix, Ethan Bortnick, Evening Star Productions, Evita, Gypsy, Jerusalem Tenors, Karen Stephens, Kevin Black, Kol Esperanza, Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein, Michael Leeds, Murdered to Death, Noel Coward, Oleanna, Once Upon a Mattress, Oscar Wilde, Pigs Do Fly Productions, Promises Promises, Radio at Arts Garage, Ryan Scott Oliver, Same Time Next Year, Shari Upbin, Sol Children Theatre, South Florida Theatre, Spanish River Concerts, Stage Door Theatre, Stephen Sondheim, The Delray Beach Chorale, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Jazz Singer, The Vanguard, Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vangaurd, Umi Garrett, Unlikely Heroes, Waiting for Waiting for Godot, William Shakespeare, Women's Minyan

2015-2016 Theatre & Concert Schedules
for
Pigs Do Fly Productions
Entr’Acte Theatrix
Sol Children Theatre
Evening Star Productions
Stage Door Theatre
Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard
Shari Upbin Directs
Baby Boom Baby
Arts Radio Network Theatre Project series at Arts Garage
4 Ever ’50s
Unlikely Heroes
The Jazz Singer
The Jackie Mason Musical
The Delray Beach Chorale
The Spanish River Concert Series (Community Performing Arts)

Below is a list of productions – plays, musicals, concerts, readings, radio plays, etc. – that will be presented on various South Florida stages during the 2015-2016 season … and beyond.
I will try to keep this list up to date and make sure any additions, subtractions, and changes in dates or venues are noted as they arise.
As you will see as you scroll down this page, theatre in South Florida is thriving, and audiences will be able to choose from an exciting and eclectic selection of productions, concerts, and presentations in the coming months.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions…
I look forward to seeing you at the Theatre!
Carol

Pigs Do Fly Productions:

Flying High!
By Various Playwrights
October 8 – October 25, 2015
There will be a second production of new plays in March 2016
Tickets: $30
Tickets: 866-811-4111 / http://pigsdoflyproductions.com
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday: 8 pm
Sunday: 2 pm
All performances will take place at Empire Stage.
1140 North Flagler Drive.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
http://pigsdoflyproductions.com
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Seven brand new short plays chosen to highlight ‘vibrant, healthy people over the age of 50 doing interesting things with their lives’; the plays are selected with all audiences in mind. Playwrights include E.M. Garcia, Andrea Rassler, Marv Siegel, and Carol White.

Entr’Acte Theatrix:

Young Frankenstein
Book by Mel Brooks
Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks
Book by Thomas Meehan
October 22 – November 1
Performance Schedule:
Thursday, October 22 – 8 pm (Preview)
Friday, October 23 – 8 pm
Saturday, October 24 – 2 pm
Saturday, October 24 – 8 pm
Sunday, October 25 – 2 pm (BOGO)
Sunday, October 25 – 8 pm
Wednesday, October 28 – 8 pm
Thursday, October 29 – 8 pm
Friday, October 30 – 8 pm
Saturday, October 31 – 2 pm
Saturday, October 31 – 8 pm
Sunday, November 1 – 2 pm
Delray Beach Center for the Arts / Crest Theatre
51 N. Swinton Ave.
Delray Beach 33444
Box Office: 561-243-7922, Ext. 1
http://www.delraycenterforthearts.org
http://www.entractetheatrix.org
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A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend, Mel Brooks’ comedy masterpiece follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that’s Fronkensteen!) as he attempts to complete his grandfather’s masterwork and bring a corpse to life. Together with his oddly shaped and endearing helper Igor (that’s Eye-gor), his curvaceous lab assistant Inga, and in spite of his incredibly self-involved madcap fiancé Elizabeth, Frankenstein succeeds in creating a monster — but not without scary and quite often hilarious complications.

Evening Star Productions:

35mm: A Musical Exhibition
October 8 – 25
Music and Lyrics by Ryan Scott Oliver
Based on photographs by Matthew Murphy
Vocal arrangements and orchestrations by Ryan Scott Oliver
Additional percussion arrangements by Jeremy Yaddaw
Additional guitar arrangements by Matt Hinkley
Directed by Rosalie Grant
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 /http://www.eveningstarproductions.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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If a picture is worth a 1,000 words – what about a song? Can a picture inspire a song – or fifteen? In 35mm, each photo creates an unique song, moments frozen in time; a glimmer of a life unfolding; a glimpse of something happening. A stunning new multimedia musical which explores a groundbreaking new concept in musical theatre… This intricately woven collection of stories told through song re-imagines what the modern American musical can be.

Murdered to Death
April 14 – May 1, 2016
By Peter Gordon
Directed by Rosalie Grant
Tickets: $20 / $10 students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.eveningstarproductions.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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From the author of Out of Focus comes this hilarious spoof of the best Agatha Christie traditions, with an assembled cast of characters guaranteed to delight: Bunting the butler, an English Colonel with the prerequisite stiff upper lip, a shady French art dealer and his moll, bumbling local inspectors and a well meaning local sleuth who seems to attract murder – they’re all here, and all caught up in the side-splitting antics which follow the mysterious death of the owner of a country manor house. But will the murderer be unmasked before everyone else has met their doom, or will audiences die laughing first?

Sol Children Theatre:

Once Upon a Mattress
December 3 – 20, 2015
Music by Mary Rodgers
Book by Jay Thrompson, Dean Fuller & Marshall Barer
Lyrics by Marshall Barer
Directed by Rosalie Grant and Gisbert Heuer
Tickets: $15 / $10 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.solchildren.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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If you thought you knew the story of ‘The Princess and The Pea,’ you may be in for a walloping surprise! Did you know, for instance, that Princess Winnifred actually swam the moat to reach Prince Dauntless the Drab? Or that Lady Larken’s love for Sir Harry provided a rather compelling reason that she reach the bridal altar post haste? Or that, in fact, it wasn’t the pea at all that caused the princess a sleepless night? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the familiar classic of royal courtship and comeuppance provides for some side-splitting shenanigans. Chances are you’ll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again.

Around the World in 80 Days
June 17 – July 3, 2016
Book and Lyrics by Chris Blackwood
Music by Piers Chater Robinson
Based on the book by Jules Verne
Directed by Rosalie & Gisbert Heuer
Tickets: $15 / $10 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.solchildren.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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Based on Jules Verne’s classic novel, the musical recounts the journey of Phileas Fogg who has made a bet with the members of his gentlemen’s club that he can travel around the world in 80 days. Accompanied by his servant Passepartout the plot revolves around the adventures Fogg faces in his attempt.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream
August 5 – 21, 2016
By William Shakespeare
Adapted and directed by Seth Trucks
Tickets: $12 / $8 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.solchildren.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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One of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, A Midsummer Night’s Dream depicts the events surrounding the marriage of Theseus, the Duke of Athens, and his bride Hippolyta, including the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of six amateur actors, who are controlled and manipulated by the fairies who inhabit the forest in which most of the play is

Stage Door Theatre:

Group and Subscriber Discounts available for these productions

The Fantasticks
September 4 – October 11, 2015
Music by Harvey Schmidt
Lyrics by Tom Jones
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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The world’s longest running musical is a funny and romantic musical about a boy, a girl, two fathers, a wall… and a world of moonlight and magic. The timeless score includes the classic “Try to Remember”, as well as “Soon It’s Gonna Rain”, “They Were You”, and “Plant a Radish”.

Promises, Promises
September 25 – November 1, 2015
Music by Burt Bacharach
Lyrics by Hal David
Tickets: $38-$42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes: Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
Stage Door Theatre
8036 Sample Road
Margate, FL 33065
www.stagedoor Theatre.com
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Infused with the swinging energy of 1968 Manhattan, Promises, Promises is the musical tale of a lovelorn young executive and a romantically troubled waitress. Featuring a number of hit songs, including “A House is Not a Home”, “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again”, and “I Say a Little Prayer for You”.

Dial ‘M’ for Murder
October 30 – December 6, 2015
By Frederick Knotts
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Deception, murder, and passion complicate this darkly brilliant tale of jealousy and greed. Motivated by his wife Magot’s large fortune and a previous infidelity, Tony Wendice decides it’s time to murder her. With twists and turns galore, Dial M for Murder remains one of the most clever and shocking plays of any genre.

Gypsy
November 20, 2015 – January 3, 2016
Music by Jule Styne
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by Arthur Laurents
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Loosely based on the memoirs of stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, Gypsy focuses on Momma Rose, who has been called the ‘ultimate show business mother. It chronicles Rose’s dreams and efforts to raise her two daughters, Louise and June to perform on stage, and casts an affectionate eye on the hardships of a life in show business. Musical numbers include “Let Me Entertain You”, “Some People”, “If Momma was Married”, “Together”, and “Everything’s Coming Up Roses”.

Pompadour
December 26, 2015 – January 31, 2016
Conceived by Michael Leeds
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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What do the Everly Brothers, Bobby Darrin, Ben E. King, Frank, and Elvis have in common? Great music… and great hair! Pompadour is the new musical review that features five incredible guys singing and dancing through five decades of unforgettable songs. It’s the music you remember, made famous by the singers and groups you’ll never forget. So put your comb in your pocket, your brush in your bag, and get ready to raise the roof!

Carnival
January 22 – February 28, 2016
Music & Lyrics by Bob Merrill
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Based on the popular 1953 musical Lili, Carnival is filled with colorful characters, delightful puppets, wonderful dance sequences, memorable music, and theatrical magic. The musical relates the story of a naive young orphan girl who joins a traveling French circus, where she meets a manipulative magician and a disillusioned puppeteer, who can only show his emotions via his whimsical puppet creations.

What’s New Pussycat
February 19 – March 27, 2016
Conceived by Kevin Black and Michael Leeds
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Back by popular demand! These Boots are Made for Walkin’ so let’s go Downtown, taking The Long and Winding Road to a Bridge over Troubled Waters. Then I’ve Got Georgia On My Mind, so I’ll be Leavin’ On a Jet Plane with My Girl, My Guy, and Eleanor Rigby. But if you’re California Dreamin’, I’m feeling those Good Vibrations, so just Walk Like a Man and let’s Hit the Road, Jack. You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me ’cause Our Day Will Come and we’re gonna be Happy Together. How do I know…? ‘Cause I Heard it on the Grapevine!

Evita
March 18 – April 24, 2016
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Based upon the life of Argentine political leader Eva Peron, who became the spiritual leader of the nation, Evita traces this charismatic woman’s rise from obscurity to fame and fortune as one of the most influential political figures in the country’s history.

Same Time, Next Year
April 15 – May 22, 2016
By Bernard Slade
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Same Time, Next Year chronicles the love affair between Doris and George, both married to other people, who rendezvous just once a year. Twenty-five years of manners and morals are hilariously and touchingly played out in this classic and popular romantic comedy.

Stephen Sondheim’s Putting it Together
May 13 – June 19, 2016
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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At an all-night, black-tie party in a penthouse, the hosts, an older couple, face their disillusions and marital troubles; a younger, less jaundiced couple struggle with their feelings and desires, and a commentator oversees and influences the action. The spouses deal with infidelity and divorce, but finally reconcile before dawn. This musical compendium features almost 30 Sondheim tunes, including songs from Into the Woods, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, A Little Night Music, Company, and Sweeny Todd.

The Soul of Motor City
June 10 – July 17, 2016
Conceived by Kevin Black
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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In the early 1960s Detroit was on the move. The distinctive sound that emerged from the city was the sound of young America. That music has left an indelible stamp on the heart, soul, and mind of several generations. The Soul of Motor City brings new life to those classics made famous by such artists as The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, The Temptations, The Supremes, and many more.

Present Laughter
July 8 – August 14, 2016
By Noel Coward
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Present Laughter was described by playwright Noel Coward as “a series of semi-autobiographical pyrotechnics.” The play covers several days in the life of the successful and self-obsessed Garry Essendine as he prepares to travel for a touring commitment in Africa. Amid a series of events bordering on farce, Garry has to deal with women who want to seduce him, placate his long-suffering secretary and his estranged wife, cope with a crazed young playwright, and overcome his impending mid-life crisis (since he recently turned forty.)

TJ’z Productions
presents
The 4 Guyz in
4 Ever ‘50s
December 4 – 13
Performance dates & times:
Dec 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8pm
Dec 5, 6, 12, 13 at 2pm
Tickets:
$30 per person; $21 opening night December 4)
$24 group rate (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction)(Group rates may only be purchased in person or by calling the Box Office)
To purchase tickets: 561-347-3948 or www.willowtheatre.org
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 South Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL 33486
www.willowtheatre.org
www.4ever50s.com

A treat for history buffs and music lovers alike, 4 Ever 50’s asks how many of the jingles of that special era rattled off during the evening will audiences remember and sing along to? Can they name all the top television shows from the 1950’s and early 1960’s? And of course, can they sing along to such timeless classics as “Teenager in Love,” “Blue Moon,” “At the Hop,” “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” and many, many more.
“The show’s song list is irresistible ear candy for folks who grew up on sock hops and 45 rpm records.” “… the show embraces the audience with a sincere charm.” – Damien Jacques of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The Jackie Mason Musical
Both Sides of a Famous Love Affair with a Hilarious Twist

The Jackie Mason Musical By Ginger Reiter
January 7 – 24, 2016
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
For tickets: 866-811-4111
Click HERE to purchase tickets on line.
All performances will take place at

Empire Stage

1140 N. Flagler Drive
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304

Based on a true story, The Jackie Mason Musical begins at The Rascal House – a deli in Miami Beach – in 1977, where Jackie, a renowned 46 year old comedian, spots a pretty young college girl, Ginger (played by Jackie’s own daughter, comedian Sheba Mason). Along for the ride is er overbearing mother, Mr.s Olivier, who engineers the entire affair – down to a black negligee – with unforgettable panache, and a hilarious cast of six.

Black Box Booking & Hy Juter present:

The Jazz Singer
Based on the play by Samson Raphaelson
January 8 – January 24, 2016
Tickets: $35
Group rates (6 or more) available
Phone: 561-347-3948
Showtimes:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 8:00 pm,
Saturday & Sunday at 2:00 pm
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 S. Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Black Box Booking – Jazz Singer Information
www.willowtheatre.org

The Jazz Singer explores the internal coming of age struggle of a talented son’s passion for music interfering with his cantor father’s plans for him to follow in his footsteps. The musical features songs by various artists and composers including Irving Berlin and George Gershwin. Numbers include “You Made Me Love You”, “Baby Face”, “Mammy”, “I’m Sittin’ on Top of the World”, “I’m Just Wild About Harry”, and “April Showers”.

Family Pool Productions:

Unlikely Heroes
By Charles Gluck
Directed by Avi Hoffman
January 28 – February 21, 2016
(Previews, January 28 at 8 pm, January 29 at 8 pm & January 30 at 2 pm)
Tickets: $35 (plus $4.50 S/C)
Phone: 800-595-4849 / Purchase tickets on line
Excellent Group Rates Available-Call: 828-828-536-0963
Performances:
Wednesday – Saturday at 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday at 2 pm
Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center/Studio Theatre 2^nd Floor
201 Plaza Real
Boca Raton, FL 33432
http://unlikelyheroesplay.com

“Laughter, love, dark secrets, anger, sadness, joy, and hope are woven into the fiber of this riveting new play about ordinary people under extraordinary circumstances. A close family fragments when faced with a crisis and then comes together with unlikely heroes emerging. Sometimes strength can be a weakness and weakness a strength”. The cast includes Avi Hoffman, Patti Gardner, Kim Ostrenko, Margot Moreland, Michael H. Small, and Robert Johnston.

The Vanguard:
Multi-production Flex Passes available

Waiting for Waiting for Godot
By Dave Hanson
August 28 – September 13, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
www.vanguardarts.org
Performances:
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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Dave Hanson’s comedy about two understudies who are waiting to ‘go on’ in a production of Samuel Beckett’s classic Waiting for Godot – itself a play about two men who wait for a man they’ve never met, who never arrives – is not in any way an adaptation or interpretation of Beckett’s work, but rather a brand new play that examines theatre, acting, and art in a unique, clever, and extremely funny way.

A Map of Virtue
By Erin Courtney
October 2 – 18, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
www.vanguardarts.org
Performances:
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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A Map of Virtue is a symmetrical play guided by a bird statue, pivoting around an encounter with and dissection of evil. Part interview, part comedy, part middle-night-middle-forest horror story, the play was awarded an Obie in 2012, and described as “one of the most terrifying plays of the past decade” by Alexis Soloski in The New York Times.

The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People
By Oscar Wilde
November 20 – December 13, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
Click HERE to purchase tickets on line
Performance Schedule:
Friday, November 20, 2015, 8pm (Opening Night)
Saturday, November 21st, 8pm
Sunday, November 22nd, 5pm
Friday, November 27th, 8pm
Saturday, November 28th, 8pm
Sunday, November 29th, 5pm
Thursday, December 3rd, 8pm
Friday, December 4th, 8pm
Saturday, December 5th, 8pm
Sunday, December 6th, 5pm
Thursday, December 10, 8pm
Friday, December 11, 8pm
Saturday, December 12, 8pm
Sunday, December 13, 5pm
Please note – there will be no performance on Thursday, November 26 – Thanksgiving Day
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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Dust off your disco shoes and get ready to have fun with puns. Thinking Cap Theatre will put its own unique spin on one of the theatre’s most beloved classics when it presents Oscar Wilde’s bristling comedy The Importance of Being Earnest at the Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts. Director Nicole Stodard has set the play in December 1978 – in disco-era New York City. The show promises to be punny, prurient, and pointed, informed by both 1970’s pop culture and social issues.

B’nai Torah Theatre Series:
Produced and Directed By Shari Upbin

Women’s Minyan
by Naomi Ragen
February 3rd, 2016
7:30 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org
In her powerful and often emotional award-winning play Women’s Minyan (based on a true story), novelist and playwright Naomi Ragen explores the strict rules that govern the lives of Orthodox Jewish women, and in particular, how religious leaders can twist biblical and other holy writings to suit their objectives. But more importantly, Ragen – who once described herself as “a very religious woman who relates to religion with great seriousness” – sheds light on the subject of domestic abuse, especially when it occurs in a close-knit, patriarchal community that prefers to keep its hidden secrets.

Bridge & Tunnel
by Sarah Jones
March 16, 2016
7:30 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org
Carbonell Award-winning actress Karen Stephens will reprise her award-winning performance in Sarah Jones’ Tony Award winning play Bridge & Tunnel. On March 16th, 2016, Stephens will once again inhabit the souls of 14 unique and diverse members of New York City’s melting pot.

Baby Boom Baby

Baby Boom Baby
Written & Performed byTommy Koenig
April 28 – May 15
Tickets: $40
Phone: 855-728-8497
To purchase tickets on line: http://palmbeachestheatre.org
Showtimes:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 pm
Sunday at 2 pm
The Palm Beaches Theatre
250 South Ocean Blvd.,
Manalapan, FL 33462
(East Ocean Ave. & A1A –
Formerly Florida Stage/Plaza Theatre)
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Comedy Central/National Lampoon star Tommy Koenig’s Baby Boom Baby has been called wildly entertaining, touching, and very, very funny! It has also been called well-written, high energy and invigorating. Koenig will bring his one man “‘musicomedy’- a flashback through our times and the music that defined them” to the Palm Beaches theatre from April 28^th through May 15^th.

Baby Boom Baby is Koenig’s story, told from his distinctly Baby Boomer perspective. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1953, the year Rock and Roll was born. The son of a musician who played with Glenn Miller during WW2, Koenig was greatly influenced by chance meetings with John F. Kennedy and later George Carlin, and mostly by what the Beatles brought – the influence of music on Boomers’ culture and personal choices. In Baby Boom Baby Koenig recounts the years he struggled to keep up with the changing times, just missing Woodstock by a few miles; the rites of passage of College, Travel, Sex and Drugs; and the ever changing cultural and political landscape that music unleashed as it morphed from Disco to Punk to MTV to Rap and beyond.

Arts Radio Network Theatre Project series at Arts Garage:From The Mercury Theatre to A Prairie Home Companion, the radio play is a uniquely American art form, and one of this country’s most beloved. During the 1930s through 50s, live performances of plays broadcast over the radio were a part of everyday life. The Arts Radio Network Theatre Project is a unique combination of the nostalgia of classic radio drama, and the excitement of a live theatrical performance. Come see the golden age of radio brought gloriously back to life on stage at Arts Garage, featuring some of South Florida’s finest actors! It’s a trip to the past with a modern twist.

The African Queen
August 19 and 20, 2015
At the start of World War 1, Charlie Allnut is using his old steamer, The African Queen, to ferry supplies to villages in East Africa. When the Rev. Samuel Sayer dies, Charlie agrees to take Sayers’ sister, Rose, back to civilization, taking on the Germans at the same time. Their time alone on the river turns to love.

Double Indemnity
September 16 and 17, 2015
Based on the 1944 classic film noir masterpiece directed by Billy Wilder, this cynical, witty, and sleazy thriller involves scandals including adultery, corruption and murder. Needless to say, all does not go according to plan…

Miracle on 34^th Street
December 16 and 17, 2015
Six-year-old Susan has doubts about childhood’s most enduring miracle – Santa Claus. Her mother told her the “secret” about Santa a long time ago, so Susan doesn’t expect to receive the most important gifts on her Christmas list. But after meeting a special department store Santa who’s convinced he’s the real thing, Susan is given the most precious gift of all – something to believe in.

Arts Radio Network Theatre Project at Arts Garage:
For tickets: 561-450-6357/ http://www.artsgarage.org/Page/RadioTheater
Performances:
Wednesday & Thursday at 7:30 pm
General Admission: $15
Reserved Seat: $20
Premium Seat: $25
Reserved Table for 6: $108
Premium Table for 6: $135
Group rates are also available
All performances at
Arts Garage
180 NE First Street
Delray Beach, FL 33444
http://www.artsgarage.org/Page/RadioTheater
www.artsradionetwork.com
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The Delray Beach Chorale:
Now in its 34th season, under the direction of Artistic Director/Conductor Dr. Patricia P. Fleitas, the Delray Beach Chorale is proud to announce its 2015-16 season, expanding its outreach in Palm Beach County through performances in Boca Raton and North West Palm Beach. The Chorale will open its season with the debut performance of its newly founded, the DBC Chamber Ensemble. The Chorale will join the Lynn University Philharmonia and the Florida Atlantic University Chamber Singers for the April, 2016 concert, “Haydn Mozart, Beethoven and Company,” featuring Mozart’s Coroanation Mass.

Fall Concerts: Magnificats, Alleluias and Carols
The Fall 2015 concerts will feature Halsey Stevens’ Magnificat for strings and trumpet solo, a medley of carols, Christmas Ornaments, by Randol Bass for chorus and orchestra, and Bach’s Magnificat in D Major for chorus, soli, and orchestra.

Performances:
Friday, December 4, 2015 at 7:30 pm
DiSantis Family Chapel
Palm Beach Atlantic University
300 Okeechobee Blvd.
West Palm Beach, 33401

Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 3 pm
First Presbyterian Church
33 Gleason St.
Delray Beach, 33483

Spring Concerts: The Vienna of Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Company
A choral concert featuring the Viennese Style of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, in addition to Shubert, Bruckner, and Brahms. Featured work will be Mozart’s Coronation Mass.

Performances:
Friday, April 8, 2016 at 7:30 pm
Roberts Theatre, St. Andrews School
3900 Jog Road
Boca Raton 33434

Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 7:30 pm
First Presbyterian Church
33 Gleason St.
Delray Beach, 33483

Tickets are $25 in advance: $30 at the door. Students under 25 with ID- $5. Season ticket packages are available at $20 per ticket for a limited time via 1-800-984-7282. Group sales are also available by calling 1-800-984-7282. http://delraybeachchorale.org.

Spanish River Concerts (Community Performing Arts):

Community Performing Arts celebrates its thirteenth season this January through March, by yet again offering innovative virtuoso musical performances in conveniently located venues in West Boca Raton and Delray Beach. Individual tickets for these concerts will cost $49 (plus tax) when they go on sale on December 1, but series subscriptions include all four of the following concerts, and are available now for the discounted package price of $158 (plus tax).

Kol Esperanza – With Guests:
Kol Esperanza is a vibrant Israeli pop trio created by Community Performing Arts and musical director Tomer Adaddi. Accompanied by a virtuoso ensemble, classically trained Nimrod, Nadav, and Omer sing popular selections with guest soprano-duo Lev Voce.

Umi Garrett with Conductor Adam Glaser:
Hailed by the Huffington Post as “a budding musical genius”, fifteen year old pianist Umi Garrett will perform classical masterpieces, accompanied by the Boca Symphonia, conducted by Juilliard’s engaging and charismatic Adam Glaser.

Ethan Bortnick and Friends:
Nationally known pianist, singer, composer, Ethan Bortnick conceived and starred in two award-winning PBS specials that aired more than 600 times across the USA. For this special production, Ethan invites a talented trio of Broadway singers to share the stage with him in an entertaining and inspirational concert. Backed by his 14-piece instrumental ensemble, he welcomes David Burnham, Cassie Levine, and Shelley Keelor for a uniquely memorable evening of multi-genre music.

Jerusalem Tenors:
An encore of the most lauded engagement in CPA’s history – European opera stars Yevgeni Shapovalov, Felix Livshitz, Vladislav Goray, and baritone Alex Gounko create a wonderful evening featuring well-known opera and popular favorites in English, Italian, Russian, and Yiddish.

2016 Optional Concert
(Sold separately from the above series, and available now for $46 plus tax)

Broadway’s Best:
A showcase concert produced by popular/composer, producer Neil Berg, featuring the music and dance of Broadway, performed by some of the Great White Way’s best talent, backed by a four-piece instrumental ensemble.

Evening and matinee concerts will be presented at either Spanish River Church, at 2400 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, 33431, and Kings Point Theatre, 7000 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 33446.

Call 1-800-716-6975 or visit CPA’s website at www.SpanishRiverConcerts.com for specific concert dates, times, and ticket availability.”

The Vanguard presents Amy & David Sedaris’ THE BOOK OF LIZ – June 12 – 28

19 Tuesday May 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Tags

Amy Sedaris, comedy, David Sedaris, Ft. Lauderdale Theatre, The Book of Liz, The Talent Family, The Vanguard, Vanguard Theatre

The Vanguard presents The Book of Liz by The Talent Family – Amy Sedaris and David Sedaris June 12 – 28

“[a] delightfully off-key, off-color hymn to clichés we all live by, whether we know it or not.” —NY Times.

May 19, 2015 LAUDERDALE, FL: Amy and David Sedaris individually are two of America’s premier comic geniuses. Together, as The Talent Family, they are responsible for such witty, clever, and often downright hilarious productions as Stitches, One Woman Shoe, Stump the Host, Incident at Cobbler’s Knob and The Book of Liz. Fresh off their critically acclaimed production of Vita and Virginia, The Vanguard, Fort Lauderdale’s exciting new cultural venue, will present The Talent Family’s The Book of Liz from June 12^th through June 28^th at The Vanguard. The Book of Liz chronicles the plight of Sister Elizabeth Donderstock (of the Squeamish Order) renowned for her delicious cheese balls (traditional and smoky) that sustain the existence of her entire religious community. However, upon the arrival the sanctimonious Brother Brightbee, and feeling decidedly unappreciated, Donderstock flees from her home in Clusterhaven to try her luck in the real world. Her adventures lead her to an array of distinctly Sedaris-esque characters, from a Ukrainian immigrant dressed as a giant peanut to the alcoholic staff of a local diner, as she struggles to figure out where she belongs.

Mark Duncan

“The Book of Liz is a fun romp that asks serious questions about identity, self worth, and status,” says the production’s director, Mark Duncan. “Audiences can identify with Liz’s search for recognition, approval, and respect as they “sweat” through life.” Duncan has assembled a talented, award-winning cast to portray Liz and the various characters she encounters on her journey of self-discovery: Christina Groom will play Sister Elizabeth Donderstock, and she, along with Elena Maria Garcia, Matt Stabile, and Scott Douglas Wilson will take on multiple roles throughout the play.

Christina Groom

“I love offbeat, totally irreverent humor, and The Book of Liz has that in spades, which is why I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of this production,” Groom explains.

Elena Maria Garcia

“I saw the play at the Orlando Fringe Festival in 2000,” says Garcia. “I was very pregnant at the time, and I laughed so hard I thought my water would break! I truly enjoy morphing from character to character,” she continues, “and this is the perfect vehicle to play and create in…” “I’ve been hoping to work with Thinking Cap for quite a while now,” Matt Stabile explains. “So…I probably would’ve taken any show they offered! But the deal was sweetened when I read this wacky comedy, heard about this “probably more funny than should be allowed together in a room” cast, and found out that Mark Duncan was captaining this ship. I love that this show is just silly fun. I think there is a place for that in the theatre – and a way to help possibly connect some new audiences to the art form I love so much.”

Scott Douglas Wilson

Scott Douglas Wilson is equally enthusiastic: “A couple years back I discovered the script at a used bookstore in Ohio,” he says. “And being a big fan of the Sedaris family, I purchased it. I read it on the flight back to South Florida, laughing myself silly and thinking ‘I’ve gotta see this someday!’ Fast forward to 2015, and here I am – fortunate enough to actually BE in the show, with this amazingly hilarious and talented team! That’s what I call Gouda Luck!” The Vanguard, which officially opened its doors on March 13^th, has been enthusiastically received by local artists, theatergoers, and nearby businesses. The new venue is located at 1501 S. Andrews Avenue in what was formerly a church when the building was first erected in 1939. The Book of Liz will run from June 12 – June 28 at The Vanguard. There will be a special opening night reception at the theatre on June 12^th from 7 pm – 8 pm. Tickets for the evening are $40 and include wine and cheese(cake), automatic entry into a raffle for books by David Sedaris, and a silent auction with prizes such as a ‘Wine Night for 2’ at The Naked Grape, a private wine tasting for up to 20 people donated by Total Wine, and valued at $500, and rare Israeli wines, donated by the Madonna Family. Sponsors for the evening include The Cheesecake Factory, Bob’s News, Total Wine & More, Naked Grape, Enchantment Flowers, and the Madonna Family. Tickets for The Book of Liz are $35, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.vanguardarts.org , or by phone at 813-220-1546. Performances are on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 pm, and on Sundays at 5 pm. There will be a matinee performance on Saturday, June 13^th at 2 pm. The venue is located at 1501 S. Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, 33316. For more information, production shots, head shots, or to set up interviews, please contact Nicole Stodard at 813-220-1546 / nicole@thinkingcaptheatre.com or Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / ckassie@gmail.com or visit www.vanguardarts.org. Photographs and graphics available on request. The Book of Liz By Amy Sedaris and David Sedaris June 12 – 28 Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c) For Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1475445 www.vanguardarts.org 813-220-1546 Performances: Friday, June 12^th – Opening Night Thursdays – Saturdasy at 8 pm Sundays at 5 pm Saturday, June 13 at 2 pm

The Vanguard 1501 S. Andrews Avenue Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 www.vanguardarts.org Like us on Facebook!

[The Book Of Liz] may well be the world’s first Amish picaresque…hilarious…” —Village Voice. “…acidic laughs…linguistic delight…” —Variety. “Good-natured, goofy and frequently hilarious…” —NY Newsday. “…laugh-out-loud funny…” —Broadway.com.

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Thinking Cap theatre at The Vanguard Presents VITA & VIRGINIA by Eileen Atkins April 17th – May 3rd

01 Wednesday Apr 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Barbara Sloan, Eileen Atkins, Ft. Lauderdale Theatre, Nicole Stodard, Niki Fridh, The Vanguard, Thinking Cap Theatre, Virginia Woolf, Vita & Virginia, Vita Sackville-West

Thinking Cap theatre at The Vanguard Presents
by Eileen Atkins
April 17^th – May 3rd
“A masterful dance of two women” ~ Laurie Winer, Los Angeles Times

April 1, 2015
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: Patsy Cline and Louise Seger might be thought by some to be a hard act to follow. But Nicole Stodard, Thinking Cap Theatre’s producing artistic director has found two women whom she knows can more than fill the bill. The fascinating relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West will be examined in Eileen Atkins’ Vita & Virginia which will run at The Vanguard, Broward County’s newest performing arts space, from April 17^th through May 3^rd.

Atkins’s epistolary play deftly weaves the letters and diaries of essayist and novelist Virginia Woolf and poet and novelist Vita Sackville-West into a conversation between two passionate, intelligent, and intensely literate women. Woof was 40, and Sackville-West was 30 when they met in 1922, and their correspondence began shortly thereafter, ending only with Woolf’s suicide in 1941. Their affair was as much literary as physical; although each had husbands, and in Sackville-West’s case, numerous lovers of both genders. Woolf’s son Nigel once referred to her 1927 novel Orlando, which was inspired by her relationship with Sackville-West, as “the longest and most charming love letter in literature.”

Barbara Sloan will play Virginia Woolf in the production, and Niki Fridh will take on the role of Vita Sackville-West.

Barbara Sloan

“I’m excited to be playing Virginia Woolf,” says Sloan. “It’s always a challenge to take on historical figures because people often have preconceived ideas about who they were. This play is based on letters between these two women over a 20 year period, so you are hearing their own voices rather than the playwright’s, allowing us to get a rare and intimate glimpse into their world. And I’ve always wanted to work with Niki Fridh. She’s an interesting actress with great instincts!

“It’s also an honor to work with the courageous visionary Nicole Stodard,” she continues. “She not only produces challenging and thought provoking work, but also took a risk and opened a theatre!”

Niki Fridh

“I’ve known Barbara Sloan for a number of years and have wanted to work with her on a project for a long time,” says Fridh. “This piece will be quite the challenge for both of us….challenging I think, because there is no dialogue between Vita and Virginia – the entire play is only letter correspondence between the two women. However, I know that Nicole wants the piece to be magical, erotic, and whimsical. Vita Sackville-West was very intelligent, eccentric, adventurous woman who lived life to its fullest. I can only hope that I do justice to her free spirit and open heart.”

Nicole Stodard

“Thinking Cap Theatre is known for staging more experimental plays, so I was very excited to discover Atkins’ play about Virginia Woolf, one of my favorite experimental fiction writers,” says Stodard. “The play is witty and sensual and poignant in its depiction of same-sex desire in an age that still lacked the language to name it and the legal freedoms to allow it. I’m thrilled to be working with two of South Florida’s finest actresses to bring these iconic women of the modern era to life on stage.”

Eileen Atkins

Eileen Atkins has worked in the theatre, film, and television consistently since 1953. She has won several major acting awards, including a BAFTA, an Emmy and three Olivier’s. She was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1990 and Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2001. Although she is best known as one of the co-creators (along with Jean Marsh) of the British series Upstairs,Downstairs, she has played numerous roles in film, on stage, and television.

A post-show talkback with gender & literary experts will follow the Sunday April 19^th, 5 pm performance. Tea, scones, and other treats will be provided by various sponsors including Eat the Tea, Starbucks, and Croissan’ Time.

The Vanguard, which officially opened its doors on March 13^th, has been enthusiastically received by local artists, theatergoers, and nearby businesses. The new venue is located at 1501 S. Andrews Avenue in what was formerly a church when the building was first erected in 1939.

Vita & Virginia will run from April 17^th through May 3^rd at The Vanguard.
Tickets are $35, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.vanguardarts.org , http://thinkingcaptheatre.com or by phone at 813-220-1546. Performances are on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 pm, and on Sundays at 5 pm. The venue is located at 1501 S. Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, 33316.

For more information, production shots, head shots, or to set up interviews, please contact Nicole Stodard at 813-220-1546 / nicole@thinkingcaptheatre.com or Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / ckassie@gmail.com or visit www.vanguardarts.org or http://thinkingcaptheatre.com

Vita & Virginia
By Eileen Atkins
April 17 – May 3
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets:
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1339884
www.vanguardarts.org
http://thinkingcaptheatre.com
813-220-1546
Performances:
Friday, April 17^th is Opening Night
Double Feature, Saturday, April 18^th, matinee at 3pm; evening performance, 8pm
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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(Brand New Venue!) THE VANGUARD’s Inaugural Production, ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE to open March 13th!

20 Friday Feb 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Always...Patsy Cline, Ann Marie Olson, Ft. Lauderdale Theatre, Nicole Stodard, Patsy Cline, Sally Bondi, The Vanguard, Thinking Cap Theatre

A Brand New Venue!
The Vanguard
will open its doors with
Always…Patsy Cline
by Ted Swindley
March 13 – March 29
The Vanguard in association with Thinking Cap Theatre will present
Always…Patsy Cline as the venue’s inaugural production

For Immediate Release
Contact: Nicole Stodard
nicole@thinkingcaptheatre.com /(813) 220-1546
Contact: Carol Kassie
ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244

February 20, 2015
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: Artists and Patrons of the Arts in Fort Lauderdale and throughout South Florida have a good reason to be excited. This March a new performing arts space will open its doors in the South Andrews corridor of downtown Fort Lauderdale. The venue, The Vanguard, is located at 1501 S. Andrews Avenue in what was formerly a church when the building was first erected in 1939.

Special opening night festivities will take place on March 13th, starting at 7pm, with complimentary ‘Southern fixins’ provided by Tap 42 and other local sponsors, including Croissan’Time, Wine Watch, and Starbucks Coffee. Sculptor Glen Mayo will be displaying a piece entitled “Windows” in the lobby of The Vanguard for the month of March.

The creative team behind The Vanguard has given the space a remodel – with the emphasis on “mod” – because the building’s décor has a definite mid-century flair. The intimate, black box space boasts beautiful, original Dade County pine ceilings that reach 30 feet high. The venue will seat 100 people.

Dubbed a ‘sanctuary for the arts’ – a nod to the building’s history and an indicator of the venue’s mission, The Vanguard will be a creative refuge for artists and arts lovers. Founding Executive Director, Nicole Stodard hopes the unique setting will be a fresh beacon of hope for the arts, particularly theatre, in Broward County:

“For too long Broward has been viewed as the inferior county in between two artistically richer counties, Miami Dade and Palm Beach,” she explains. “I am passionate about helping to change that perception. There is great work being done in our county, and The Vanguard will strive to draw attention to this work by providing it a home.”

The Vanguard will function as a venue as well as a producing entity in its own right. In addition to Vanguard productions, programming will include work by its resident theatre company, Thinking Cap Theatre, along with work by other local and distant theatre practitioners; dance events; film screenings; stand up comedy; art installations; and live music. For more information about The Vanguard, visit www.vanguardarts.org.

Nicole Stodard

The Vanguard has chosen Always Patsy Cline as their inaugural production at The Vanguard. Stodard says the choice was an easy one:

“I grew up listening to my mother and older sister singing Patsy Cline’s songs and came to love her music myself,” she says. “The Vanguard has an air of nostalgia to its atmosphere, so a work that tapped into that nostalgic spirit seemed like a great way to open the venue, not to mention the fact that Cline was a strong woman and a talented artist, and I’m always happy to put talented actresses on stage to tell the stories of other women, real and fictional.”

Ann Marie Olson & Sally Bondi

Always…Patsy Cline is a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically at age 30 in a plane crash in 1963. The play is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. The Vanguard’s production will star Ann Marie Olson as Cline, and Sally Bondi as Seger. Stodard will direct the production, and Andy Gilbert will provide musical direction.

Always…Patsy Cline will run from March 13^th through March 29^th at The Vanguard. Tickets are $35, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased on line at www.vanguardarts.org or by phone at 813-220-1546. Performances are on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 pm, and on Sundays at 5 pm. There is an 8 pm performance on Wednesday, March 25. The Vanguard is located at 1501 S. Andrews Avenue in Ft. Lauderdale (33316).

Always…Patsy Cline
By Ted Swindley
March 13 – 29
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: www.vanguardarts.org / 813-220-1546
Performances:
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm
Wednesday, March 25 at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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WAITING FOR WAITING FOR GODOT – Thinking Cap Theatre’s Premiere Production at the Vanguard

05 Thursday Feb 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, Thinking Cap Theatre

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Christina Groom, comedy, Dave Hanson, Ft. Lauderdale Theatre, Mark Duncan, Nicole Stodard, Samuel Beckett, Scott Douglas Wilson, The Vanguard, The Vanguard Theatre, Thinking Cap Theatre, Waiting for Godot, Waiting for Waiting for Godot

Thinking Cap Theatre
presents the South Eastern Premiere of
Waiting for Waiting for Godot
by Dave Hanson
“…Waiting for Waiting for Godot is a perfectly executed trip into
metatheatrical purgatory…” TimeOut New York

February 5, 2015
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL: What better way to inaugurate a brand new theatrical space than with a play that masterfully and humorously takes on a theatrical classic. Thinking Cap Theatre moves into the Vanguard on February 19^th with Dave Hanson’s critically acclaimed Waiting for Waiting for Godot. The production will run through March 1^st.

Hanson’s comedy about two understudies who are waiting to ‘go on’ in a production of Samuel Beckett’s classic Waiting for Godot – itself a play about two men who wait for a man they’ve never met, who never arrives – is not in any way an adaptation or interpretation of Beckett’s work, but rather a brand new play that examines theatre, acting, and art in a unique, clever, and extremely funny way.

A winner of the Overall Excellence Award for Overall Play at the 2013 New York Fringe Festival, Waiting for Waiting for Godot was described as ‘gleefully absurd’ by TimeOut New York, ‘delectable’ by the New York Times, and ‘damn near perfect’ by Theatre is Easy.

Nicole Stodard

Thinking Cap Theatre’s artistic director Nicole Stodard is directing the production:
“It’s not all that often that you read a script and laugh out loud,” she says “But that was the case with Waiting for Waiting for Godot. Combine that with its smart, reverential winking at Beckett, one of the greatest experimental authors of all time, and of course the added irony of how long TCT has been ‘waiting’ to go on at The Vanguard, and I knew that the play would be a fun way to kick off TCT’s 5th season.”

The production will star Scott Douglas Wilson, Mark Duncan, and Christina Groom.

Thinking Cap Theatre’s new home, The Vanguard is an intimate, versatile, 99-seat black box performance space located in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Formerly a church when first erected in 1939, the freshly remodeled venue will be a modern sanctuary for the arts. Founding Executive Director, Nicole Stodard, and her creative team have given the space a mid-century flair with a mod color palette, Sputnik chandeliers and pop art reminiscent of Warhol adorning the lobby lounge. However, they have preserved the original 30-feet Dade County pine ceiling in the central room that is now the performance area. The Vanguard will serve as the permanent residence for Thinking Cap Theatre, and as a creative hub to showcase a range of artistic offerings, including the work of other local and visiting theatre companies, stand-up comedy, dance, film screenings, art installations, and live music. The venue’s soft opening will take place the weekend of February 20th; its grand opening will follow in the spring upon completion of the building’s facade by Glavovic Studios, the firm that designed the Young at Art Museum. vanguardarts.org
Tickets for Waiting for Waiting for Godot are $30 ($20 for students with ID) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling 813-220-1546 or on line at http://wfwfg.brownpapertickets.com The Vanguard is located at 1501 S. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33301. There is free street parking surrounding the building and a metered municipal lot just south of The Vanguard on Andrews Ave.

For more information about Thinking Cap Theatre/The Vanguard visit www.vanguardarts.org or contact Nicole Stodard at nicole@thinkingcaptheatre.com / 813-220-1546 or Carol Kassie at ckassie@gmail.com /561-445-9244.

Waiting for Waiting for Godot
By Dave Hanson
February 19 – March 1
Thursday 2/19 8pm (Preview)
Friday 2/20 8pm (Opening Night)
Saturday 2/21 8pm
Sunday 2/22 5pm
Wednesday 2/25 8pm
Thursday 2/26 8pm
Friday 2/27 8pm
Saturday 2/28 8pm
Sunday 3/1 (2 Shows) 5pm & 8pm
Tickets: $30 /$20 for students with ID
To purchase tickets: 813-220-1546 / http://wfwfg.brownpapertickets.com
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301
vanguardarts.org

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Carol Kassie

~ Theatrical Marketing & Public Relations

Tag Archives: The Vanguard

Thinking Cap Theatre’s Neo-Restoration Comedy OR, at the Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts – February 19 – March 5

Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard presents Oscar Wilde’s THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST November 20 – December 13

The South Florida Theatre League’s THE DANA PLAYS 2015 to Feature Short Plays by Nine South Florida Playwrights – August 31st at The Vanguard

Thinking Cap Theatre at the Vanguard presents WAITING FOR WAITING FOR GODOT – August 28 – September 13

2015 -2016 Theatre & Concert Schedules

Black Box Booking & Hy Juter present:

The Vanguard presents Amy & David Sedaris’ THE BOOK OF LIZ – June 12 – 28

Thinking Cap theatre at The Vanguard Presents VITA & VIRGINIA by Eileen Atkins April 17th – May 3rd

(Brand New Venue!) THE VANGUARD’s Inaugural Production, ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE to open March 13th!

WAITING FOR WAITING FOR GODOT – Thinking Cap Theatre’s Premiere Production at the Vanguard