By Lynn Venhaus

After a brief hiatus, we’re back with our round-up of people, places, and events in the St. Louis region, a tad behind in posting our September/summer swan song.

IN COMES COMPANY: Stephen Sondheim’s groundbreaking musical “Company” – the female-led revival that won the Tony in 2022, kicks off its 25-city national tour on Oct. 8 in Schenectady, N.Y., with the St. Louis stop Feb. 27-March 10 at the Fox Theatre.

Belleville native Ann Beyersdorfer, associate set designer for the Broadway revival, worked with production designer Bunny Christie, who won her fourth Olivier Award for the London production design. And she’s on the team that has been preparing the hilarious and sophisticated show for the road.

(Three-time Tony Award winner Jack Lane, co-founder and executive producer emeritus of Stages St. Louis, was one of the Broadway show’s co-producers.)

Ann was back in town this summer, as scenic designer for “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” and “West Side Story” at The Muny, and I was fortunate to interview her then for the Belleville News-Democrat.

https://news.yahoo.com/belleville-native-designs-sets-broadway-120000176.html

For a deeper dive into the mechanics of getting a Broadway show transferred to the road, read about her journey here on PopLifeSTL.com:

A winner of best set design of a play for “Afterglow” at the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards, she’ll be part of the team taking the production to London Oct. 17–Nov. 24, with an official opening Oct. 22.

And as an art director on the visual shorts for “Saturday Night Live,” hopefully you will be able to see more of her work when the show resumes on Oct. 14. You may have seen the elaborate “HBO Mario Kart Trailer” she worked on when Emmy-nominated Pedro Pascal hosted.

Cheers to Ann and the tour launch! (We’ll drink to that!). For more information, visit: https://companymusical.com/

Nichelle Lewis, Wayne Brady

BRAND NEW DAY: “The Wiz,” the 1974 super-soul musical adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved children’s novel “The Wizard of Oz,” which was given a reworking for The Muny’s 2018 season, is Broadway-bound in 2024, with St. Louis-connected producers, but this new revival is touring first. Opening night was Sept. 23 at the Hippodrome Theatre in Baltimore, and the reviews were raves.

“The audience and the whole evening was full of joy and energy, extended applause, and standing ovations,” stated the Maryland Theatre Guide on Sept. 29. “Powerhouse performances and stunning choreography,” enthused the Baltimore Sun.

The first-ever revival will be easing down the road to 12 other cities, including Chicago (Nov. 28 – Dec. 10). For more information, visit: https://wizmusical.com/

The producing team of Kristin Caskey and Mike Isaacson (Muny artistic director and executive producer) and a long list of others, including Terry Schnuck, is behind this show. Caskey, now of the Ambassador Theatre Group, spent 20 years with Fox Theatricals. She and Isaacson produced the Tony-winning “Fun Home” in 2015 and this year’s Best Revival winner “Parade.”

Isaacson said they have been working on a revival for eight years, and plans are to mount another national tour after the Broadway limited engagement. In preparation for The Muny, he received permission from the original creators to make some changes. Amber Ruffin, recent Tony nominee for “Some Like It Hot,” wrote additional material – and had worked on the Muny script – from William F. Brown’s original book. You may know her as a writer on “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” as she frequently appears.

Isaacson revealed that in a terrific Broadway World interview with James Lindhorst, who also talked with producers Jack Lane, Mike Bosner and Terry Schnuck – heavy-hitters at this year’s Tonys (“& Juliet,” “Shucked” and “Parade”).

https://www.broadwayworld.com/st-louis/article/Interview-St-Louis-Area-Producers-Mike-Bosner-Mike-Isaacson-Jack-Lane-and-Terry-Schnuck-Nominated-for-Tony-Awards-20230512

Schele Williams is helming this show, with Wayne Brady as The Wiz from Jan. 16 to Broadway engagement, and Alan Mingo Jr. in the title role Sept. 23 – Jan. 14, 2024, and newcomer Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy.

The original 1974 production, directed by Geoffrey Holder and choreographed by George Faison, won seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, and was adapted into a movie in 1978 starring Diana Ross, Richard Pryor, and Michael Jackson. NBC broadcast a live version in 2015, but a planned revival then did not materialize.

Colin, Jeanine

BRUSH WITH GREATNESS: Speaking of the musical “Fun Home,” composer Jeanine Tesori — the most honored and most prolific female theatrical composer in history, was in St. Louis this summer, and stopped in to visit with the local cast rehearing “Caroline, or Change,” produced by Fly North Theatricals.

To get the opportunity to talk with Tesori, who has written five Broadway musicals and received six Tony Award nominations, winning for “Fun Home” and the recent “Kimberly Akimbo,” was one of the best moments ever, according to music director Colin Healy.

Healy summed it up this way on Facebook: “She and Mike Isaacson (producer) offered such wonderful insight into the process of writing, building, and producing ‘Caroline, Or Change,’ validating what is already apparent when hearing the score: how much a labor of love and Herculean creative endeavor ‘Caroline’ was and continues to be… She spoke to us for over an hour and took questions from everyone.”

(Photo: Colin Healy and Jeanine Tesori)

NEW HORIZONS: All good wishes for theater and media folks moving on, changing directions and making the most of opportunities.

Bravo to Taylor Gruenloh, whose new musical “Cascade’s Fire,” a modern Antigone story co-written by Kyle Wernkel, will premiere Oct. 12 and run 13-15 and 19-21 in the Black Box Theatre at Missouri Science and Technology in Rolla, where he is on the Arts, Languages and Philosophy faculty. Taylor wrote the book and lyrics while Wernkel wrote the music.

Taylor recently stepped down as Creative Director at The Tesseract Theatre Company at the end of August, after their successful run of “Kinky Boots.” One of the most prolific and creative folks in town, I can’t wait to see what else he will accomplish.

Congratulations to Joe Gfaller, who has been managing director of Metro Theater Company since 2019, on becoming managing director of Clear Space Theatre Company, a 20-year-old regional theater in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. He’ll be leaving in mid-October. Jessie Youngblood, the current development director, will serve as interim managing director beginning Oct. 9. Always enjoyed working with Joe, starting with the Opera Theater of St. Louis in 2014. Joe has served Metro, St. Louis’s premiere professional theater for youth and families, well.

Best wishes to Julia Flood, Metro artistic director for the past 10 years, who has announced her retirement after the 51st season. Of Joe’s departure, she said: “Joe has had boundless energy and enthusiasm for the mission and work of Metro Theater Company. I feel lucky to have had the benefit of his partnership through the complexities of the pandemic times and wish him much success and happiness in his new venture.”  (They both can be very proud of their endeavors).
 A free Fall Family Festival to celebrate MTC’s 50 years of service to the community will be held on Oct. 21 and 22. A toast in Gfaller’s honor will be held at that event on Sunday, Oct. 22 at 1 p.m. 

Carol Daniel

Carol Daniel may have retired from one prominent longtime gig, but she is embarking on a fantastic journey. The award-winning St. Louis journalist, reporter, host, columnist, and author has joined Nine PBS as a Senior Producer and Host. 

Daniel said she looks forward to telling the stories of her community in a new way — with a podcast about people making an impact here, and also produce interviews and stories that celebrate and showcase underrepresented voices for Nine PBS’s content flagship, Living St. Louis. Yes to this! I look forward to seeing her next chapter.

Daniel has more than 40 years of experience as a host on KMOX Radio, as well as work on Great Day St. Louis on KMOV/Channel 4, and a columnist for the St. Louis American. She’s been honored as a Living Legend by the National Association of Black Journalists–St. Louis, was recently inducted into the Lincoln University Alumni Hall of Fame, and was a 2022 inductee into the St. Louis Media Hall of Fame.  

Longtime public relations and marketing maestros Eric Pugh and Dylan Stanley have departed our fair river city for beachier pastures. Last at the Muny, Eric is now promoting The Asolo Repertory Theatre in Sarasota, Fla., the largest Equity theatre in Florida, and the largest Repertory theatre in Southeastern U.S. Just wonderful to work with both, and I’m glad we had time together.

Dylan, who has moved to Los Angeles with his fiancé, Nicolas Valdez, who is embarking on a fellowship at USC, will keep us posted on his next challenge after giving us his all at Stifel Theatre and Enterprise Center (and performing in Tesseract Theatre Company’s triumphant “Kinky Boots.”

Best wishes to Lee Anne Mathews in her new role as Education and Artistic Director for the Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation!  Before May, she was making things happen at Westport Playhouse.

Congratulations to Brian McKinley on his new role as Director of Education and Community Program at the Black Repertory Theatre of St. Louis.

HOMETOWNERS: Comedian-actor Cedric the Entertainer’s new book, crime caper “Flipping Boxcars,” fictionalizes his grandfather, Floyd “Babe” Boyce.

Jon Hamm is in two, not one, television series this fall. He joined the cast of “The Morning Show” for season 3, now streaming on Apple TV+, and will be in “Fargo,” season 5, which starts Nov. 21 on FX and Hulu.

Nicholas “Sifu” Alsup.
Photo: Robert Voets/CBS

Best wishes to Nicholas “Sifu” Alsup of O’Fallon, Ill., who was chosen as one of 18 contestants on the 45th season of CBS’ “Survivor” that started Sept. 27.He is a larger-than-life personality, and I was able to interview him through permission with CBS. https://news.yahoo.com/o-fallon-gym-owner-one-120000863.html

CHEERS: Congratulations to New Jewish Theatre on their 25th anniversary as a regional professional theatre in St. Louis; and Gateway Center for Performing Arts school, and youth theater company, on their 10th anniversary in Webster Groves. A feature article by me will be in the Webster-Kirkwood Times soon.

OUT AND ABOUT: Two Colins in the ‘Lou news!
Co-owners Colin Healy and Bradley Rohlf of Fly North Theatricals, have opened their new home and social hangout, The Greenfinch Theater and Dive, at 2525 South Jefferson Avenue (the old Way Out Club).. The bar is open every night from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. You won’t want to miss Stool Pigeon Open Mic Comedy Night on Mondays and Drunk Voice Lessons karaoke with live piano accompaniment (and critiques) by Colin Healy on Wednesdays, plus Burlesque Bingo’s in the rotation too. They are also accepting reservations for their black box theater.

Colin Jost

SNL Head Writer Colin Jost was the Celebrity Guest Host at the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s Illumination Gala on June 3 at The Ritz-Carlton, a major fundraising event for the Siteman Cancer Center. Not sure what he said about “The Square Beyond Compare” but Imo’s posted his photo.
Since 2007, the event has raised more than $42 million to support research funds

MEMORY LANE: Last month in pop culture history.

Sept. 26, 1975: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” opened in Westwood, Calif., and tanked at the box office, but later would become the definition of a cult classic, inspiring interactive screenings with toast, toilet paper and more.

If you attended midnight screenings in the late ‘70s at the Varsity Theatre in St. Louis (where Vintage Vinyl is now), you might have run in to a teenage Michael Stipe, future alt-rock band REM frontman, who is dressed as Frank-n-Furter here in this vintage newsclip on KSDK’s “Newsbeat.” He told the reporter: “We’re all normal, really.”

Why on earth was Stipe, now 63, in St. Louis then? His dad was in the Army, and they moved to several states during his childhood. In the late ‘70s, he lived in Collinsville, Ill., and attended high school there and went on to Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville.. Later, he would move to Athens, Ga., for college, and met record store clerk Peter Buck, which led to forming a band with Mike Mills and Bill Berry…and the rest is history..

Rocky Horror played midnights at the Varsity Theatre from April 1976 until Jan. 3, 1988 when it closed for good. It was one of the first 30 theatres in the U.S. to do so.

I was fortunate to interview Barry Bostwick (Brad in the movie) when he had been scheduled to appear at Wizard World in St. Louis, but had to cancel, and he graciously talked about making the movie by phone. True delight to talk with and write about — here’s my BND feature from 2017.

https://www.bnd.com/entertainment/article142667129.html

Anne Meara, Alan Arkin

IN MEMORIAM: Frequent visitor to Gaslight Square with the infamous Compass players, RIP Alan Arkin (March 26, 1934 – June 29, 2023). Archival photo is at Crystal Palace with Anne Meara.

From William Roth, the founder and artistic director of St. Louis Actors’ Studio, who renovated The Gaslight Theatre in the Central West End, on Arkin:

“He made his off-Broadway debut in the late 1950s and joined the St Louis improvisational group the Compass Players in 1959. This led to a stint with the Chicago improv troupe Second City and his Broadway debut, in 1961, in the company’s show ‘From the Second City, which he co-wrote.’

Tony-winning actor Michael McGrath, whose last show was at the Muny this summer – he did a fine job as Mr. Mushnik in “Little Shop of Horrors,” passed away in his sleep Sept. 14 at his home in Bloomfield, N.J. He was 65. That wasn’t his first show in St. Louis – in 1990, he played John Adams in Theater Factory’s “1776.” He was first nominated for a Tony in “Spamalot,” and won for “Nice Work If You Can Get It,” playing a bootlegger, in 2012. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/15/theater/michael-mcgrath-dead.html

Maggie Ryan, founder of Insight Theatre and inspiration to many, who spent 36 years as an English teacher and director of theater at Nerinx Hall, died Sept. 10, at age 80, after a short battle with leukemia. She was a lovely woman to interact with and cared passionately about theater. Insight operated for 12 years, won several St. Louis Theater Circle Awards including a legendary “Death of a Salesman” directed by Wayne Loui and starring father-son duo John and Jason Contini. Unfortunately, Insight closed in 2020.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/stltoday/name/margaret-ryan-obituary?id=53065958

Calvin Wilson, St. Louis Post-Dispatch movie and theater critic, died Aug. 29, from an undisclosed illness. He was 70. I worked with Calvin, both in the St. Louis Film Critics Association, and with the St. Louis Theater Circle, and much admired his writing skill. His insight and passion for the arts will be missed.

https://www.stltoday.com/life-entertainment/local/art-theater/post-dispatch-writer-calvin-wilson-a-passionate-advocate-for-the-arts-dies-at-70/article_8fc9b7bc-46b5-11ee-a3a5-0bdd24dc5828.html

CALENDAR NOTES: John Cusack’s screening of “Say Anything,” originally scheduled for October 28 at Stifel Theatre, has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 30. All tickets for the Oct. 28 performance will be honored at the rescheduled date. The popular actor will follow the screening with a conversation regarding his career and the making of the film. Fans will get the opportunity to experience a moderated discussion, with John answering audience questions as well.

Me and Greta, Oct 1, 2022

SHAMELESS NAME-DROPPING: Before she had the biggest movie of the summer (“Barbie”!) and her second son in February, Greta Gerwig was pleasantly accommodating us press troops at the New York Film Festival 2022 (for “White Noise”). The accomplished actress-writer-director is exactly as she seems, a lovely person in person. I had to compliment her on the 2019 “Little Women,” and she said she had a great time working with the cast of that movie. Hopefully, we will be seeing her during the upcoming awards season. On Aug. 6, the film crossed the $1 billion mark worldwide, making her the first woman with sole director credit to have a movie make more than $1 billion.

(My film review: https://poplifestl.com/unexpected-unpredictable-barbie-is-an-irresistible-pop-o-culture/)

Our coda has been added for this issue:

RANDOM THOUGHTS: As you can probably tell, I enjoy waltzing down memory lane, and yes, I was one of the early attendees of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” midnight showings at the Varsity Theatre in 1977, which was so much fun. If you are a lover of cosplay, I have spied folks in Barbie and Ken outfits at “Barbie” — my prediction for hottest Halloween costumes — and I hear from Abe Goldfarb, hilarious as Otho in the touring company of “Beetlejuice,” who was on the weekly PopLifeSTL.com podcast co-hosted by Carl “The Intern” Middleman and myself on Oct. 4, that there’s many folks dressing up at the shows. He’s excited that they’re here Oct. 13.

The St. Louis Blues open at home Oct. 12. Just once I’d like to buy a team T-shirt where the player I selected isn’t traded. (I bought an Alexander Pietrangelo one — with a C — before the playoffs in ’19 and a Ryan O’Reilly in 2022.)

Are we having the Daylight Savings Time ‘fall back’ happen this year or is it over? Anyone? I’m so confused.

Where in the world is Lynn this weekend? Judging the costume contest at the sensational annual Witches and Wizards Festival in O’Fallon, Ill., a really fun event

Metro Theater Company (MTC), St. Louis’s premiere professional theater for youth and families and St. Louis’ third-oldest professional theater company, announces its 51st season. 

Metro Theater Company’s 2023-24 season celebrates the strength and power we find within ourselves through our connections with others, and the joy that friendship brings, especially in those moments where it is tested. “Season 51 productions are filled with joy. They celebrate acceptance of difference, the importance of friendship, and the strength and wisdom we find in ourselves and our community,” stated Artistic Director Julia Flood. Managing Director Joe Gfaller adds, “As we continue our commitment to reach every child in the St. Louis region over the next decade, this season of live theater and in-school residencies deepens young people’s relationships to one another, our community, and their own imagination,” 

The season kicks off with a tour of Maddi’s Fridge (September 11 – October 22), followed by two productions at The Grandel Theater: Eddie & Vinnie (October 18 – November 5) and the Tony-nominated A Year with Frog and Toad (February 7 – March 3). Through a new partnership with St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund, MTC’s  programming in Season 51 will include in-school residencies of anchor programs Building Community Through Drama and Say Something, Do Something with fourth graders across the University City, Ferguson-Florissant, and Hazelwood school districts. In addition, a special two-day family festival to celebrate 50 years of MTC will be held October 21 and 22. Tickets go on sale to the general public on August 29.  

Metro Theater Company 23-24 Season   

Maddi’s Fridge
By Anne Negri 

Adapted from the book by Lois Brandt 

Directed by Jess Shoemaker 

September 11 – October 18  

Touring to schools across the St. Louis metropolitan region. Limited public performances in September and October 2023. 

What if the only way to help a friend was to break a promise? Sofia and Maddi are best friends. They live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play at the same rock-climbing gym. But when Sofia learns a secret about Maddi’s family, she’s faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi’s empty fridge to help her friend. With humor and heart, this play is sure to inspire conversations with your young people about honesty, sensitivity, empathy and helping others. The cast includes Sarah Lantsberger, Gabrielle Watson Torres, and DeAnté Bryant. Maddi’s Fridge is recommended for ages 5 to 11.  

Free Public Performances 

September 16, 10 am
Buder Library

September 16, 2:30 pm
Central Library

October 1, 2 pm
Stone Barn
Hermann Farm

Fall Family Festival Performances*

October 21 & 22, 10:30 am** & 1:30 pm
Grand Center Arts District
On Oct 22, the 10:30 am performance of Maddi’s Fridge will be Audio Described and ASL-Interpreted. Audio Description by MindsEye. 

Eddie & Vinnie 

A New Play by Jenny Millinger 

Directed by Alicia Revé Like  

October 18 – November 5, 2023 

Grandel Theatre   

Eddie is an unstoppable artist with a uniquely beautiful mind – and his best friend is a gecko. Together, the pair spends hours making intricate and beautiful puzzles. But he’ll be stuck in summer school if he can’t get his grades up. In a last-ditch effort, Eddie teams up with the overly helpful new girl for the dreaded end-of-year report. Will their presentation on MC Escher save his grades? Eddie & Vinnie reminds us that there is more than one way to learn – and more than one way to shine. The cast of Eddie & Vinnie includes Caleb Long, Hailey Medrano and Rae Davis. Eddie & Vinnie is best enjoyed by ages 6-12. 

Public Performance Schedule 

Ticketed Public Performances
October 27 – November 5
Fridays at 7 pm
Saturdays at 10:30 am & 2 pm
Sundays at 2 pm 

Free Fall Family Festival Performances*
October 21 & 22, 12** & 3 pm
**The October 22 12 pm performance of Eddie & Vinnie will be Audio Described and ASL-Interpreted. Audio Description by MindsEye. 

A Year with Frog and Toad
Music by Robert Reale  
Book and Lyrics by Willie Reale
Based on the books by Arnold Lobel
Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)
Directed by Julia Flood
Music Direction by Jeremy Jacobs
Choreography by Tyler White
February 7 – March 3, 2024
Grandel Theatre                                       

Hibernation is over, and it’s time to celebrate! Even though Frog and Toad find joy and wonder in very different things, their year together is filled with adventure. Dive into the delight of Arnold Lobel’s award-winning books in this three-time Tony-nominated musical. Across a jazzy, upbeat score, this nostalgic duo reminds us that individuality makes a friendship stronger – delighting longtime fans and the youngest tadpoles alike! The cast of A Year with Frog and Toad will be announced at a later date. Recommended for all audiences. Best enjoyed by ages 3 – 8. 

Public Performance Schedule 

Fridays at 7 pm
Saturdays at 10:30 am & 2 pm
Sundays at 2 pm 

Tickets to the mainstage 2023-2024 Season productions are $20- $38. Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 am CST on August 29 and are available through metroplays.org. For school bookings, email community@metroplays.org of fill out a bookings interest form online at metroplays.org/education.   

*Fall Family Festival
October 21-22, 2023
Grand Center Arts District
This fall Metro Theater Company partners with some of our region’s most loved arts and education organizations to create two days filled with artmaking, learning, food, and fun. Anchored by MTC’s productions of Maddi’s Fridge and Eddie & Vinnie, this festival will 

help the young people in your life sample all the best of the visual, creative, and 

performing arts. Food trucks on site. General admission is free for all. Advance registration is strongly recommended.  

Institutional and 2023-2024 Season support for Metro Theater Company is provided by 

Regional Arts Commission, Emerson, Crawford Taylor Foundation, Shubert Foundation, Whitaker Foundation, Fred M. Saigh Foundation, Missouri Arts Council, and National Endowment for the Arts.   

About Metro Theater Company: Since 1973, Metro Theater Company has been creating productions that respect young people’s intelligence, tell compelling stories, stimulate curiosity and provoke thoughtful reflection. The Company has reached a total audience of more than two million and has a national reputation for excellence in the field of professional theater for young audiences. Metro Theater Company has received major honors and awards, both locally and nationally. The company is led by Artistic Director Julia Flood and Managing Director Joe Gfaller. For more information, visit metroplays.org.  

By Lynn Venhaus
An engaging cast and relatable story comes alive with joyful music in the world premiere of “Spells of the Sea.”

This uplifting original musical adventure is a joint project from Metro Theater Company and Megan Ann Rasmussen Productions, the first time Metro has partnered commercially with a producer, but one that fulfills its mission – “a commitment to create new work that responds to the emotional intelligence and needs of young people with respect and joy.”

Based on the well-coordinated book, music, and lyrics by Guinevere “Gwenny” Govea, it has additional creative contributions by Anna Pickett, who is the assistant director.

With equal parts whimsy, wonder and wisdom, “Spells of the Sea” has good intentions and a compassionate message. It is designed to reach a wide audience of all ages – recommended for those age 8 and up.

Jon Gentry and Guinevere Govea. Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

Our hero is Finley Frankfurter, a 15-year-old fisherwoman who is not successful in catching fish, but her dad Ferris is a whiz at it. Only her beloved, kind dad, who basically saved the coastal town, has a life-threatening illness.

Can Finley save her dad? Finley is a sweet teen without any confidence, but she grows as she is called to step it up for her dad — and most importantly, finds her purpose. The creator Govea is a charming Finley, a strong singer and actress, conveying a heartfelt relationship with her dad.  Colin McLaughlin, a versatile local musician and actor, is a natural as Ferris Frankfurter. He smoothly guided the boat around the stage. You root for Finley even when she lacks courage.

The town villain is H.S. Crank (Jon Gentry), a grumpy old lighthouse keeper who turned off the light 20 years earlier, causing needless pain and turmoil in the town. Can he redeem himself? Gentry, a sturdy vocalist, is well-suited to be this complicated guy, and we learn why he’s like he is soon enough.

Molly Burris and Gwenny Govea. Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

This unlikely pair travels the ocean to find the Elixir of Life, an elusive remedy, and they encounter mermaids, pirates, and scary whirlpools.

The odyssey comes with honest lessons on family, friendship, and belief in yourself. Trust your abilities. It’s a just-right sincere message straight from the heart.

Govea is a fresh voice to get to know – a recent graduate from the University of Texas at Austin, she developed this story as a podcast during the pandemic. She interacts well with this spirited cast and is a hyphenate with a bright future.

The amiable supporting players include Molly Burris, Syrhea Conaway, Hannah Geisz, Noah Laster, Mitchell Manar, and Tyler White in multiple roles. Burris exaggerates her entitled princess for comic effect, Laster is a robust pirate captain, and the statuesque White is an exotic mermaid serving as a narrator – and also choreographed the show. Laster and Manar contribute as musicians on stage as well, which adds realism.

Colin McLaughlin

The cast is a tight-knit, well-rehearsed, enthusiastic group conveying an earnest story that they believe in, and work well together on stage. With their pure voices and pleasant harmonies, they easily connected with the children in the audience.

The impressive design team has created an enchanting world – with scenic designers Margery and Peter Spack effectively draping materials subbing as sky and sea. It’s a dramatic flourish, and Cristie Johnston, as scenic artist, added some nifty touches too.

The hues are striking, especially with lighting designer Jayson M. Lawshee’s dazzling work. He has creating shimmering seascapes and dawn to dusk time of day depictions that complement this mysterious world.

Costume designer Cynthia Nordstrom combines the everyday with the sparkling to characterize the roles in a smart way.

MTC Artistic Director Julia Flood has created a buoyant setting, and the crisp music direction by Deborah Wicks La Puma adds polish to the proceedings, as does Rusty Wandall’s sound design.

“Spells of the Sea” captivates in an authentic way, aided by the intriguing aspect of nature and the enduring relationships in our life journey that teach us guiding principles.

Pirates and mermaids in ‘Spells of the Sea.” Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

Metro Theater Company presents “Spells of the Sea” live at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square, through March 5 and virtually streaming Feb. 16-March 5 at metroplays.org. It is 70 minutes without an intermission.

Tickets are $20-$36, including ticketing fees, and available through MetroTix, 314-534-1111.

Online virtual streaming begins at $20 and is available through the MTC website, https://www.metroplays.org/spells-of-the-sea.  (The video for the virtual streaming is from an early February filmed performance.)

Gwenny Govea is a hyphenate with a bright future.

Performances are Sundays at 2 p.m., Fridays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Socially distanced performances are at 4 p.m. Saturdays.

There are theme weekends during the play’s run – costumes are welcomed, and there are photo booths with props available for guests to enjoy being a princess, a pirate, or a mermaid in the lobby each weekend.

Tyler White as the mermaid. Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

Metro Theater Company presents the world premiere musical at the Grandel Theatre

World premiere musical adventure originates at Metro Theater Company with anticipated off-Broadway transfer in Fall 2023

Metro Theater Company (MTC), St. Louis’ premier professional theater for youth and families and St. Louis’ third-oldest professional theater company, continues its 2022/23 50th Anniversary Season with the world premiere musical, Spells of the Sea, live at the Grandel Theatre February 10 – March 5 and virtual streaming February 16 – March 5 at metroplays.org. Tickets are $20-$36 (including ticketing fees) and available through MetroTix. 

Due to a breakthrough COVID-19 case within our cast, we are postponing the opening of Spells of the Sea until Friday, February 10 at 7 pm. If you have tickets for the February 5 performance, we will gladly reschedule your tickets to a date of your choice.

Current MTC donors are invited to contact Individual Support and Events Manager Sarah Rugo to exchange your tickets at srugo@metroplays.org. All other patrons may contact either Eleanor Marsh, School Bookings and Audience Services Manager at eleanor@metroplays.org or MetroTix at 314.534.1111 to reschedule.

Our originally scheduled donor reception on February 5 has been moved to Saturday, February 11–following the 1 pm performance.

School matinees will still be offered February 8, 9, and 10.

As a result of the change to our opening date, the start date for streaming will be changing as well. MTC will update our website with those details and contact all ticketed streaming patrons as soon as that start date is finalized.

Spells of the Sea in-person performances run through March 5. Thank you for your understanding and help us wish our cast member a speedy recovery!

At the center of Spells of the Sea is Finley Frankfurter, the 15-year-old daughter of a heroic fisherman, but who herself so far has been terrible at fishing. H.S. Crank is a grumpy old lighthouse keeper who has been sitting for 20 years in the dark. Together, this unlikely pair begins an adventure through the ocean to find ingredients to make the Elixir of Life, an elusive remedy that will save Finley’s father from a mysterious illness. On their journey, the pair encounter mermaids and pirates, whirlpools and their worst fears, and finally a new understanding of the meaning of family, friendship, and trust in yourself. 

Spells of the Sea is Metro Theater Company’s first project in its 50-year history with a commercial production partner. Presented by special arrangement with award-winning commercial producer Megan Ann Rasmussen ProductionsSpells of the Sea is based on the book, music, and lyrics by Guinevere “Gwenny” Govea, with additional creative contributions by Anna Pickett. Gwenny began Spells of the Sea in quarantined isolation in Austin, Texas and developed it into an enchanting podcast during the pandemic. Now, this unique tale breathes new life as an epic musical adventure on stage at the Grandel Theatre. 

Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

“Metro Theater’s 50-year history of creating work that celebrates the emotional wisdom of young people makes this theater the perfect place to create a new musical for families,” said Megan Ann Rasmussen, president of MAR Productions. “They value young people, families, community, and theater that uplifts and strengthens. I can’t think of a better place to make its world premiere.”
The production features innovative olfactory design incorporated into the story, creating a complete ambiance for audiences of all ages at key moments in the musical. After Metro Theater Company’s world premiere, Spells of the Sea makes its way to commercial stages outside of St. Louis, with an anticipated off-Broadway transfer for the fall of 2023.

Spells of the Sea continues Metro Theater Company’s legacy of bringing the best new voices to the stage. Gwenny Govea is an award-winning actor, writer, and composer, who recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. She and Anna Pickett are shining young talents in musical theater whose careers are lifting off, both on stage and off. In Metro Theater Company’s world premiere production of Spells of the Sea, Gwenny plays Finley Frankfurter and Anna serves as assistant director. The production also reflects MTC’s commitment to create new work that responds to the emotional intelligence and needs of young people with respect and joy. 
During Metro Theater Company’s world premiere run, three theme weekends will be offered to help young audiences embrace the fun of the story. Costumes are welcomed each weekend, and themed photo booths with props are available for guests to enjoy being a princess, a pirate, or a mermaid each weekend. 

Spells of the Sea is directed by MTC Artistic Director Julia Flood. Musical direction is by Deborah Wicks La Puma. The cast, which features performers from St. Louis and across the country, includes Molly BurrisSyrhea ConawayHannah GeiszJon GentryGuinevere Govea,Noah LasterMitchell ManarColin McLaughlin, and Tyler White. A full listing of Spells of the Sea design and production team can be found online at https://www.metroplays.org/spells-of-the-seaSpells of the Sea is 70 minutes with no intermission. It’s recommended for ages 8 and up!  

Who/What 

Metro Theater Company by special arrangement with Megan Ann Rasmussen Productions presents the world premiere of Spells of the Sea

When  

February 10 – March 5, 2023

Sundays at 2 p.m.  |   Fridays at 7 p.m.  | Saturdays at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.

Socially distanced performances: Every Saturday at 4 p.m. 

Audio Description performance by MindsEye: February 25 at 4 p.m.

ASL-interpreted performance by DEAF, Inc.: February 26 at 2 p.m.

Where

Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square, St. Louis, MO 63103

Tickets

$20-$36 (including ticketing fees). Tickets are available now through MetroTix at 314-534-1111 or https://www.metroplays.org/spells-of-the-sea.

Theme Weekends

Enjoy fun photo booth opportunities in the lobby of the Grandel Theatre. Costumes are welcomed, but not required. 

Princess Weekend: February 10-12

Pirate Weekend: February 17-19

Mermaid Weekend: February 24-26

Virtual Streaming

February 16 – March 5, 2023

Online virtual streaming begins at $20 and is available through the MTC website, https://www.metroplays.org/spells-of-the-sea.  (The video for the virtual streaming is from an early February filmed performance.) 

Virtual streaming is a part of PNC Arts Alive funding’s of the MTC Remote initiative – MTC’s online streaming of mainstage productions that ensures digital accessibility across the St. Louis region and beyond.

Pay-What-You-Wish Tickets

Metro Theater Company is committed to ensure that economic barriers do not prevent families from experiencing its programs. MTC offers pay-what-you-wish tickets for live performances and virtual streaming. Details at https://www.metroplays.org/spells-of-the-sea.  

Pay-What-You-Wish in-person performances: February 10 at 7 p.m., February 11 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Pay-What-You-Wish streaming: February 16-18 

School Groups & Group Sales

School groups can enjoy live performances or virtual field trips at heavily discounted rates, with streaming tickets available for $5 or less and in-person tickets available for $10 per student. Group sales of 10 tickets or more receive a 40% discount. Full details at https://www.metroplays.org/group-sales.  

Support

Spells of the Sea is presented by National Endowment for the Arts, Thornock Family Fund, and Mid-America Arts Alliance.

Metro Theater Company’s 2022-23 Season lead institutional support comes from The Shubert Foundation, Regional Arts Commission, Emerson, Kranzberg Arts Foundation, Whitaker Foundation, PNC Arts Alive, Crawford Taylor Foundation, Missouri Arts Council, The Opportunity Trust, Arts & Education Council, Trio Foundation of St. Louis, Edward Jones, the Saigh Foundation , and RGA.

For tickets or more information on Spells of the Sea, visit metroplays.org/spells-of-the-sea.

________

About Metro Theater CompanySince 1973, Metro Theater Company has been creating productions that respect young people’s intelligence, tell compelling stories, stimulate curiosity, and provoke thoughtful reflection. The Company has reached a total audience of more than two million and has a national reputation for excellence in the field of professional theater for young audiences. Metro Theater Company has received major honors and awards, both locally and nationally. The company is led by Artistic Director Julia Flood and Managing Director Joe Gfaller. For more information, please visit http://metroplays.org

About Megan Ann Rasmussen Productions Megan Ann Rasmussen is the president of MAR Productions. For more than 20 years she has served as an award-winning producer, director, and educator, creating theater that uplifts and strengthens. She is thrilled to help bring Spells of the Sea to life and celebrate the voices of Gwenny Govea and Anna Pickett. Megan Ann’s Broadway credits include A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (INVESTOR) and Joy: The Musical (CO-PRODUCER), a new show with Tony award-winning producer Ken Davenport. Additional credits include Barry Manilow’s Harmony (INVESTOR), The Griswold’s Broadway Vacation (INVESTOR), Kinky Boots (Off-Broadway | INVESTOR), True North (regional | INVESTOR), and Heaven Come Home (regional | PRODUCER). Her directing credits include Senora Tortuga and Cinderella Eats Rice and Beans: A Salsa Fairy Tale. Megan Ann served as president of Theater for Young Audiences/USA and delegate to the International Association of Theater for Children and Young People. She taught theater at three universities in Utah and was founder and producing artistic director of The Firehouse Theatre for Youth. Megan Ann’s articles and photos can be seen in Stage of the Art and TYA Today. She is the founder of the new podcast Bit by Bit, Broadway’s only podcast dedicated to the producer/investor relationship. For more information, please visit https://meganannrasmussen.com

By Lynn Venhaus

Local Spotlight: “In the Heat of the Night”

To celebrate its 55th anniversary, “In the Heat of the Night” is getting the TCM Big Screen treatment.

The Fathom Event, with special insight from Turner Classic Movies’ Ben Mankiewicz, will be at Marcus Ronnie’s Cine at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 19.

The Oscar-winning film was set in Sparta, Miss., but most of the movie was filmed in Sparta, Ill. Many of the film’s landmarks can still be seen.

Director Norman Jewison shot part of the film in Dyersburg and Union City, Tenn., and the rest in Sparta, Chester, and Freeburg in southern Illinois.

The Plot: While traveling in the Deep South, Virgil Tibbs (Sidney Poitier), a black Philadelphian homicide detective, becomes unwittingly embroiled in the murder investigation of a prominent businessman. Finding the killer, however, proves difficult when his efforts are constantly thwarted by the bigoted town sheriff (Rod Steiger). But neither man can solve this case alone. Putting aside their differences and prejudices, they join forces in a desperate race against time to discover the truth.

Freeburg IL location

Nominated for seven Academy Awards, the film won five. Besides Best Picture and best performance by an actor, the film picked up the Oscars for screenplay from another medium (Stirling Silliphant), editing (Hal Ashby), and sound.

On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 95% based on 83 reviews, with an average rating of 8.40/10. Its consensus states, “Tense, funny, and thought-provoking all at once, and lifted by strong performances from Sydney Poitier and Rod Steiger, director Norman Jewison’s look at murder and racism in small-town America continues to resonate today.”

The movie is available through DirecTV, and for rent on various streaming platforms.

For photos and reminiscences of the local shoot, visit: http://www.themoviedistrict.com/in-the-heat-of-the-night-1967/

“Going to the Movies!” made a video of the places: https://youtu.be/-6uD-hvHhE8

Streaming Theater: Seedfolks

Metro Theater Company presents “Seedfolks” live through Nov. 6 at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square in Grand Center, but can also be viewed via streaming video beginning today.

This is a heart-warming play about neighbors drawn out of their lonely isolation to rediscover and celebrate the community around them.

From award-winning novelist Paul Fleischman, the story is about a vacant lot in a broken neighborhood in the middle of the city that becomes a source of hope, with a dozen different characters bringing their stories to life. Kim is one, a nine-year-old Vietnamese immigrant who plants six precious lima beans. One by one, characters, many also immigrants sow seeds of hope amid the dirt and grit, tending dreams to full bloom. As the garden grows, so does the community, blooming into something bigger, better and beyond all expectations.

The play is 60 minutes without an intermission and is best enjoyed by those age 9 and up.

Local actors John Mayfield, Michael Thanh Tran and Tyler White are featured. It’s directed by Jess Shoemaker.

Performances are Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. (socially distant), and Sundays at 2 p.m.

A Virtual Q&A with author Paul Fleischman is set for Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Registration is free at metroplays.org.

For more information and to get a virtual streaming link, visit www.metroplays.org



Movie: True Crime Thriller

“The Good Nurse” opens today in select theaters and will drop on Netflix on Oct. 26. Starring Jessica Chastain and Eddie Redmayne, this suspenseful film is based on the true crime story of ICU nurse Charles Cullen. Here’s my review:

https://www.poplifestl.com/the-good-nurse-is-tension-filled-investigation-of-shocking-deaths/

Playlist: A-ha!

In 1985, the groundbreaking music video to the synth pop song “Take On Me” gave the Norwegian group a no. 1 hit in America. The innovative video, greenlighted by Warner Brothers executive Jeff Ayeroff is a combination of illustrations and live-action, directed by “Billie Jean” director Steve Barron. It was in heavy rotation on MTV, and won six Video Music Awards, including Best Special Effects, Best Concept, and Viewer’s Choice

The husband-and-wife creative team of Michael Patterson and Candace Reckinger used rotoscope to create the realistic movements, showing a-ha frontman Morten Harket getting a girl to visit his cartoon world. The song and video remain popular to this day.

Here is the remastered music video:

https://youtu.be/djV11Xbc914

Word: National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

“Growing up, I was constantly reminded to not to air our family’s dirty laundry. Part of why domestic violence is allowed to continue is because there is often an unwritten rule in many families of abuse: Don’t ask. Don’t tell. Keeping quiet does no good. I found that sharing my story liberated me from my past. There is power in storytelling and, in that, healing. Owning my truth also empowered me. I will no longer be manipulated or controlled by guilt or shame.” — Kambri Crews

Better Family Life, EarthDance Farms, Eckert’s Belleville Farm, and Metro Theater Company’s Studio are venues where very young audiences and their families can enjoy the musical and visual feast indoors and outdoors. 

St. Louis’s premier professional theater for youth and families and St. Louis’ third-oldest professional theater company, presents In My Granny’s Garden—an ideal production for spring that celebrates the wonders of being outdoors and the magic of growing your own food. In My Granny’s Garden is inspired by the children’s book by acclaimed playwright and New York Times bestselling author Pearl Cleage and her husband, writer and director Zaron W. Burnett Jr. The production is presented in part thanks to the generous support of presenting sponsor, the Whitaker Foundation.

Metro Theater Company designed In My Granny’s Garden as a roving interactive production for St. Louis’s youngest audiences, touring the St. Louis metro area for six weeks with indoor and open air performances, including creative pod seating, at four different venues: Metro Theater Company Studio (May 13-16), Better Family Life (May 20-23), EarthDance Organic Farm School (June 3-12), and Eckert’s Belleville Farm (June 16-26). Pods for 2-6 people start at $48, and MTC’s special offering, Pay-What-You-Wish Pricing, is available at seven select performances. A virtual streaming option starting at $20 is also available June 1-26. Tickets for both live performances and streaming can be purchased at metroplays.org.

In My Granny’s Garden invites the youngest audiences and their families to explore the glory of growing your own food. Watch a tiny seed become a field of corn, green beans, collard greens, and bright red tomatoes. This fun, interactive musical experience is inspired by Pearl Cleage’s and Zaron W. Burnett Jr.’s children’s book, with original paintings by world-renowned artist 
Radcliffe Bailey. Little ones and their grown-ups step into a musical and visual feast to discover the one superpower that fuels Granny’s garden. Premium pod purchases include a copy of the picture book for families to enjoy long after seeing the production.
In My Granny’s Garden promises to leave the very young nourished in body and soul. The production is 40 minutes with optional post-performance activities, and it’s best enjoyed by ages 0-8 and their grown-ups. 

Metro Theater Company’s production of In My Granny’s Garden is directed by Rosemary Newcott, who is an award-winning director who spent 20 years as the Sally G. Tomlinson Artistic Director of Theatre for Youth and Families at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre. The 5-member cast of performers and musicians includes Syrhea ConawayAlicia Revé LikeColin McLaughlinCamille Sharp, and Jenise Sheppard
In My Granny’s Garden was originally developed and produced by the Alliance Theatre (Atlanta, Georgia). 

WHEN:     
May 13 – June 26, 2022Fridays at 4 p.m. Saturdays at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m.Sundays at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. Additional weekday morning performances offered May 16 & 23 and June 8, 9, 16 & 23 at 10 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. 

WHERE: May 13-16: Metro Theater Company Studio (3311 Washington Ave, St. Louis)
May 20-23: Better Family Life (5415 Page Blvd, St. Louis)
June 3-12: EarthDance Organic Farm School (233 S. Dade Ave, Ferguson)
June 16-26: Eckert’s Belleville Farm (951 S. Green Mt Rd, Belleville, IL)
*Performances on June 10 at 4 p.m. and June 19 at 10 a.m. include audio description by MindsEye. 

TICKETS:     
Pods for 2-6 people start at $48. Online virtual streaming begins at $20 and available June 1-26 through the MTC website https://www.metroplays.org/garden. (The video for the virtual streaming is from a filmed May performance.)  

PAY-WHAT-YOU-WISH TICKETS:
Metro Theater Company is committed to ensure that economic barriers do not prevent families from experiencing its programs. MTC is offering Pay-What-You-Wish tickets for live performances and virtual streaming on these dates:  May 13 & 20 at 4pm 
May 21 at 10am, 11:30am & 2pm 
June 3 & 17 at 4 pm More information at https://www.metroplays.org/garden

COVID-19 SAFETY: Metro Theater Company has been approved as Missouri ArtSafe Certified. MTC continues to update its policies to protect all patrons from COVID-19 exposure risks. For In My Granny’s Garden, the following safety measures apply: • Medically eligible guests ages 12+ must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and will be asked to show proof of vaccination. • Unvaccinated patrons ages 12+ with documented medical conditions must be able to provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance or a negative antigen test taken within 6 hours of the performance• Mask wearing is required at indoors performances at Metro Theater Company Studio and Better Family Life. • Masks are not required while seated in purchased pods during open air performances at EarthDance Farms and Eckert’s Belleville Farm. 
For more detailed information on Metro Theater Company’s COVID health policies, please visit metroplays.org/covid

SUPPORT:     
Whitaker Foundation is the presenting sponsor of In My Granny’s Garden.

Generous additional support is provided by the Saigh Foundation and Guy B. Jaffe & Judy Schwartz Jaffe Charitable Foundation of the St. Louis Community Foundation, with in kind support from Eckert’s and Bayer. Berges Family Foundation, Regional Arts Commission, Emerson, Crawford Taylor Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, Centene Charitable Trust, and Missouri Arts Council provide season institutional support.

Streaming of In My Granny’s Garden is part of MTC Remote, a new virtual initiative supported by PNC Arts Alive.

About Metro Theater Company
Since 1973, Metro Theater Company has been creating productions that respect young people’s intelligence, tell compelling stories, stimulate curiosity, and provoke thoughtful reflection. The Company has reached a total audience of more than two million and has a national reputation for excellence in the field of professional theater for young audiences. Metro Theater Company has received major honors and awards, both locally and nationally. The company is led by Artistic Director Julia Flood and Managing Director Joe Gfaller. For more information, please visit http://metroplays.org

Photos by Jennifer A. Lin

By Lynn Venhaus

A sunny, soulful song-and-dance showcase, “Last Stop on Market Street” includes a sweet slice-of-life lesson to engage audiences of all ages.

Metro Theater Company is presenting this vivacious 75-minute musical without intermission at the Grandel Theatre from Feb. 6-27 and is offering a video streaming option, too.

Written by Matt de la Pena with illustrations by Christian Robinson in 2015, the Newberry Medal-winning picture book is considered a modern classic and its theme of inclusivity and community is timeless.

It strikes a chord about finding the good in unexpected places through a child spending time with his out-of-town grandmother. He’s dropped off for the weekend and hasn’t ever spent that much time away from his parents – he’s counting the hours he must be there. Their relationship is rocky at first, and he is a reluctant guest, but eventually grows in love and understanding.

The child, CJ, is spoiled and a bit sheltered, and while bonding with his older and wiser grandmother “Nana,” he learns about the bigger, and very different, world around him. She introduces him to neighbors and new experiences.

Always plugged into his phone and tablet, he learns how fun adventures can be without reliance on screens. She, in turn, learns more about technology. In a relatable way, they appreciate age differences – and bridge the digital divide.

That intergenerational bond, if we’re lucky to experience it, lasts a lifetime – and the legacy beyond that, which this presentation shows so well.

Riding the bus. Photo by Jennifer A. Lin.

It’s always a good thing when we can be reminded of our grandmother’s love and guidance, and how they helped shape our paths. My “Mims” was a special person that I reference almost daily, what an impact this little dynamo made on my life from her 50s until age 80.

With her indomitable spirit, director Jacqueline Thompson has highlighted the colorful book’s emphasis on kindness, compassion, and gratitude.

In her director’s notes, Thompson dedicated the show to “all the Nanas of the world, — our truth tellers, safe spaces, warmth, roots to our foundation and light.” Amen to that. And thank you to Mildred Thompson.

The book was adapted for the stage by Cheryl L. West and co-produced by the Chicago Children’s Theater and the Children’s Theatre Company in 2018.

In bringing this celebration of community to the local region, Metro has enlisted five-star talent to create an outstanding production that unifies young and old, and easily gets folks into the rhythm and out of their seats.

In the neighborhood setting, brightly imagined by scenic designers extraordinaire Margery and Peter Spack, a sense of community is palpable. The Spacks are known for their original creations that evoke whimsy and wonder, and their work here could fit into a PBS set for the Children’s Television Workshop.

Get ready to be energized by the beat, with a Motown-infused score from rhythm-and-blues legend Lamont Dozier and his son Paris Ray Dozier, who have incorporated hip hop, soul, rap and gospel into the catchy music and lyrics.

Music director Phil Woodmore and choreographer Christopher Page-Sanders have captured the Doziers’ vibrancy.

The tight ensemble is like a vitamin shot, with Robert Crenshaw, Daniel McRath, Valentina Silva, Denise Thimes, Cameron Tyler, and Tyler White lifting their voices in heartfelt harmony, and making you smile because of their joie de vivre as they groove to the beats.

Denise Thimes as Nana. Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

Denise Thimes is well-suited to play the inspirational Nana, and her relationship with Daniel McRath, playing CJ, is believable – stern but warm.

Thimes is a local jazz legend and has sung on the world’s greatest stages and with world-class artists. She’s in a league of her own.

Listening to the group sing is enjoyable, but their sublime solo efforts are when we get the full experience of their remarkable vocal chops. Wow.

McRath has an exceptional voice. He’s a graduate of Opera Theatre of St. Louis’s Artist-in-Training program and was in “Aida” at The Muny.

Part of the ensemble, Robert Crenshaw’s voice is also superb, and last seen in “Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope” and “Spell #7,” both at The Black Rep.

Valentina Silva, who is seen in multiple roles, including M. Butterfly, is a versatile performer and recent BFA graduate in musical theater from Webster University. Cameron Tyler, a recent musical theater graduate of Missouri Baptist University, is the sympathetic Jojo, a homeless youth, that opens CJ’s eyes to the plight of others.

Tyler White is a veteran artist who has appeared on multiple stages and easily transitions to different roles, like a bus driver and homeless woman, with authenticity.

With creativity and dedication, the artists and technicians have ensured the details pop to keep youngsters occupied.

The lighting and sound design work is notable, from Jayson M. Lawshee and Jackie “Jackpot” Sharp respectively. Costume designer Felia Davenport crafted each characters’ outfits with personality in mind.

For those who love St. Louis, this charming and delightful production is a special treat from the Metro Theater Company, now in its 49th year, reminding us now, more than ever, small acts of kindness are never wasted. And city living is endlessly educational.

The play is recommended for children ages 5 and up. A short on-stage Q&A with the cast follows the performance.

Valentina Silva, Daniel McRath, Denise Thimes. Photo by Jennifer A. Lin

“Last Stop on Market Street” is live on stage through Feb. 27 at The Grandel Theater, 3610 Grandel Square in Grand Center Arts District, across the street from Powell Hall. Tickets are available at MetroTix at (314) 534-1111 until 4 hours prior to the performance, then at The Grandel box office an hour before the performance.

Seven live performances are left: Feb. 18, 7 p.m.; Feb. 19, 4 p.m.; Feb. 20, 2 and 5 p.m.; Feb. 26, 1 and 4 p.m.; and Feb. 27, 2 p.m.

A video stream of the production is available. For more information: www.metroplays.org/marketstreet

Pandemic Protocols: Please be sure to bring proof of COVID-19 vaccination for every member of your party who is medically eligible for the vaccine. You will not be able to enter the building without proof of vaccination. Mask wearing is required at all times inside the Grandel. For more details, please take a moment to look over the COVID safety procedures on the website. Thank you for doing your part to keep our audiences of all ages safe and healthy!

Daniel McRath as C.J. Jennifer A. Lin Photo.

Photos by Jennifer A. Lin.

Metro Theater Company (MTC), St. Louis’s premiere professional theater for youth and families and St. Louis’ third-oldest theater company, opens its 2021/22 Season with Digging Up Dessa — a poignant, funny, and empowering family-friendly adventure that champions women in science while highlighting self-discovery in young people. Best for ages 10 and up, MTC presents Digging Up Dessa live at the Grandel Theatre, October 17 – November 7, with socially distant seating. A virtual streaming option is also available October 21 – November 7 at metroplays.org. Tickets are $20-$36 and available through MetroTix. 

Digging Up Dessa, written by playwright Laura Schellhardt, had its world premiere at The Kennedy Center in 2018 as part of the Women’s Voices Theatre Festival. The Washington Post celebrated it as a “handsome, funny show,” with D.C. area critics calling it “thoughtful entertainment that is intelligent and involving” (DC Theatre Scene) and “full of heart and innovation…. a rewarding piece of theatre for young audiences” (Theatre Bloom). 

Metro Theater Company’s production of Digging up Dessa is directed by MTC Artistic Director Julia Flood. The all-St. Louis four-member cast of performers includes Rae Davis as Dessa, John Katz as Nilo, Alicia Revé Like as Esther, and Lizi Watt as Mary Anning. 

Dessa is a modern-day 12-year-old with no shortage of mysteries to solve and fossils to find. Her days are filled with buried treasures just waiting to be uncovered. But when her family of three unexpectedly becomes a family of two, this smart, funny young scientist struggles to overcome her grief and anger at all the changes in her world. Dessa’s unlikely comfort comes from a remarkable new friend, one only she can see and hear—Mary Anning, the 19th-century paleontologist who discovered a breakthrough dinosaur fossil at the age of 12 and became a pioneer in her field. But why is her portrait not on the museum wall alongside those of her male counterparts? Dessa decides that she’s going to fight to earn Mary the respect she deserves. With help from her new classmate and once-rival, Nilo, Dessa unearths secrets of the past and present—for Mary’s legacy and her own way forward.
Digging Up Dessa is a 70-minute production with no intermission. The play is recommended for ages 10 and up.  
Themes of the play include comedy-drama-adventure, empowerment for girls, resilience, history, STEAM, and grief. 

WHEN: October 17 – November 7, 2021Sundays at 2 p.m.: Oct. 17, 24, 31 & Nov. 7
Fridays at 7 p.m.: Oct. 22, 29 & Nov. 5
Saturdays at 4 p.m.: Oct. 23, 30 & Nov. 6Wednesdays – Fridays at 10 a.m.: School matinees available upon request for in person field trips
WHERE: The Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square, St. Louis, MO 63103

TICKETS: Tickets are $20-$36 and are available now through MetroTix at 314-534-1111 or https://www.metrotix.com/events/detail/metro-theater-company-digging-up-dessa
Online virtual streaming begins at $20 and is available October 21 – November 7 through the MTC website at https://www.metroplays.org/dessa. (The video for the virtual streaming is from a mid-October filmed performance.)  

School groups can enjoy live performances or virtual field trips at heavily discounted rates, with streaming tickets available for $5 or less and in-person tickets available for $10 per student.

PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN VIEWING PERIOD: Metro Theater Company is committed to ensure that economic barriers do not prevent families from experiencing its programs. MTC is offering a three-day pay-what-you-can viewing period October 21 – 23 for both virtual streaming and in-person performances. More information at https://www.metroplays.org/dessa.

COVID-19 SAFETY: Metro Theater Company has been approved as Missouri ArtSafe Certified. MTC continues to update its policies to protect all patrons from COVID-19 exposure risks. For Digging Up Dessa, the following safety measures apply:   

• Mask wearing is required for ages 2+• Guests ages 12+ must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and will be asked to show proof of vaccination upon arrival at The Grandel• Unvaccinated patrons ages 12+ with documented medical conditions must be able to provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance or a negative antigen test taken within 6 hours of the performance• A minimum of two empty seats and one empty row will separate all parties from one another in the theater
For more detailed information on Metro Theater Company’s COVID health policies, please visit metroplays.org/covid

SUPPORT:
Digging Up Dessa is supported in part by Berges Family Foundation, Regional Arts Commission, Emerson, Crawford Taylor Foundation, PNC Arts Alive, The Shubert Foundation, Whitaker Foundation, Centene Charitable Trust, and Missouri Arts Council. Streaming of Digging Up Dessa is part of MTC Remote, a new virtual initiative supported by PNC Arts Alive.

About Metro Theater Company: Since 1973, Metro Theater Company has been creating productions that respect young people’s intelligence, tell compelling stories, stimulate curiosity and provoke thoughtful reflection. The Company has reached a total audience of more than two million and has a national reputation for excellence in the field of professional theater for young audiences. Institutional support for Metro Theater Company is provided Berges Family Foundation, Regional Arts Commission, Emerson, Crawford Taylor Foundation, Shubert Foundation, Whitaker Foundation, Children’s Theater Foundation of America, Missouri Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Arts and Education Council. Metro Theater Company has received major honors and awards, both locally and nationally. The company is led by Artistic Director Julia Flood and Managing Director Joe Gfaller. For more information, visit http://metroplays.org


Metro Theater Company (MTC), St. Louis’s premiere theater for youth and families, presents a special virtual event for families this December to help keep the community connected during a holiday season that has been transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

MTC’s A Christmas Carol brings together artists, athletes, civic leaders, media personalities, and first responders, for a streamed reading of Charles Dickens holiday classic Thursday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 13 at 2:30 p.m. The public can register for free or make a donation with their registration. As a thanks for a donation of $50 or greater, audiences can receive a commemorative DVD or digital download of the broadcast. The DVDs will be available for all donations made through January 1, 2021.

The beloved holiday story of redemption, transformation, and goodwill comes to life in this all-St. Louis reading. Metro Theater Company Artistic Director Julia Flood adapted the story to produce the hour-long program.

More than 25 outstanding St. Louisans serve as readers for the broadcast, each contributing excerpts on camera, stitched together to create the final broadcast. While additional readers will still be announced, the lineup includes Emmy-nominated television star Ellie Kemper, St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, two-time Tony Award-winning actress Judith Ivey, St. Louis Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak, Grammy Award-winning soprano Christine Brewer, film, stage and voice actor Ken Page, nationally syndicated columnist and St. Louis Post-Dispatch editor Aisha Sultan, St. Louis-based American Ninja Warrior Jamie Rahn, president of the St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature Julius B. Anthony, and medical director for the St. Louis Fire Department Mark Levine

Metro Theater Company’s virtual reading follows a long tradition of readings of Dickens’ novella. Public readings of A Christmas Carol—one of the most beloved and famous holiday stories ever written—have been around since 1853. Dickens adapted the work for public readings, doing more than 120 performances until his death in 1870. The popularity of the readings—staged readings, radio-style readings, family readings, and now virtual readings—continues as does the enchantment of the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, and his transformation into a sympathetic man through visits from the ghost of Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. 

All funds raised through donations to this event will support MTC’s programs during COVID-19 to connect young people to the power and impact of theater, through live performances, virtual programs, and arts-integrated classroom experiences. Corporate and individual sponsorships are available.

WHEN:       Thursday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 13 at 2:30 p.m.  

WHERE:       Virtual Event at http://metroplays.org/christmascarol 

TICKETSTickets are free. Donations are appreciated. Registration is required to receive the link for streaming.

A downloadable digital recording or commemorative DVD is available through January 1, 2021 with a donation of $50. Donors who give $250 or greater will receive the recording as well as a commemorative set of MTC mugs and a hot chocolate mix from St. Louis’s own Kakao Chocolates.

To register for free or to make a donation, please visit http://metroplays.org/christmascarol

NOTES:        A Christmas Carol: A St. Louis Virtual Holiday Reading is 60 minutes and recommended for ages 6 and up

Major support for Metro Theater Company is provided by Emerson, Centene, Arts & Education Council, Berges Family Foundation, Kranzberg Arts Foundation, Missouri Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and Regional Arts Commission. 

About Metro Theater Company: Since 1973, Metro Theater Company has been creating productions that respect young people’s intelligence, tell compelling stories, stimulate curiosity and provoke thoughtful reflection. The Company has reached a total audience of more than two million and has a national reputation for excellence in the field of professional theater for young audiences. Metro Theater Company has received major honors and awards, both locally and nationally. The company is led by Artistic Director Julia Flood and Managing Director Joe Gfaller. For more information, visit http://metroplays.org

Metro Theater Company (MTC), St. Louis’s premiere professional theater for youth and families, continues to expand its artistic footprint into the living rooms of families in St. Louis and across the world with the presentation of two more digital streaming productions this summer, including Early Days — Stories of the Pandemic Digital Archive: A St. Louis COVID-19 Digital Play (live streamed July 29 at 6:30 p.m.) and the virtual premiere of A Kids Play About Racism (available August 1-2).
Both productions are collaborations on the local and national level, and are part of Metro Theater Company’s ongoing efforts and mission to create productions that respect young people’s intelligence, tell compelling stories, stimulate curiosity and provoke thoughtful reflection, even as the St. Louis community adapts to the pandemic.

Early Days — Stories of the Pandemic Digital Archive: A St. Louis COVID-19 Digital PlayWednesday, July 29 at 6:30 p.m.FreeLive-streamed at https://www.metroplays.orghttps://mohistory.org/online-resources or MTC’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/MetroPlays
This short play, written by MTC Producing Associate John Wolbers, is part of Metro Theater Company’s partnership with the Missouri Historical Society to document our region’s experiences with the historic COVID-19 pandemic from the unique perspectives of submissions from people of all backgrounds. Together, the two organizations have created an original 15-minute play set against the backdrop of a teen’s now-Zoom call birthday celebration, as a fictional St. Louis family navigates the changes, perspectives, emotions, and hopes we all shared in March as our lives began to change. MTC Artistic Director Julia Flood directs. The cast for this live-streamed story of courage and resilience features actors, Jacqueline ThompsonNicholas Kryah, and Teens Make History Apprentice Madeline Emke. A Q&A follows the performance.
Teens Make History is a work-based learning program for local high school students. Through long-term, paid apprenticeships in exhibitions and museum theatre, the program aims to build key professional skills and give students the confidence they need to succeed. For more information or to learn how you can support this program, please visit mohistory.org/TMH.
The COVID-19 Memory Project was launched by Metro Theater Company in March 2020 to further connect the St. Louis community through storytelling during this time of social distancing. As COVID-19 has changed how we live, work, play, learn, and connect, MTC encouraged community members to share their experiences, emotions, and hopes. This repository of experiences from young people and families are being adapted into a series of virtual performances, with an ultimate goal of translating these stories into a live performance when such performances can resume. Stories from the Memory Project were incorporated in the Arts United STL virtual fundraiser. This Zoom play is the next installment of new work created through the Memory Project. To submit a story, please visit metroplays.org/MemoryProject.


A Kids Play About RacismSaturday & Sunday, August 1 & 2
Free Streaming at Broadway on Demand, https://www.broadwayondemand.com
Metro Theater Company joins a groundbreaking collaboration among 37 Theatres for Young Audiences across the United States, led by the lead producing team of Bay Area Children’s Theatre, Seattle Children’s Theatre, and Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, to present the virtual premiere of A Kids Play About Racism, a theatrical adaptation of Jelani Memory’s A Kids Book About Racism. Premiering August 1 and 2 on the streaming platform Broadway On Demand, the new work is adapted and directed by award-winning director and TYA artist Khalia Davis and will be brought to life by an entirely Black and BIPOC (Black, indigenous, people of color) cast and creative team from across the United States. A Kids Play About Racism utilizes theatre to offer young children and families a way to engage in meaningful conversation about race. As part of the production, educational materials developed by Seattle Children’s Theatre in collaboration with the Northwest African American Museum will extend the experience and enhance age-appropriate engagement. All 37 partnering theatres are members of Theatre for Young Audiences USA (TYA/USA), the national organization representing the field of theatre for children and family audiences. The streaming of A Kids Play About Racism is accompanied by interviews and educational videos.
The scale and breadth of this co-production has been made possible in part through the network cultivated by TYA/USA, which connects organizations and artists across the country focused on theatre for young people and families. Through the last few months, TYA/USA has offered a range of programming to provide deep connections and resource sharing in response to COVID-19. Through this network, TYA theatres across the country have been able to come together to find ways to support each other and their audiences through new and innovative collaboration models.
A Kids Play About Racism is adapted and directed by Khalia Davis, with music composed by Justin Ellington and Costume Design by Ron McCann (California). It will be performed by Davied Morales (California), Angel Adedokun (California), Moses Goods (Hawaii), Rapheal Hamilton (Arizona), Isaiah Harris (Texas), Jessenia Ingram (Georgia), and Regan Sims (New York).
The work is produced by Bay Area Children’s Theatre, Seattle Children’s Theatre, and Alliance Theatre, in partnership with Adventure Theatre MTC, Arts on the Horizon, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Chicago Children’s Theatre, Children’s Theater of Madison, Children’s Theatre Company, Childsplay, Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, Coterie Theatre, Dallas Children’s Theater, Dare to Dream Theatre, Des Moines Performing Arts, Filament Theatre, First Stage, Honolulu Theatre for Youth, Imagination Stage, The Kennedy Center, Magik Theatre, Metro Theater Company, Nashville Children’s Theatre, New York City Children’s Theater, Oregon Children’s Theatre, Orlando Repertory Theatre, Pink Umbrella Theater Company, ReNew Productions, Rose Theater, Seattle Children’s Theatre, The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey, The Gottabees, The Open Eye Theater, TheatreWorksUSA, Trike Theatre, Trusty Sidekick Theater Company, Wheelock Family Theatre at Boston University, and Orpheum Theatre Group.