Oddfellows Press Releases

The Circus Returns This Weekend!

2012-01-19T11:15:00.002-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Traveling Circus company will remount its new show Adscensio! on Friday January 20 and Saturday January 21 at 7:30pm.

Tickets are $15 for Adults and $8 for Students and Seniors.
You can purchase tickets online here, or call (860) 347-6143 for reservations

“Usually you expect to plan for inclement weather in the winter, you think that you’re biggest obstacle in scheduling a show on Halloween would be trick or treating” said Matthew Pugliese, Executive Director. Pugliese was referring to the Halloween snow storm that cancelled the Traveling Circus’ performance in October.

“The performers have been rehearsing since and really strengthening the show – they really are an amazingly talented and focused group of young circus performers”, commented Pugliese.

The newest circus from Oddfellows Traveling Circus Company is called Adscensio, taken from the Latin word for progress or ascent. The circus explores the advancement of the human race through time by celebrating the great discoveries of history – fire, the wheel, electricity, wireless communication – through the twinkling eyes of the circus. The nine performers, all between the ages of thirteen and seventeen, display their skills, training and vibrancy in a stunning collection of circus acts, including juggling, contortion, unicycling, roman ladders, acrobatics and physical comedy. The Traveling Circus is also available to tour and is currently accepting bookings. Inquiries can be directed to Matt Pugliese.

The Traveling Circus Company is comprised of students that have spent many years in the Children’s Circus of Middletown and CT School of Circus Arts, training under the direction of Dic Wheeler (ARTFARM) and Joel Melendez and Heidi Kirchoffer (Matica Arts). The company is comprised of Middletown residents Richard Carnegie III, Denzell Dempsey, Evan Knoll, Zachary Moeller-Marino, Nathan Linklater, Chris Wilkins , Durham Resident Rebecca Weir, Hartford resident Malaika King and Cromwell’s Jasmine Peck.

Students 12-20 interested in learning how to juggle, unicycle, stilt, balance, clown and perform acrobatics should be sure to catch the performance and register for the CT School of Circus Arts. Led by the creative circus artists of ARTFARM and Matica Arts, the program is the premiere youth circus program in the area. The winter/spring sessions focuses on training and skill development and concludes with the performance of an evening of original circus acts on May 25 & 26.

For more information, or to register for classes call, Oddfellows at (860) 347-6143 or log onto www.oddfellows.org.

Winter classes and programs staring soon!

2012-01-17T13:34:00.006-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is pleased to announce its winter classes and programs. Oddfellows uses high quality arts programs, classes and performances to help young people ages 3 to 20 build self confidence and learn teamwork, cooperation, self-discipline and respect for others. It serves 1,500 students a year from 31 different communities throughout Connecticut.

Its First Act classes are designed to introduce pre-K and kindergarten children to the world of theater through creative play activities, art, movement and song. Students interested in acting for the first time will be able to build their skills in the introductory Complete Actor 1 (grades 1-3) or Complete Actor 2 (grades 4-5).

Oddfellows Playhouse also produces top-quality original theater. This winter the Teen Repertory Company will offer Thorton Wilder’s Our Town

Auditions for Our Town will be held January 24–25 from 6:30–9:30pm at the Playhouse

Before that, Oddfellows is offering pre-audition workshops on January 17–18 from 6:30–8:30pm

There is no charge to participate in the workshops or the auditions.

Happy Holidays from Oddfellows

2011-12-20T11:53:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

As the year comes to an end, and we all look back on what has happened, we here at Oddfellows can’t help but be reminded about all of you.

This year, you’ve been parents to the students you allow us to help learn and grow; audience members to watch our students perform on stage; volunteers at our box office and building circus sets; advocates in the community; and most importantly, donors to support Oddfellows and its programs.

Your donations make it possible for the staff and artists here at Oddfellows to change the lives of 1,282 youngsters across Connecticut.

Your donations provide scholarships so no child can ever be turned away because of financial need.

As you finish up your holiday shopping, thinking about what to give those closest to you, please consider giving a gift to Oddfellows Playhouse. By donating to Oddfellows, you will be giving the gift of theater, self-confidence, and a brighter future to all the children who come here.

From everyone here at the Playhouse, we thank you for all that you make possible. Have a happy holiday and New Year!

Warmly,
The Staff, Artists and Board of Directors of Oddfellows Playhouse

Click the image to watch our new promo video!

Santa is Coming to Oddfellows...sort of...

2011-12-13T13:44:00.000-05:00

Monday, December 12, 2011

Feelin' Grinchy?

at 5:18 PM Posted by Matt Pugliese

Then Oddfellows Playhouse has just the thing to spruce up your wilting holiday feelings.

Just days after record Black Friday sales, during a time of year that is hyper-focused on consumer spending as the barometer of global economic recovery, Oddfellows Playhouse brings to the stage author David Sedaris’ satirical, biting examination of our holiday shopping culture, Santaland Diaries. Adapted for the stage by playwright Joe Mantello, “Santaland Diaries” launched the career of writer and commentator David Sedaris. The play recounts Sedaris’ days as a Christmas elf at Macy’s department store in New York City.

The show is a fundraising event for Oddfellows Playhouse – a youth theater the provides programming and productions by and for young people. The many theater artists involved are donating their time and energy to put the show together to raise money to provide scholarships and cover operating costs. This is a show for mature elves only (13 & up!)

“Santaland Diaries is a natural fit for Oddfellows Playhouse. Over the last 38 years, the theater has had a history of doing contemporary, satirical shows that examine our society. That is exactly what Sedaris’ work is doing. We’re excited to work with Tony and the same talented group of artists to put this show together to benefit Oddfellows Playhouse,” said Pugliese. “We serve over 1,200 students a year and with over 40% percent of our students receiving financial aid, the support we get from stage events like this really helps us keep our doors open,” he said.

The production is directed by Tony Palmieri, who owns and operates Datura – A Modern Garden, a wedding and event floral studio. Palmieri played the role of Crumpet last December at the Playhouse. On directing this year instead of performing, Palmieri said, “When I first sat down with Oddfellows earlier this year to discuss working on the role, I had some reservations about reprising the role. I thought it would be more interesting as an artist and for the audience to see another actor’s interpretation.” This year in the role of Crumpet is actor Michael Lombardi of Hamden, CT.

“Santaland Diaries” by David Sedaris
Adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello
Thursday December 15
Friday December 16
Saturday December 17
All performances at 7:30pm
Adults $25 Students & Seniors $15

Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at (860) 347-6143 or online here.

2011-11-22T16:12:00.029-05:00

ODDFELLOWS GIVES THANKS!

During this time of year, we wanted to introduce you to our new team and share what we are most thankful for.

Joanna Perricone - Program Coordinator

I'm thankful for the opportunity to work at a theater that never turns away a child due to financial hardships.

Terri Benedict - Finance & Development Associate

I am so thankful to work with a great group of dedicated colleagues.

Christopher "Kit" Webb - Administrative Associate

I am thankful to work at Oddfellows and to have a job in an arts organization that is also making a difference.

Courtney Antonioli - Director of Development

I am so grateful to join the OFP family and to be part of a team that cares so much for its students.

Shane Grant - Facilities Associate

I am so thankful to be part of an incredible organization whose great work in my neighborhood means so much to our kids and our community.

Matt Pugliese - Executive Director

I'm thankful for the awesome, hardworking staff we have here, the talented and passionate teaching artists and the opportunity to work at a place that changes the lives of so many young people.

We are also thankful for our generous supporters!

And thankful for our newest supporters:
Middletown Commission of the Arts, who have provided a $2,500 grant to support our production of Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story and the Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, Inc. for the generous support that will allow Oddfellows to purchase a new theater lighting console and monitors.

We wish you a bountiful Thanksgiving with your family!

PLEASE NOTE - Our offices will be closed Wednesday, November 23 - 27. Reopening on Mon. Nov. 28.

Slaughterhouse 5

2011-11-17T10:30:00.001-05:00

Last weekend audiences came out and enjoyed performances by the Teen Repertory Company of Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse 5 adapted by Eric Simonson at Oddfellows Playhouse. The production continues this weekend with performances tonight, Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm. Tickets are available online here or by calling 860-347-6143.

Slaughterhouse 5 tells the story of optometrist and veteran Billy Pilgrim who has become unstuck in time. His fate is decreed, and there is nothing he can do about it. Vonnegut's novel addresses the horrors of war as experienced during the firebombing of Dresden. With dark humor, Vonnegut challenges us to question our place in the universe, the role of fate vs. free will, and serves up a searing testament against the horrors of war. Join the Teen Rep as they take on this modern classic, first produced by the Steppenwolf Theatre Company.

Slaughterhouse 5

Thursday 11/17- Saturday 11/19

All performances at 7:30pm

Tickets: Adults $15 / Students & Seniors $8
Oddfellows Playhouse

128 Washington Street

www.oddfellows.org

Photo credit to Rob McGuinness.

2011-10-14T10:12:00.001-05:00

ODDFELLOWS TRAVELING CIRCUS presents
ADSCENSIO

Taken from the Latin word for progress or ascent, Adsecensio, explores the advancement of the human race through time by celebrating the great discoveries of history – fire, the wheel, electricity, wireless communication – through the twinkling eyes of the circus.

Experience each stunning moment of discovery from fire to phones and beyond and shudder with expectation and recognition as we hurtle toward a surprising, provocative and terrifying finale!

Straight from appearances at the American Youth Circus Festival in Sarasota, Florida and the New York Regional Festival in New York City, the nine performers, all between the ages of 13 and 17 display their skills, training and vibrancy in a stunning collection of circus acts, including juggling, contortion, unicycling, roman ladders, acrobatics and physical comedy.

Friday, October 28 @ 7:30pm
Saturday, October 29 @ 7:30pm

Click here to reserve tickets!

Fall Classes Starting Up

2011-09-15T13:26:00.000-05:00

There are still openings in all classes including the popular Saturday classes for three to four year-olds called Little Fellows and First Act! classes for five to six year-olds. Other classes include Complete Actor 1 classes for students in grades one through three which teach the basics of acting through games, skits, stories and exercises. Complete Actor 2 classes are for 4th and 5th graders and develop the next set of vocal, physical and emotional skills for young actors.

Students who have already taken Complete Actors 1 or 2 may take part in Oddfellows’ popular Mini Productions: The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss and Twain Tales, an original production where students will bring Mark Twain’s beloved short stories to life. Our Technical Theater classes are also on the schedule.

The Teen Repertory Company and Junior Repertory Company schedules remain the same with auditions set for Sept. 12 and 13 for Slaughterhouse 5 and Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story. For more information, to register for classes to performances, call Oddfellows at (860) 347-6143 or log onto Oddfellows HomePage.

Oddfellows programming is made possible through the generous support of the Connecticut Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, The Stare Fund, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, Middlesex United Way, Middlesex County Community Foundation, Pratt & Whitney-Middletown, the Irving Kohn Foundation and the Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Fund. Media support is provided by Comcast.

Children's Circus Rises Like Phoenix with a Golden Nose

2011-08-03T08:20:00.002-05:00

The 2011 Oddfellows Children's Circus is in peril and at risk of closing, unless the young circus performers retrieve the "the golden nose." "The Quest for the Golden Nose" is based on the ancient Greek myth of Jason and the Golden Fleece. The Middletown Children's Circus has adapted the tale to show off their circus talents as they journey to retrieve the nose. In this tale the golden nose has given the circus years of magical success, but this year the gods have decided to test the performers to see if they are worthy to continue to keep the nose. The children have to make it through many challenges including windy boat rides, alligator filled swamps, bullfights, dragons and more.
Oddfellows Playhouse and the Middletown Commission on the Arts present the 23rd Children’s Circus of Middletown: The Quest for the Golden Nose. The one-time-only show will be presented on August 5 at 5 PM at Macdonough School, with a rain date of August 6 at 5 PM.

This Friday 8/5 at 5pm at Macdonough School (66 Spring St, Middletown) is the Children's Circus of Middletown. It really is an incredible event, and shows to highlight the spirit of Oddfellows Playhouse and the Middletown community. So much of what was lost in the February 2011 collapse of the building at 505 Main St. impacted this program.

Over 130 students have worked over the last 5 weeks to put together this incredibly large outdoor performance, which will be witnessed by an audience of over 1,000.

The Middletown community has helped in a variety of ways - people have helped sew and stitch costumes together, paint and build set pieces and puppets. Those who couldn't lend time and energy helped in other ways. On August 1st, Eli Cannon's Tap Room held a Craft Beer Tasting and BBQ, donating the proceeds to Oddfellows. Carrie Carella, General Manager of Eli Cannon's said, "We wanted to help our neighbors. The chaos of construction [Community Health Center next door] helped us realize how important support from the community is. We know the Children's Circus took a big hit when 505 Main St collapsed, destroying costumes and props. We can't sew or act, but we can do an event to help Oddfellows out in a financial way. We thought an event the week of the Circus made a lot of sense."

Q&A with Marcy Arlin

2011-04-27T08:05:00.001-05:00

The Farnsworth Invention

The Farnsworth Invention opens this week at Oddfellows.
Q and A with Guest Director, OBIE Award-winner, Marcy Arlin

Oddfellows Playhouse is delighted to introduce you to Marcy Arlin, Founder and Artistic Director of the OBIE Award-winning Immigrants’ Theatre in New York City. Marcy is a Fulbright Senior Specialist and a Member of the Lincoln Center Theater Directors Lab.

"The opportunity to work with Marcy Arlin challenges the students in new ways,” said Matt Pugliese, Oddfellows Playhouse’s Managing Director, “Not only are they benefiting from Marcy's wealth of experience and artistry, but the personal challenge of meeting the expectations of an Obie award-winning artist from New York.”

“That little phrase changes a lot in the mind of a teenager. And being able to succeed and perform up to her expectations, changes what our student-performers think is possible in their lives,” he said.

Q: What was your first encounter with theater?

A: Oh, maybe when my parents took me to Stratford to see Shakespeare or when I saw Caucasian Chalk Circle at Lincoln Center, or the famed Storybook Theatre that toured the elementary schools out on Long Island when I was a kid.

Q: How did it change your life?

A: I saw a magic event though it was only costumes and light. I also went to Fiedel School of the Creative Arts as a teenager, apprenticed at a children’s theatre in Massachusetts, I did plays and musicals in high school so I truly get Oddfellows. Theater was a creative outlet, a refuge, a place to find other kooks like myself. I think it saved my life during adolescence.

Q: What do you think of Oddfellows?

A: I am completely impressed by the talent and quality of the kids. I arrived at Oddfellows during one of the worst winters in Connecticut’s history. We had to delay the start of rehearsals, because of the ice and snow. And then the terrible damage to the theatre roof. And then the collapse of the building holding the props and costumes. And Jeffery, who hired me, running around talking to the press and the community. I was awed by the generous response of the community and the beloved presence of Oddfellows in the Middletown community. That kind of devotion is rare.

Once the theatre damage had been repaired, the building became crowded with children of all ages taking art, poetry, theatre and circus classes. I met the skilled and warm staff running and teaching these programs. I am honored to be invited by Jeffery Allen, who I have known for many years, to direct a difficult and eccentric play. I am impressed by the high bar that is set for the kids…texts that are difficult, tricky staging, deep, intelligent and meaningful themes. Again, that is rare and should be encouraged and developed.

The last thing I want to mention is that above and beyond the actual work and staging of plays, the most important thing is the progress and development of each individual child. The actors in the Teen Rep are well known to staff who follow their progress, social and artistic, with care and insight.

I am having a great time working with the kids and I hope they feel the same.

Q: What's next for you?

A: (I’m working on) a bi-national, trilingual (ENGLISH/CZECH/VIETNAMESE) performance project about Vietnamese immigrants coming to the U.S. and the Czech Republic, (which is) based on interviews, working with the Firehouse Theatre of Richmond, Virginia and Divadlo Feste (Jester’s Theater) in Brno, Czech Republic. (I’m also) going to Los Angeles in June at the Asian American Theatre Conference to be on a panel on theater and social change and doing some science fiction writing.

Nothing Says Spring Like...

2011-04-12T08:23:00.002-05:00

TAG SALE!

Funds raised will help replace destroyed costumes and props.

Middletown, Conn.- When Oddfellows Playhouse lost its entire props and costume inventory when its storage space at 505 Main Street in Middletown suffered a roof collapse in February, the community responded swiftly and generously. So generously, in fact, that Oddfellows is unable to keep and use everything.

The call for donations of clothes and household items began efforts to start replacing props and costumes. The surplus items are now being offered for sale at a tag sale set for Sat. Apr. 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Oddfellows Playhouse’s theater located at 128 Washington St., Middletown.

This is a rain or shine event and cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted.

Meet Monica Velour

2011-04-11T15:56:00.001-05:00

Meet Monica Velour

Last Friday MEET MONICA VELOUR opened in movie theaters nationwide. Why does this warrant a post? Because writer and director Keith Bearden is an OP Alum! We had the chance to talk with Keith a little bit about his journey to get to this exciting place.

1. What was it like writing and directing your own feature film?

It depends on the day. Writing it felt lonely, waiting years for it to get made was frustrating, the first days of shooting were terrifying, working for months with Kim Cattrall to transform her into Monica Velour was really satisfying, finding my groove on set with my actors and crew was joyful, editing was tedious, having people laugh and be moved by the film at screenings is the best feeling in the world. I understand why directors don’t retire. That feeling is satisfying enough to spend an otherwise frustrating lifetime chasing.

2. How did your Oddfellows experience shape your career path?

I wouldn’t have a career path without Oddfellows! OP validated my interest in the arts. Working class kids in small towns aren’t supposed to dream of being actors or dancers or filmmakers. Oddfellows was and is full of kids and adults who are interested in and love the performing arts. I could see that my passions were not totally alien. Oddfellows encouraged my interests and let my creativity run wild. After film school, and years of writing, schmoozing and dreaming, what started at Oddfellows Playhouse has come to fruition.

3. What was the defining moment of your artistic life (thus far)?

I think when my short movie THE RAFTMAN’S RAZOR got added to the Museum of Modern Art’ s permanent film collection in 2007. A little movie I dreamed up and made with friends is now preserved for time immortal. I almost got a tattoo of the museum catalog number on my arm, but cooler heads prevailed.

4. Why do you feel the arts are an important experience for young people?

I think the best way to raise children is to present them with as many options as possible for what their life could be like as an adult. I feel like too many grown ups are unhappy because they are living someone else’s life—not a bad life, just not the one that’s right for them. Oddfellows fills such a gap left by school, and sports, and most homes—it’s a non-competitive place to learn about the arts, to be taken seriously and express yourself. Oddfellows is such a different experience for young people, I feel like it’s a huge help in filling in details of the map of the adult world before they have to venture out in it. It’s not that every OP kid becomes a working artist—though it exposes them to that option--but it starts them on their own journey of self-discovery that will aid them so much as the enter the often tricky and treacherous grown-up world. Knowing yourself is the first step in making the right decision, and I think everyone learns new things about themselves at Oddfellows.

5. What is the most challenging part of making a life in the arts?

A: Well, obviously the most challenging part is making a real living doing your art in a country whose government doesn’t support artists (living in Europe looks really good sometimes). The other challenge is more abstract, but more paramount—finding and refining your voice as an artist. What do you have to say, or show, or give, that is special and unique to you? How do you stay true to that in a way that other people will find moving or evocative? Can you work with other people, or in existing structures, and still let that special voice, that flavor, that worldview, shine through? Especially for a filmmaker, where there are so many people and elements to work with, it’s a day-to-day issue. Also, how do you succeed in the arts without becoming a person you don’t want to be? A megalomaniac or a phony or a tyrant? Most film directors are arrogant jerks, because it helps them get their way on screen. I have a hard time being that kind of person.

Spring Forward with Spring Classes

2011-03-13T08:17:00.000-05:00

Spring Forward with Spring Classes

Oddfellows Playhouse Youth Theater is now registering students for its spring theater programs. There is a full slate of Saturday morning class offerings for all ages, and exciting mini-productions during the week. Interested parents and children can visit Oddfellows Playhouse’s website to view the entire line up of classes. Registration is now available on line as well.

We are expanding our Saturday morning classes to include Little Fellows for students ages three and four. Also newly added is “First Act” for children ages five and six. These classes are a wonderful way to introduce your already imaginative and creative child to the world of theater through games, activities, art, movement and songs.

Due to popular demand “The Complete Actor” class for ages six through eight is being offered on Thursdays AND Saturday mornings. "The Complete Actor 2" for students ages nine to eleven will be offered on Wednesdays AND Saturday mornings. These classes features a curriculum of age-appropriate, basic acting, voice, and movement training for students who have recently caught the acting bug.

Spring Mini-Productions for students that have already completed study in "The Complete Actor" include "Three Samurai Cats: A Story from Japan" for students ages six to eight, and "Rootabaga Tales" by Carl Sandburg for students ages nine to eleven.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street, Middletown. For 35 years Oddfellows Playhouse has been more than just a performing arts program. It aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live. For more information or to reserve a spot in a fall class, call (860) 347-6143 or go to www.oddfellows.org.

Oddfellows programming is made possible through the generous support of the CT Department of Education, the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, The Stare Fund, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, Pratt & Whitney-Middletown, the Irving Kohn Foundation, Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Fund and our Media Sponsor Comcast Cable.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

2011-03-09T11:50:00.000-05:00

After a long and hard winter, Oddfellows Playhouse is ready to stage its first production of the winter session.

The Junior Repertory actors will perform the C.S. Lewis classic The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe sponsored by Price Chopper's Golub Foundation. The production runs Thursday March 10 through Saturday March 12. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. The approximate run time of the show is 80 minutes and is appropriate for children of all ages.

The production is made possible by major support from CT State Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, The Stare Fund, Pratt & Whitney–Middletown, Middletown Commission on the Arts, City of Middletown CDBG Scholarship Program, Media Sponsor Comcast Cable and Radio Sponsor WESU 88.1FM

Tickets are available by calling Oddfellows at (860) 347-6143 or at tickets@oddfellows.org.
$15 Adults/$8 Students and Seniors

Summer is Almost Here

2011-03-03T14:41:00.002-05:00

Registration now open for Oddfellows' summer programs for students ages 4-20.

Summer Theater based on the World and Work of Eric Carle (Ages 4-7)
Working with professional teaching artists, children will be at the center of the action, writing, acting, painting and creating a new story inspired by the work of the beloved author and illustrator. Students may take one session or both, and get ready to have a very busy time!

Registration forms are available online.

Days: Monday-Friday, 9am-3:30 pm
Session 1: July 11-22 and
Session 2: August 1-12
Location: Oddfellows Playhouse
Tuition: $350 per session
Limit: 15 per age group

Children's Circus of Middletown
Registrations are now being accepted for Oddfellows Playhouse 's 23rd Annual Children's Circus of Middletown - presented by the Middletown Commission on the Arts, the City of Middletown, the Middlesex United Way and Media Sponsor Comcast Cable.

Students train in acrobatics, dance, juggling, unicycling, stilt walking, clowning, balance and visual arts and create a spectacular outdoor circus performance before an audience of over 1,000. Registration for the program is through the Middletown Commission on the Arts KIDS ARTS programs. Applications are available at Oddfellows Playhouse, the Middletown Park and Recreation & Arts Office, the Russell Library and online. Students that do not live in Middletown can participate in the program.

Ages: 8–14
Times: Monday thru Friday, July 5–August 6; 9–11:30 am or 12:30–3 pm
Performance: Friday, August 6, 5 pm (rain date: Saturday, August 7, 5 pm)
Location: Macdonough School
Tuition: $125—Middletown Residents; $250—Non-Middletown Residents

Summer Shakespeare Academy: Romeo and Juliet
An intensive, four week Shakespeare-in-performance program for high school students led by four highly skilled, professional theater artists. The Summer Shakespeare Academy focuses on rigorous theater training directly connected to the performance of one Shakespeare's plays. The program focuses on production, but uses the rehearsal and production processes as a teaching medium as well. Classes in text analysis, for example, will be specific to each student's character development, and classes in stage combat will lay a foundation for performance fight choreography. Interested students must fill out an application and schedule an audition with Jeffery Allen by calling 860-347-6143.

Rehersals: Mondays through Friday, 9am–3:30 pm
July 5-July 29 (Beginning Tuesday July 5)
Performances: July 28-30 at 7 pm
Tuition: $700 (Second child: $500)

One Man's Trash is Another Man's...Costume?

2011-02-17T14:23:00.003-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse to rebuild props, costumes with tag sale

Middletown, CT - In an effort to start replacing the props and costumes that were lost in the recent roof collapse of the Oddfellows storage space at 505 Main Street in Middletown, Oddfellows will be collecting donated items and putting on a tag sale to raise money.

Donated items will be accepted at Oddfellows Playhouse at 128 Washington Street, Middletown on February 25, March 4 and March 11 from 10 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sat., March 5 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
“While all donations are appreciated, we simply can't keep everything,” said Matt Pugliese, Managing Director for Oddfellows. “Our designers, artists and technical director will select the pieces we will need,” he said.

All other items will be sold at a tag sale set for Sat., Apr. 16 at Oddfellows Playhouse. The proceeds from this tag sale will be used to offset the theater’s production costs.

“We lost 2,000 costumes including everything we need to costume 200 circus performers during our summer circus,” said Pugliese. “At $100 a performer, just that alone is a $20,000 loss,” he said.

Financial donations may also be made to immediately help with the production costs of shows set to take the stage beginning with the Mar. 10 performance of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.

Financial donations can be made online or for more information regarding items for the tag sale contact Paul at (860) 347-6143 or paul@oddfellows.org.

-more-

As A Side Bar:
To help replenish the supplies that dress our actors and furnish our stages, Oddfellows is seeking unwanted items from your closets. All items are welcomed but these specific items are always in need:

MENS (all sizes)
• suits, jackets, slacks, khakis: all colors, but preferably black, gray, navy, and tan
• button down shirts, all colors, preferably white and light colors
• ties, all types and patterns
• dress shoes, all colors, preferably black
• top coats, preferably dark colors
• vests, tailored and knit in black, gray, and brown
• sweaters, pullover and cardigan, preferably black , gray, and brown
• vintage hats, any type, particularly felt fedoras, hombeurgs, bowlers, and newsboy types
• suspenders, and belts, any type

WOMENS ( all sizes)
• suits, jackets, slacks, khakis all colors, but preferably black, gray, navy, and tan
• blouses, all types, all colors, preferably non-patterned
• skirts, all types, all colors
• dresses, non-formal, day wear
• dress shoes, all types, all colors, preferably black
• topcoats, preferably dark colors
• vintage hats, all types, all colors
• dress gloves

OTHER ITEMS
• plastic or wooden hangers, suit and pant hangers
• large plastic storage bins

PROPS
• old suitcases and travel accessories
• lamps and period looking items
• house wares
• old crates and boxes
• eyeglasses
• fake or prop food items
• any vintage items in general

Mayor's Ball donates $5,000 to Oddfellows

2011-02-07T09:00:00.001-05:00

Two weeks ago, the Committee for the Mayor's Ball declared that Oddfellows Playhouse will be beneficiary of funds raised at the event. An average of $15,000 has been raised in past years.

In yesterday's building collapse, Oddfellows lost 36 years of costumes and props. According to Committee co-chair Sandra Russo-Driska, because response to the Mayor's Ball with Oddfellows Playhouse as beneficiary has been so popular, so early, the committee decided to make an early donation of $5,000 to Oddfellows.

"The words are so inadequate, but we thank everyone for Oddfellows," Producing Artistic Director of Oddfellows Jeffrey Allen said. "But not just for Oddfellows, but for the youth of Middletown. As the saying goes: the show must go on."

The sixth-annual Mayor’s Ball, Cirque de Joie, will take place at St. Clement’s Castle in Portland, on Saturday, March 26, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person and are available at the mayor’s office or the town clerk’s office in city hall at (860)344-3400.

Donations can also be made online to Oddfellows Playhouse.

Photo Credit: Ed McKeon, Middletown Eye

Thank You

2011-02-06T10:00:00.001-05:00

To the Middletown Community,

At Oddfellows Playhouse we know the show must go on and thanks to our supporters, students and friends it will.

This winter has been a tough one for us, as it has been for so many. Last month an ice dam resulted in a flooding and the gutting of parts of our building and this week the roof collapse at 505 Main Street resulted in the total loss of our entire props and costuming inventory. No more circus costumes for our summer circus program, no more Shakespearean costumes, no more lanterns, trunks or swords, or any other props so skillfully crafted over the years.

What we do have is a deep gratitude that no one was hurt and we are truly touched by the outpouring of support we continue to get from residents in Middletown and around the state. Costumes and props are replaceable – lives are not.

We really appreciate the many offers to help with costumes and other items but currently Oddfellows has no place to store them; however, we are able to accept monetary help, and quite frankly, we are going to need it to offset the inevitable increase in our production costs.

Oddfellows has a proud 36 year history of fostering the growth and creativity in the 2,000 students we serve each year and we will continue to do that for many years to come. We are proud to be a part of the Middletown community - and a resource enjoyed by all.

Warmly,
Matt Pugliese
Managing Director
&
Jeffery Allen
Producing Artistic Director

Costume and Prop Storage Lost

2011-02-05T10:10:00.003-05:00

The office building at 505 Main Street in Middletown that suffered a roof collapse onWednesday February 2, housed the props and costumes that Oddfellows Playhouse had collected over its 35 year history.

Inventory is being itemized and damage is being assessed but it looks as though the entire inventory will be a total loss.

The building also housed Middletown Framing, a barbershop, Tesoro and Guilmartin, DiPiro and Sokolowski, CPAs. No one was injured in the collapse.

Oddfellows Playhouse suffered a breach in its roof at its main building located at 128 Washington Street last month, forcing classes to be relocated to First Church at 109 Court St.

Photo courtesy of the Middletown Police Department.

Renowned Circus Performer Rob Mermin kicks off national tour in Middletown

2011-01-13T17:31:00.004-05:00

PRESS RELEASE
Oddfellows Playhouse and ARTFARM collaborate on event about the history of the circus

Middletown, Conn. – Oddfellows Playhouse and ARTFARM are pleased to announce Rob Mermin, founder of the international youth company Circus Smirkus, will kick off his national speaking tour with an evening of personal anecdotes and film clips on circus history at Oddfellows Playhouse located at 128 Washington St. in Middletown.

The lecture, filled with clips from Hollywood circus feature films and personal stories, will begin at 7 p.m. and is made possible by a grant from the Middletown Commission of the Arts.

"It is great that the Middletown Commission on the Arts is making it possible for Rob to come here,” said Matthew Pugliese, Managing Director for Oddfellows Playouse. “The MCA is the sponsor of our Children's Circus of Middletown, in its 23rd year this summer, and ARTFARM's Circus for a Fragile Planet. Rob is kicking off his national tour to raise awareness for youth circus here in Middletown - which shows just how important these programs are. Rob is also leading a workshop with the students of the CT School of Circus Arts - a premiere youth circus program led by artists from ARTFARM and Matica Arts. There is an amazing amount of circus right here in Middletown."

Mermin is an award-winning performer with Copenhagen’s Gold Clown. He has also been awarded Russia’s Best Director Prize and the Governor’s Award of Excellence, Vermont’s highest honor in the arts.

Mermin trained with the renowned mimes Marcel Marceau and Etienne Decroux, and is also a former Dean of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College.

Mermin will delight the audience with stories of running off to join the circus as a teen in the late 60’s. During the next forty years his circus adventures took him clowning with tent shows in Wales, mule wrangling in Lapland with Sweden’s Circus Scott, riding with the Magyars in the Hungarian State Cirkusz, three years with the famous Benneweis Circus Building in Copenhagen, and entertaining royalty in the circus palaces of Europe and Russia.

In 1987, he founded Circus Smirkus, which The Boston Globe called “one of New England’s most treasured cultural and educational resources.”

Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased by calling the box office at (860) 347-6143, by e-mail at tickets@oddfellows.org or online at oddfellows.org.

About Oddfellows Playhouse:

The CT School of Circus Arts is a circus training program for students ages 12-18. Students meet on Monday evenings and build skills as jugglers, unicyclists, acrobats, clowns and stilters. The program is led by creative artists of ARTFARM and Matica Arts. This is the only year-round structured circus training program in Connecticut and is designed to serve both beginning and experienced performers. Interested students can visit www.oddfellows.org for more information.

Oddfellows programming is made possible through the generous support of the CT Department of Education, the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, The Stare Fund, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, Pratt & Whitney-Middletown, the Irving Kohn Foundation and the Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Fund.

Santaland Success

2011-01-11T11:20:00.004-05:00

The special performance of Santaland Diaries December 15-18 was a great success, raising $4,700 to help Oddfellows Playhouse keep the doors open, the lights on and high-quality programming available to ALL students.

Thank you to everyone who put in their time and energy to make this production possible, especially Tony Palmieri, who strutted the stage in tights as the prickly elf, Crumpet. We hope everyone enjoyed Santaland Diaries as much as we did.

Santaland Diaries is just one of the many fundraising efforts on the part of Oddfellows Playhouse to help replace continually shrinking grant funding at the state level. Oddfellows Playhouse is committed to providing high quality theatrical programming to children, regardless of their financial situation. We thank all of our funders whose stable, continued support is making this possible - including Pratt & Whitney-Middletown and The Stare Fund.

Foundations Support Neighborhood Troupes Program

2010-12-13T11:23:00.000-05:00

Several foundations have awarded generous grants to Oddfellows' Neighborhood Troupes/Arts Explorers program in 2010-11. The Elizabeth Carse Foundation, Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Fund and George A. and Grace L. Long Foundation all awarded grants this month to the program.

In 2010-11, Oddfellows is collaborating with the Middletown public school system to hold the Neighborhood Troupes after-school program in Bielefield and Farm Hill Elementary Schools. This allows us to streamline our transportation costs by using the late buses at the schools. Oddfellows’ Troupes leaders and their student teaching assistants meet their Troupes at the schools one afternoon a week to work on activities that build performing arts and life skills. Bielefield School has one Oddfellows Troupe each for grades K-2 and 3-5; Farm Hill has two Troupes for these same grades.. The Troupes are still Oddfellows, but now in locations that we hope will better serve our students.

In an effort to keep at-risk middle-school students engaged, Oddfellows has integrated its innovative Arts Explorers program of in-depth arts training and job readiness with the Troupes this year. Giving this Troupe for ages 12-15 a distinct name and focus gives the youngsters a sense of maturity and transitioning to ad[EB3] ulthood. The 35 Arts Explorers Troupe members are from Keigwin and Woodrow Wilson Middle Schools. Students meet at the Playhouse one evening a week, and work exclusively with a professional artist on visual art, writing, or dance. Arts Explorers is a partnership with Middletown Youth Services, which provides extra support for the teens at the school level.

The Troupes and Arts Explorers expand the world view of young people who need extra support to grow up to be successful adults. These programs continue to serve Oddfellows’ mission and remain among our highest priorities.

Photo by Ofer Levy; Arts Explorers Group Dancing

Life of Galileo - Final Weekend

2010-12-09T10:21:00.004-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Rep to stage “The Life of Galileo”

Middletown, Conn. –“The Life of Galileo" will come to life this week when Oddfellows Playhouse’s Teen Repertory Company brings it to the stage. Opening night was December 2.

“The Life of Galileo”, by Bertolt Brecht, is the story of the man who used science to prove the Sun was the center of the universe. When he published his work and challenged the Church, he was left with nothing. Performances are set for December 10-11.

All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased by calling the box office at (860) 347-6143 or by e-mail at tickets@oddfellows.org.

About Oddfellows Playhouse: Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street, Middletown. For more than 35 years Oddfellows Playhouse has been more than just a performing arts program. It aims to make a positive difference in the lives of 2,000 young people each year by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live.

Oddfellows programming is made possible through the generous support of the CT Department of Education, the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, The Stare Fund, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, Pratt & Whitney-Middletown, the Irving Kohn Foundation and the Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Fund.

Holiday Production!

2010-11-22T14:06:00.002-05:00

SantaLand Diaries at Oddfellows, December 16-19

Oddfellows presents David Sedaris’ witty and sardonic holiday treat, The SantaLand Diaries, adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello. Well-known local actor Tony Palmieri as Crumpet the Elf brings to life this humorous account of a Christmas elf’s experience in Macy’s department store. This show, directed by Jeffery Allen, is intended for mature elves. Performances are 7:00 pm on December 16 & 17, 7:00 & 9:00pm on December 18 and 2:00 pm on December 19. Tickets are $25. For more information and reservations, call (860) 347-6143 or visit our website at www.oddfellows.org.

Many of the professional artists involved in this production are donating their services to Oddfellows in order to make this a fundraising event. With 50% of the students in our fall classes receiving scholarship aid, it is as important as ever to raise the funds to keep Oddfellows’ doors open and lights on, especially as we enter the cold winter months! We hope that the SantaLand Diaries is a Christmas event enjoyed by the community.

Fall 2010 Share Day

2010-11-11T08:39:00.000-05:00

Fall 2010 Share Day was a success!

Share Day at Oddfellows Playhouse is just what it sounds like--a chance for our young people to share what they have created and learned over the course of 8 weeks. Featuring young people between the ages of 4-14, from over 24 different communities, friends and family share in the accomplishments of our mini productions or introductory acting classes.

The results are already in from our evaluations, rated "excellent" by our parents and young people alike.

This fall our amazing, professional staff led the talented youth in an original adaptation of Where the Wild Things Are, a brand new play called Other Side of the Tale about storybook villains re-defined, and in basic acting classes. The addition of Saturday sessions is proving to be very successful. We are fortunate to have the same strong staff returning for our winter classes. Winter classes begin on January 24, 2011 and registration is open now.

RUR kicks off Oddfellows' Main Stage

2010-11-10T08:35:00.002-05:00

Oddfellows 36th season opens this week

First performance of RUR slated for Nov. 11

Oddfellows Playhouse will kick off its 36th Main Stage Season on Nov. 11 with a preview performance when its Teen Repertory Company performs Karel Capek’s RUR at 7:00 p.m. Additional performance dates are Nov. 12, 13, 19 and 20. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Reserved Seating $20.

First written in 1920, the book, later adapted by Dr. Claudia Novack, is the first literature to coin the word “robot”. In the play The Rossum Company solves the world’s labor demand by creating a race of enslaved robots but when they revolt the future of humanity and what it means to be human are put to the ultimate test.

“All of our Teen Rep plays this year explore the ethics of science and creation,” said Jeffery Allen, Producing Artistic Director for Oddfellows Playhouse. “It’s a virtue of ours to choose mature plays that give our young people the chance to be challenged and to view their world through a different lens,” he said.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the box office at (860) 347-6143 or by e-mail at tickets@oddfellows.org.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PLANS 35TH BIRTHDAY BENEFIT

2009-11-19T13:28:00.006-05:00

DATES OF EVENT: JUNE 17, 2010

CONTACT: SUSAN BROWN OR MATT PUGLIESE, (860) 347-6143

Save the date! Oddfellows Playhouse, Connecticut’s oldest and largest youth theater, will mark a major milestone in its history, its 35^th birthday, with a gala celebration and fundraiser on Thursday, June 17 at St. Clement’s Castle in Portland. This benefit for Oddfellows will feature the presentation of Oddfellows’ 1^st Distinguished Alumni Award, great food, live and silent auctions, and much more.

Working with Oddfellows’ Board of Directors and staff in organizing this fun-filled evening is a stellar Honorary Board of distinguished civic and business leaders: Larry McHugh, President of the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce; Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro; Congressman John Larson; Mayor Sebastian Giuliano; CT Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz; Mark Masselli, President/CEO of the Community Health Center; Rich Barry, President of Citizens Bank CT; Chandler Howard, President/CEO of Liberty Bank; Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University; Wilfredo Nieves, President of Middlesex Community College; and Dr. Arthur “Bud” McDowell, Director of Medicine, at Middlesex Hospital.

In 1975, three Wesleyan University students with a commitment to creating high-quality theater and helping kids founded Oddfellows. They believed that by exposing kids to the magic of theater in a supportive, noncompetitive, yet challenging, environment, youngsters would learn skills that would last a lifetime and get to know kids from many different backgrounds. Thirty-five years later, we have succeeded beyond all expectations. Tens of thousands of young people – from ages 2 to 20 – from throughout central Connecticut have participated in Oddfellows after-school and summer classes and productions. Not only do the kids have a joyful experience, but they also come away with enhanced life skills and a sense of empowerment as a result of having successfully navigated significant theatrical challenges.

To learn more about the 35^th Birthday Gala, please call (860) 347-6143 or visit www.oddfellows.org/35gala.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE KICKS OFF “AROUND MIDDLETOWN IN 80 DAYS

2009-08-18T12:46:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse kicks off its 35^th season with “Around Middletown in 80 Days,” an ongoing event that highlights 80 happenings, locations, and restaurants that make Middletown a great place to live. This celebration of our home town begins on August 25 and ends on November 13 with the opening of Oddfellows’ Teen Repertory Company production of /Around the World in 80 Days/.

This event is also a great way to support Oddfellows. Tuesdays from August 25 to November 13 are restaurant nights. Every week a different Middletown restaurant will be featured, and on that night, the featured restaurant will donate a portion of the evening’s proceeds to Oddfellows Playhouse. “Around Middletown in 80 Days” opens at *It’s Only Natural* restaurant on August 25. Other featured restaurants are *Amici’s* (September 1); *Typhoon* (September 8, 15, and 22); *Osaka* (October 6); *O’Rourke’s Diner* (October 13); *Armory Tavern/Inn at Middletown* (October 20); *Tuscany Grill* (November 3); and *Thai Gardens* (November 10).

At every event you attend, you will be given a raffle ticket. Prizes will be awarded on November 13 at a drawing during the intermission of opening night of /Around the World in 80 Days/. The more events you go to, the more raffle tickets you’ll have and the greater your chances of winning. Anyone can participate, and you don’t have to be present at the drawing to win

To add to the fun, download your very own cut-out of Phileas Fogg, the intrepid English traveler, and take him around Middletown between August 25 and November 13. To share Phileas’ journey around Middletown, take picture of him and upload them to Oddfellows Playhouse Facebook site or email them to 80days@oddfellows.org . Look for Phileas Fogg around Middletown this fall!

For a complete list of “Around Middletown in 80 Days” events and happenings, visit www.oddfellows.org . For more information, call (860) 347-6143.

Oddfellows’ 09-10 season is supported by grants from the CT State Department of Education, The J. Walton Bissell Foundation, Pratt and Whitney-Middletown, The Stare Fund, and the Middletown Commission on the Arts.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND

2009-06-23T15:42:00.000-05:00

The Children’s Circus of Middletown, run by Oddfellows Playhouse as part of the Middletown Commission on the Arts’ Kids Arts program, is, once again, looking for musicians to play in its circus band. The band is open to all adult and teenage musicians willing to make the commitment to rehearsals and the performance on Friday, July 31, at 5:00 pm. Band director is well-known local musician, Dirck Westervelt. Percussion, horns, woodwinds, strings (electric or acoustic) are all needed. There will be an organizational meeting on Thursday, June 25 from 6-9 pm at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown, but it is not necessary to attend this meeting in order to participate. Rehearsals will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-9 pm, beginning July 7. Although attendance at all rehearsals is not compulsory, band members are expected to have consistent attendance and must be available for the dress rehearsal on July 30 and the performance at Spencer School in Middletown on July 31. Professional or highly experienced musicians are often able to “sit in” by coming to a few rehearsals before the show. This is the 2st annual Children’s Circus, a 5-week program for Middletown youngsters ages 8 to 14. Over 200 young people learn such skills as juggling, stilt-walking, clowning, unicycling, acrobatics, and dance and present the results in a stupendous outdoor show, accompanied by live music by the circus band. The show annually attracts an audience of about 1,000. To sign up for the circus band, please call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143 or contact Dirck Westervelt at (203) 577-7548 or dirckwestervelt@earthlink.net.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE HOLDS ARTS EXPLORERS EVENT

2009-05-14T11:08:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse invites the public to celebrate the accomplishments in visual arts, writing, and theater of 17 talented Arts Explorers on Thursday, May 21 from 7-9 pm. Visual arts students in this innovative program will exhibit hand-dyed silk scarves, writing students will offer readings of their poetry, and theater students will give a short performance.

Oddfellows, in partnership with the Middletown Youth Services Bureau, received one of five statewide pilot grants from the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism to offer creative, nonschool arts experiences to underserved youth. Arts Explorers, with additional support from The Hartford Courant Foundation, was designed to help middle-school students, particularly low-income and minority youth, experience the arts under the mentorship of a professional artist. Students chose to specialize in the visual, literary or performing arts and then spent the past 9 months working under the guidance of Oddfellows’ artists William A. Foster, III, Renee Soares, and Enza Giannone to develop their skills. This event on May 21 is the culmination of their program, and students will have their colorful scarves and a book of collected writings for sale.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street in Middletown. For more information about the Arts Explorers program and this event, please call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

2009-05-12T09:59:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is offering Wacky Wednesdays, a series of interactive monthly workshops for pre-schoolers, ages 2-6. The next workshop is on April 22 from 10-11 a.m. and features stories with crafts, music, and other activities. Taught by Kim West, these workshops engage children and their caregivers in creative structured group play designed to stimulate the imagination and nurture listening and motor skills.

Wacky Wednesdays are presented in partnership with KidCity Children’s Museum and made possible by a grant from the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism. The workshops are held at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Cost is $10 per family. Members of KidCity receive a $5 discount.

Oddfellows Playhouse is more than a performing arts program. We aim to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live.

For more information or to reserve a spot in a Wacky Wednesdays workshop, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT “HANSEL AND GRETEL AND THE BIG WOODS”

2009-05-05T12:55:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Second Stage Players present a mini-production of “Hansel and Gretel and the Big Woods.” Under the direction of Jane Harris, a cast of 13 young actors, ages 9-11, takes on this irreverent twist on the classic tale by the Brothers Grimm.

"Once upon a time, deep in the woods, there lived a young boy called Hansel and a young girl called Gretel." From this familiar beginning, playwright Jeannette Jaquish turns the fairy tale upside down. Oddfellows’ talented actors introduce us to two siblings who annoy everyone around them, a witch with fleas, a stepmother with migraines, a fairy dog mother and a fairy frog mother, and 7 dwarfs named Bossy, Smelly, Twitchy, Clumsy, Narcolepty, Whiny, and Sneezy. But everyone stills lives happily ever after.

This fun-filled production is appropriate for all ages and runs approximately 30 minutes. Shows are Friday, May 22 at 7 pm and Saturday, May 23 at 11 am at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, call (860) 347-6143.

Major support for Oddfellows’ 2008-2009 season comes from the State Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, Middletown Commission on the Arts, The Stare Fund, Pratt and Whitney—Middletown and The J. Walton Bissell Foundation.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE AMERICAN CLOCK

2009-04-09T10:50:00.002-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company presents a mainstage production of The American Clock by Arthur Miller from April 30-May 9. Jill Giles directs a cast of 18 talented teens, in this powerful story of the Great Depression, based in part on Studs Terkel’s book, Hard Times.

In a play he dubs “a vaudeville,” Arthur Miller has captured the era’s tension between the painful hardship suffered by so many individuals and the exhilarating optimism of the songs and radio shows of the popular culture. Between 1929 and 1945, the stock market crashes, homes are foreclosed upon, unemployment soars, and people stand in bread lines— and the radio plays “Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries.” Oddfellows’ Teen Repertory Company recreates a timely and timeless story that helps us better understand and cope with today’s events.

Major support for Oddfellows’ 2008-2009 season comes from the State Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, Middletown Commission on the Arts, The Stare Fund, Pratt and Whitney—Middletown and The J. Walton Bissell Foundation. The American Clock previews at Oddfellows Playhouse at 128 Washington Street in Middletown on Thursday, April 30 at 7 pm, with a “can-can” performance (pay-what-you-can and bring a can for the Amazing Grace food pantry). Additional performances are on May 1, 2, 8, and 9 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $12 adults and $8 students and seniors. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (860) 347-6143.

SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY, ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE

2009-04-09T10:47:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is now scheduling placement auditions for its Summer Shakespeare Academy, an intensive 4-week program that runs from June 29-July 25. The Shakespeare Academy is open to anyone ages 14 to 18 who has completed 9th grade. Teens will work with Playhouse producing artistic director Jeffery Allen and other professional artists and present mainstage performances of William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy, Love’s Labour’s Lost, on July 23-25. Auditions are by appointment at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Come prepared to perform a short Shakespeare monologue from 12-20 lines, which must be memorized. For information or to schedule an audition, call (860) 347-6143 or email info@oddfellows.org.

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

2009-04-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS
Oddfellows Playhouse is offering Wacky Wednesdays, a series of interactive monthly workshops for pre-schoolers, ages 2-6. The next workshop is on April 22 from 10-11 a.m. and features stories with crafts, music, and other activities. Taught by Kim West, these workshops engage children and their caregivers in creative structured group play designed to stimulate the imagination and nurture listening and motor skills.

Wacky Wednesdays are presented in partnership with KidCity Children’s Museum and made possible by a grant from the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism. The workshops are held at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Cost is $10 per family. Members of KidCity receive a $5 discount.

Oddfellows Playhouse is more than a performing arts program. We aim to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live.

For more information or to reserve a spot in a Wacky Wednesdays workshop, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE NAMES NEW CHILDREN’S CIRCUS DIRECTOR

2009-03-26T13:38:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse proudly announces that Skyler Sullivan is the new director of the Children’s Circus of Middletown. Sullivan is an extraordinary circus artist as well as an actor, singer, dancer, and mime. He has been a teaching artist with Circus Minimus in New York since 2001 and has an ongoing role as a juggling chicken on the well-known public television show, “Sesame Street.” He also appears as Arthur on “The Electric Company,” a Sesame Workshop on public television. Sullivan taught clowning, juggling, trapeze, tight wire, and acrobatics at the San Francisco School of Circus Arts. He takes over from Jake Weinstein, who led the Children’s Circus for the past 2 summers and has moved to Tennessee to pursue circus activities there.

Skyler Sullivan received his BFA in acting and musical theatre from Emerson College and brings a wealth of skills to the Children’s Circus. He has extensive training in mime, wire walking, stilting, juggling, partner acrobatics, clowning, stage combat, and Commedia dell’Arte. He is an accomplished dancer and plays the guitar, piano, and harmonica. He has performed with the American Mime Theatre in New York, the San Francisco Mime Troupe in California, and at the New York City Clown Fest as well as serving as the ring master for Circus Minimus. He appears frequently on stage and television and in films. Sullivan is sure to make the 2009 Children’s Circus one to remember.

The Children’s Circus of Middletown, part of the Middletown Commission on the Arts’ Kids’ Arts activities, was begun in 1988 by former Oddfellows’ artistic director Dic Wheeler. Each summer, 175 young people, ages 8 to 14, learn stilting, juggling, clowning, acrobatics, dance, unicycling, visual art, and other fantastic circus skills in this 5-week, half-day program. A challenging full-day Advanced Circus Program for veteran circus participants, ages 12-15, helps them take their skills to the next level. The circus concludes with a spectacular outdoor performance that has become a summer tradition in this area. With music by a live circus band and an audience of over 1,000, nearly 200 youngsters dazzle the crowd with circus acts and a level of skill that belie the youthfulness of the performers.

This year’s circus runs from June 29-July 31, with the gala circus show on July 31. Registration for Middletown youngsters began March 1; registration for out-of-town young people opens April 1. For more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS INHERIT THE WIND

2009-03-10T11:45:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company presents a mainstage production of Inherit the Wind, directed by Jeffery Allen and performed by a talented cast of 20 teens from throughout central Connecticut, from March 26-April 4. This fictionalized account of the 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial employs the debate between teaching evolution vs. creationism in the public schools as the background for a drama intended to criticize the anti-Communist hysteria and the threats to America’s intellectual freedom in the 1950s.

John T. Scopes’s conviction for teaching Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution to a high school science class caused a media sensation in 1925. Evolutionism was contrary to Tennessee state law, which prohibited the teaching of anything but creationism. Inherit the Wind, written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee, opened on Broadway in 1955 and incorporated the trial’s historical events and larger-than-life figures of William Jennings Bryant and Clarence Darrow in this fictionalized critique of the McCarthy era.

As relevant today as when it was first performed, Inherit the Wind warns against repeating the wrongs of the past and raises questions with grace, humanity, and power about how we still use faith and science as both shield and sword.Major support for Oddfellows’ 2008-2009 season comes from the State Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, Middletown Commission on the Arts, The Stare Fund, and The J. Walton Bissell Foundation.

A “can-can” preview of Inherit the Wind will be performed on March 26 at 7 pm. All tickets are “pay-what-you-can,” and audience members are asked to bring a nonperishable food item for the Amazing Grace food pantry. Additional performances are on March 27 and 28 April 3 and 4 at 7:30 pm. All performances are at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, in Middletown, CT. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, please call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

2009-02-03T12:51:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is offering Wacky Wednesdays, a series of interactive monthly workshops for pre-schoolers, ages 2-6. The next workshop is on February 18 from 10-11 a.m. and features stories with crafts, music, and other activities. Taught by Kim West, these workshops engage children and their caregivers in creative structured group play designed to stimulate the imagination and nurture listening and motor skills.

Wacky Wednesdays are presented in partnership with KidCity Children’s Museum and made possible by a grant from the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism. The workshops are held at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Cost is $10 per family. Members of KidCity receive a $5 discount.

Oddfellows Playhouse is more than a performing arts program. We aim to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live.

For more information or to reserve a spot in a Wacky Wednesdays workshop, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

2009-01-06T11:41:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is offering Wacky Wednesdays, a series of interactive monthly workshops for pre-schoolers, ages 2-6. The next workshop is on January 21 from 10-11 a.m. and features stories with crafts, music, and other activities. Taught by Kim West, these workshops engage children and their caregivers in creative structured group play designed to stimulate the imagination and nurture listening and motor skills.

Wacky Wednesdays are presented in partnership with KidCity Children’s Museum and made possible by a grant from the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism. The workshops are held at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Cost is $10 per family. Members of KidCity receive a $5 discount.

Oddfellows Playhouse is more than a performing arts program. We aim to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live.

For more information or to reserve a spot in a Wacky Wednesdays workshop, call (860) 347-6143

REGISTER NOW FOR ODDFELLOWS WINTER ACTING CLASSES

2008-12-11T10:49:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is registering now for winter performing arts classes, and there are still a few spaces available in Complete Actor classes for ages 6-14. Winter classes begin the week of January 5 and run for 8 weeks, ending with a Share Day on February 28.

“The Complete Actor” is the entry class at the first three age levels in Oddfellows’ program and presents a curriculum of age-appropriate basic acting, voice, and movement training at each level. This assures that every young performer at Oddfellows is being trained in the same set of fundamental skills. Complete Actor One is for ages 6-8; Complete Actor Two for ages 9-11; and Complete Actor Three for ages 12-14. Complete Actor classes meet one day per week and are prerequisite to taking more advanced classes or being in a play.

Preaudition workshops for the Teen Repertory Company (ages 14-18) are January 12-15, and auditions for spring mainstage productions are January 20, 21 or 22.

Tuition for Complete Actor classes ranges from $110 to $120 for 8 sessions. Preaudition workshops are free but tuition for participating in a mainstage productions is $200. Oddfellows’ generous financial aid policy offers assistance with tuition to all who qualify.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street, Middletown. More than just a performing arts program, Oddfellows aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live. So whether you’re 6 or 18, there’s an open door for you at the Playhouse. For more information or to reserve a spot in a winter class, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /THE THREEPENNY OPERA

2008-11-20T11:22:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company presents a mainstage production of /The Threepenny Opera/, Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill’s ground-breaking work of musical theater on December 4-20. Directed by Missy Burmeister, a cast of 20 talented teens from throughout central Connecticut tells the legendary tale of the notorious criminal and gentleman, Mack the Knife. A pit band under the direction of Joseph Getter recreates Weill’s innovative music and memorable songs.

A milestone of 20th-century musical theater, /The Threepenny Opera/ was first presented in Berlin in 1928 and transformed old-fashioned operetta forms with a sharp political perspective and the sound of Berlin cabarets. Oddfellows Teen Repertory Company skillfully interprets Bertolt Brecht’s biting text and Kurt Weill’s acid harmonies in this opera “by and for beggars” that captures the contradictions of man’s existence—love, treachery, betrayal, redemption and improbable forgiveness.

A “can-can” preview of /The Threepenny Opera/ will be performed on December 4 at 7 pm. All tickets are “pay-what-you-can,” and audience members are asked to bring a canned or nonperishable food item for the Amazing Grace food pantry. Additional performances are on December 5 & 6, 12 & 13, and 19 & 20 at 7:30 pm. All performances are at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, in Middletown, CT. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, please call (860) 347-6143.

Major support for Oddfellows’ 2008-2009 season comes from the State Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, Middletown Commission on the Arts, The Stare Fund, The J. Walton Bissell Foundation, and the Middletown Foundation for the Arts.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE NAMES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

2008-11-06T10:25:00.001-05:00

After an extensive search, Oddfellows Playhouse Board of Directors has named Matthew J. Pugliese as the organization’s new Managing Director. Pugliese succeeds Dominick Grant, who is leaving to pursue long-standing interests in environmental preservation, clean energy, and sustainable business practices.

“I am particularly excited that Matt Pugliese--a seasoned Oddfellows teaching artist, who has worked extensively with the Teen Rep and Neighborhood Troupes -- will take up the torch and work with the board, staff, parents, students and many community partners to build and grow an even stronger Oddfellows,” said Grant. “Matt’s commitment to Oddfellows’ mission and his leadership skills makes him a great fit for this position.”

A Middletown native, Pugliese has a long history of working with Oddfellows, where he has been a director, a teaching artist, and a leader of one of Oddfellows’ Neighborhood Troupes, a free weekly program serving children from low-income housing areas. He directed last season’s Teen Repertory Company mainstage production of /The Grapes of Wrath/ and previously directed /Nuevo California /and /The Dining Room/. Pugliese led the Chatham Court Tiny Troupe (ages 5-7) for two years and worked closed with the Maplewood Terrace and Chatham Court Senior Troupes on the mainstage production of /Spoon River Anthology/. Pugliese has also served as the Lead Teaching Artist for Oddfellows’ satellite programs in the schools and as an instructor for the Summer Shakespeare Academy.

For the past three years, Pugliese has served as Production Manager and Director of Educational Programming at Ivoryton Playhouse. During this time, the Ivoryton Playhouse received 6 nominations and 2 awards from the Connecticut Critics Circle and brought challenging adaptations of Shakespeare's /Romeo & Juliet/ and /Julius Caesar/ to the stage for area high schools. In addition to managing production budgets and staff, Pugliese successfully implemented a number of fundraising initiatives, including the first annual appeal drive for Ivoryton.

An alum of Xavier High School, Pugliese graduated magna cum laude with a BA in Theatre Studies from UCONN and completed an artistic internship at Hartford Stage Company. He is a founding member of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Arts and Creative Industry Council. He will complete a graduate certificate in Non-Profit Management through UCONN's Master's in Public Administration program in the spring.

Pugliese will work with Oddfellows’ present Managing Director Dominick Grant during November and December to insure a smooth transition and will assume full responsibility for the position on January 1, 2009.

For more information about Oddfellows Playhouse and its programs, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS BENEFIT PERFORMANCES OF /HAMLET/

2008-09-25T09:30:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse presents two performances of /Hamlet/, William Shakespeare’s most famous play, on October 3 & 4 at 7 pm. This timeless tragedy of revenge and madness features Oddfellows’ Producing Artistic Director Jeffery Allen in the title role and an all-star adult cast including Carolyn Kirsch, Jackie Coleman, Robert Resnikoff, David McCamish, Richard Kamins, Tony Palmieri, John Hall, and a special appearance by Middletown’s Mayor Sebastian Giuliano.

These performances are a benefit for Oddfellows Playhouse. Oddfellows was founded in 1975 as a community-based, multicultural theater program designed to include children from all backgrounds. Today it is Connecticut's largest and most active year-round youth theater, an independent, not-for-profit organization that annually serves nearly 2,000 young people, ages 2-20, with an innovative program designed for positive youth development. More than classes and productions, Oddfellows is concerned with the education and character development of young people, nurturing their skills in the performing arts and challenging them to grow as individuals in a supportive, noncompetitive environment. The young people are then able to use these skills to facilitate success in other aspects of their lives.

All performances of /Hamlet/ will be at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. The suggested donation is $15. For reservations or more information call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.//

Composers and Improvisers Festival September 27th

2008-08-13T10:23:00.002-05:00

Sixth Annual Composers and Improvisers Festival.
September 27th , Odd Fellows Play House 128 Washington St. Middletown Ct.
Tel No. 860 347 5134

Contact Joe Fonda 860 841 6141
Photos available by request via return email

7.00 pm - Ilse Pfeifer –Dancer, Singer, Performance Artist.
George Schuller – Composer –Percussionist.

8.00 pm – Napoleon Maddox – Composer, Beat Boxer, Rapper.
Claire Daly – Composer –Saxophonist

9.00 pm – Mark Helias – Composer, Bassist

10.00 pm- Conference Call, With Michael Jefry Stevens, Composer Pianist, George Schuler, Composer, Percussionist, Gerhard Ullmann , Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, Joe Fonda Bass

Ilse Pfeifer has worked and danced with Zero Moving Dance Company for five years. She later became a performing artist and Choreographer. Isle danced in choreographer Kevin O Days performance of Storage Space, Helmut Rothschild’s Frogs and Karen Baronets Salon Evenings. She is currently teaching Fitzmaurice Voice work and movement at the Actors Movement Studio in New York City.

George Schuler Composer, Percussionist has released several recordings as a leader including the latest entitled Hell-bent on plays cape records, He has performed and recorded with Joe Lozano, Ran Blake, Tom Varner, Günter Schuler, Lee Knits, George Adams. George has received several composition awards including a Massachusetts Artist Foundation Fellowship for music composition.

Napoleon Maddox, Beat Boxer, Rapper and singer is well known as the leader of the Hip Hop group Is What. He has collaborated with many well known jazz artists such as Oliver Lake, Humid Drake, Roy Nathan son, Archie Sheep, Comfortable in both jazz and hip hop idioms, Napoleon is truly one of the connectors of jazz and hip hop music. He never fails to captivate an audience with his unique vocal ability.

Claire Daly, composer, Saxophonist, has performed with Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Joe Williams, and Rosemary Clooney. Her mission in life has been to be an in demand baritone saxophonist. Five-time winner of the Down Beat Critics Poll “Talent Deserving Wider Recognition” Claire travels worldwide performing as a bandleader and a side person.

Mark Helias, Composer, Bassist, and Studied with Homer Munch at Rutgers University and Yale school of Music. Mark embarked on an international performance career with the Anthony Braxton quartet in 1977. Since then Mark has enjoyed long musical associations with Ed Blackwell, Dewey Redman, Ray Anderson. Don Cherry. A prolific composer, he has composed music for two feature films as well as chamber pieces and works for large ensemble and big band.

Conference Call is a new quartet project featuring the exciting German woodwind virtuoso Gerhard Ullmann, the established piano/bass collaboration of Michael Stevens and Joe Fonda and the highly individual percussion styling of drummer George Schuler.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

2008-07-21T13:14:00.001-05:00

After 20 years as an Oddfellows kid, staff member, and leader, Dominick Grant is leaving Oddfellows Playhouse, and the Playhouse Board of Directors is beginning a search for a new Managing Director. Grant has been Managing Director for the past 3 years and, together with Artistic Director Jeffery Allen, has been providing dynamic leadership for the organization. He is responsible for Oddfellows’ financial and administrative operations, was one of the founding members of Creative Juice, the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce’s new council for people in the arts and creative industries, and has been active in expanding Oddfellows’ role in the community.

A Playhouse alum who began his association with Oddfellows as a child and later as a member of the Teen Repertory Company, Grant has a long history of advocating for children, education, and social justice. This past season he led the Chatham Court Junior Troupe, one of Oddfellows Neighborhood Troupes, a program of free, after-school arts classes for at-risk youth. Grant served as the Playhouse’s Associate Managing Director and Program Manager before becoming Managing Director and has produced all of the Playhouse’s mainstage productions for the past 5 seasons. He is also an accomplished musician and served as Musical Director for Oddfellows’ 30^th Birthday revival of /Middletown Fantasia/ in 2005.

Grant is leaving his position at the Playhouse to pursue graduate studies but will remain in his capacity as Managing Director until the end of the calendar year. Jeffery Allen, Oddfellows’ Artistic Director, has been appointed Producing Artistic Director by the Board of Directors and will assume new responsibilities for producing Oddfellows’ plays. “I’ve been honored to serve such a great organization that touches the lives of so many different children of all ages in Middletown and beyond,” said Grant. “I’m confident that Oddfellows will continue to grow and thrive under a new leadership team.”

Oddfellows was founded in 1975 as a community-based, multicultural theater program designed to include children from all backgrounds. Today it is Connecticut’s oldest and largest youth theater, annually serving over 2,000 young people, ages 2-20. Oddfellows hopes to hire a new Managing Director by mid-October in order to have a transition period before Grant leaves. For more information, visit www.oddfellows.org.

THE CHILDREN’S CIRCUS OF MIDDLETOWN PRESENTS “CIRCUS OUT OF THIS WORLD”

2008-07-21T13:13:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse and the Middletown Commission on the Arts present “Circus Out of This World,” the spectacular final performance of the 20th annual Children’s Circus of Middletown. This one-time-only show will be presented on Friday, August 1 at 5 pm at Spencer Elementary School.

“Circus Out of This World,” under the direction of Jake Weinstein, tells the tale of a birthday party gone awry, a stolen birthday cake, and a quest to round up all the missing pieces. The show features over 200 young stilters, jugglers, clowns, unicyclists, dancers, and acrobats. Live music is performed by a 15-piece Circus Band, led by well-known local musician Dirck Westervelt.

The Children’s Circus of Middletown is a 5-week half-day program of training in circus skills for young people ages 8 to 14. This is the eighth year of a challenging full-day Advanced Circus Program for 40 veteran circus participants, ages 12-15, to help them take their skills to the next level. The Children’s Circus is part of the City of Middletown’s Kids Arts ‘08, with additional funding from the Middlesex United Way.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and come and enjoy a gala spectacle that has become a summer tradition. “Circus Out of This World” begins at 5 pm. at Spencer Elementary School, 207 Westfield Street in Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. Rain date for the performance is Saturday, August 2 at 12 noon.

For more information, call (860) 250-5894 or 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY PRESENTS /MEASURE FOR MEASURE /AND /THE TAMING OF THE SHREW/

2008-07-21T13:12:00.000-05:00

**Oddfellows Playhouse Summer Shakespeare Academy presents mainstage performances of the intriguing problem play, /Measure for Measure/, and the romantic comedy, /The Taming of the Shrew/, two of William Shakespeare’s best –loved works, on July 23-26. These productions are the culmination of an intensive 4-week Shakespeare-in-Performance program for high school students and feature 18 talented teenagers from throughout central Connecticut.

/The Taming of the Shrew/, directed by Mariah Sage, and /Measure for Measure/, directed by Jeffery Allen, contrast the brilliance of one of the Bard’s earliest comedies with that of his last. Both deal with issues of power and male dominance in a comic fashion, but with radically different approaches. /The Taming of the Shrew/ presents the volatile courtship and married life of Kate and Petruchio, a play which lampoons chauvinistic behavior while simultaneously reaffirming its social validity. /Measure for Measure/, on the other hand, is a studied satire on the corruption of power, as the novitiate Isabella is faced with an unbearable choice to save her brother’s life.

Oddfellows’ Summer Shakespeare Academy, led by Jeffery Allen, combines training and production for students ages 14-18. Meeting daily from June 30-July 25, the challenging and fun program offers training in acting and movement, stage combat, text analysis, voice, diction, improvisation, and understanding Shakespeare’s historical and cultural background. The last three weeks of the program also include individual coaching and intensive rehearsals.

All performances will be at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. /Measure for Measure /will be performed on July 23 and 25at 7:30 pm; /The Taming of the Shrew/ will be on July 24 and 26 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Group rates available. For reservations or more information call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.//

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND

2008-06-12T11:48:00.002-05:00

The Children’s Circus of Middletown, run by Oddfellows Playhouse as part of the Middletown Commission on the Arts’ Kids Arts program, is, once again, looking for musicians to play in its circus band. The band is open to all adult and teenage musicians willing to make the commitment to rehearsals and the performance on Friday, August 1, at 5:00 pm. Band director is well-known local musician, Dirck Westervelt.

Percussion, horns, woodwinds, strings (electric or acoustic) are all needed. There will be an organizational meeting on Tuesday, June 24 from 6-9 pm at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Rehearsals will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-9 pm throughout the month of July. Although attendance at all rehearsals is not compulsory, band members are expected to have consistent attendance and must be available for the dress rehearsal on July 31 and the performance at Spencer School in Middletown on August 1. Professional or highly experienced musicians are often able to “sit in” by coming to a few rehearsals before the show.

This is the 20th annual Children’s Circus, a 5-week program for Middletown youngsters ages 8 to 14. Over 200 young people learn such skills as juggling, stilt-walking, clowning, unicycling, acrobatics, and dance and present the results in a stupendous outdoor show, accompanied by live music by the circus band. The show annually attracts an audience of about 1,000.

To sign up for the circus band, please call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS TRAVELING CIRCUS PERFORMS THE CHEST OF TWO WORLDS

2008-05-15T09:24:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Traveling Circus presents its new show, /The Chest of Two Worlds/, on May 30 at 7 pm and May 31 at 2 and 7 pm. In this story, a magic chest invites two best friends into an enchanted world where they go on a life-changing journey. This fast-paced, 45-minute show is appropriate for all ages and features lots of juggling, unicycling, clowning, stilting, and acrobatics.

Oddfellows Traveling Circus is under the direction of Amy Richmond-Prchal and is made up of veterans of The Children’s Circus of Middletown. This is the first season for this new 12-member ensemble of 12-15 year olds. These young performers exhibit a high level of circus skills that will astonish and delight audience members.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street in Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. For reservations or more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT

2008-05-13T08:57:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Second Stage Players present a mini-production of “A Thousand Cranes,” the inspiring account of a young girl’s courage in the face of personal tragedy. Under the direction of Jane Harris, a cast of 17 talented young actors, ages 9-11, from throughout central Connecticut tells the story of Sadako and how the paper crane became an international symbol of peace.

Sadako was just 2 years when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, and at age 11, she was diagnosed with leukemia, known as the “atom bomb disease.” An ancient Japanese legend says that the gods grant a wish to anyone who can fold 1,000 paper cranes. Sadako’s legacy is that her paper cranes still remind young people to strive for their dreams. During rehearsals for this play, the cast learned to fold the origami paper cranes, and their goal is to fold 1,000 cranes in honor of Sadako and all other brave children who face life-threatening illnesses.

This production is appropriate for all ages. The show runs Friday, May 23 at 7 pm and Saturday, May 24 at 11 am at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT

2008-05-13T08:57:00.000-05:00

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE RECEIVES $18,000 ARTS GRANT

2008-05-13T08:56:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse has received one of five statewide pilot grants from the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism to offer creative, nonschool arts experiences to underserved youth. With this $18,000 grant, Oddfellows, in partnership with the Middletown Youth Services Bureau, will launch an innovative, 9-month Arts Explorers program that will introduce 24 middle-school students to the visual, literary and performing arts and help them develop a public presentation or performance. The new program will also facilitate their transition from middle school to high school.

Arts Explorers is designed to help middle school students, particularly low-income and minority youth, experience the arts under the mentorship of a professional artist. Middletown Youth Services will spearhead the effort to recruit Middletown students, ages 12-14, in September 2008. From October to December, the young people will try various art forms with Oddfellows artists William A. Foster III, Renee Soares, and Jaime Guite. Then, in January, students will focus intensively on one of the arts to prepare for a public presentation in May. Visual arts will include painting, sculpture, and a variety of mixed media; literary could be a poetry slam, playwriting, a journal or magazine; performing projects will range from dance to music to a play.

Arts Explorers will take place at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, in Middletown, but students will also take field trips to museum exhibitions, galleries, and theater performances. Middletown Youth Services “Dragons in Action” high school students will serve as teaching assistants for the program. “Through the combined leadership of Oddfellows and the Youth Services Bureau, we are very pleased to be able to bring this innovative arts initiative to the Middletown community,” said Dominick Grant, the Playhouse’s Managing Director.

Oddfellows received this state grant from the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism through a competitive process. The Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism brings together tourism, film, history, and the arts to preserve and promote Connecticut’s cultural and tourism assets in order to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of the state. Funds for the five pilot grants to benefit underserved youth were made available by Governor M. Jodi Rell and the state legislature.

For more information about the Arts Explorers program, please call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE 2008 SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY

2008-05-13T08:53:00.002-05:00

There are still a few places left in Oddfellows Playhouse Summer Shakespeare Academy, an intensive 4-week Shakespeare-in-Performance program for high school students. The program runs from June 30-July 26, 2008 and culminates in fully staged mainstage performances of /The Taming of the Shrew/ and /Measure for Measure/. Directed by Playhouse artistic director Jeffery Allen, the Summer Shakespeare Academy offers a challenging, fun experience for teenagers throughout central Connecticut.

Oddfellows Playhouse is Connecticut’s oldest and largest youth theater with a 33-year history of artistic excellence. The Summer Shakespeare Academy meets weekdays, 9 am to 3:30 pm, starting Monday, June 30 and combines rigorous actor training directly connected to the performance of full-length Shakespeare plays. The first week will focus on understanding the historical and cultural background of Shakespeare’s world, text analysis, and casting of the plays. Each participant will be cast in a significant role in either /The Taming of the Shrew/ or /Measure for Measure/ and a supporting role in the other production. Students who wish to participate but do not want the responsibility of a major role will be cast in both plays in a supporting role. Weeks 2 and 3 will focus on voice and movement, stage combat, and character work in the mornings and rehearsals in the afternoons. Week 4 will start with technical and dress rehearsals, followed by 4 performances on July 23-26..

The Academy is open to anyone ages 14 to 18 who has completed 9^th grade. Enrollment is by application and audition. Auditions are by appointment. To audition, students should prepare and memorize a short Shakespeare monologue from 12-20 lines.

The Summer Shakespeare Academy will take place at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Enrollment is limited to 25. Tuition is $650 for the entire program; limited financial aid is available

For more information or to receive an application form and schedule an audition, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143 or email jeffery@oddfellows.org.

SALTAMONTES PUPPET THEATER PERFORMS AT ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE

2008-05-13T08:51:00.000-05:00

*Saltamontes Puppet Theater *is hopping across the ocean to Middletown, Connecticut with its award-winning show, */Babui/*. See the show on *Sunday, May 4 at 3 p.m. at* *Oddfellows Playhouse. *Saltamontes invites children and adults of all ages to enjoy this inventive, mostly nonverbal show.

Actors, puppets, movement, and music tell this story about love, care and cooperation. The puppeteer/actors arrive a bit late carrying a big box of puppets. The box is opened, but it is practically empty except for a book, an egg and old newspaper. The puppeteers are astonished and worried. This is the wrong box, but THE SHOW MUST GO ON! Using the book as a guide, the two actors work together to create a new show on the spot. The newspaper is turned into puppets and props, and the egg becomes the focus of each puppet. What could be in that egg and how to hatch it?

Saltamontes Puppet Theater was founded in 1994 in Bogotá (Colombia). In July 1998, the Theater moved to Connecticut and worked there until mid-2004. Since August 2004, Saltamontes Puppet Theater finds its home in Cham, Bavaria, Germany. /Babui/ premiered in April 2006 and has continued to delight audiences since then. This is /Babui/'s first tour of the United States.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street (Route 66) in Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children, but no one is turned away for financial reasons. For more information, contact Amy Weinstein at (860) 645-9532 or email weinstein@puppets-on-demand.de.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE LARAMIE PROJECT

2008-05-13T08:50:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company presents a mainstage production of /The Laramie Project/ by Moises Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Company from May 1-10. Missy Waryas directs a cast of 19 talented teens from across central Connecticut in this powerful story of brutal murder and great revelations—about our nation, our ideas, and ourselves.

On October 7, 1998, Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old, openly gay, University of Wyoming student was kidnapped, driven to a remote area, tied to a fence, brutally beaten, and left to die. For five days, he fought to hold onto life, but on October 12, just 50 days short of his 22nd birthday, Matthew Shepard died. Four weeks later, Moises Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Project traveled to Laramie. The company subsequently visited the town six times and interviewed hundreds of people. /The Laramie Project/ presents the culmination of these interviews, and at its core, the play spreads a message of peace and illustrates how a town deals with and recovers from tragedy.

Support for Oddfellows Playhouse 2007-08 season comes from the CT State Department of Education, the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, the J. Walton Bissell Foundation, The Stare Fund, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, and the Middletown Foundation for the Arts.

/The Laramie Project/ previews at Oddfellows Playhouse at 128 Washington Street in Middletown on Thursday, May 1 at 7 pm, with a “can-can” performance (pay-what-you-can and bring a can for the Amazing Grace food pantry). Additional performances are on May 2, 3, 9, and 10 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 adults and $7 students and seniors. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE LARAMIE PROJECT

2008-05-13T08:50:00.000-05:00

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /ANON(YMOUS)/

2008-05-13T08:46:00.001-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company presents a mainstage production of /Anon(ymous)/, Naomi Iizuka’s modern retelling of Homer’s /Odyssey/, from April 10-19. Artistic Director Jeffery Allen directs a cast of 18 talented teens from across central Connecticut in this extraordinary new work that traces the journey of a nameless hero seeking to return home.

Anon, a teen immigrant with no name, washes up on the shores of the United States and begins a quest that leads him through the sometimes harsh landscape that is modern-day America. Along the way he survives encounters with greedy politicians, ghosts, a cannibalistic Cyclops, and other dangers of mythological proportions. Guided by a goddess, Anon is trying to get back to the mother he lost. She is “home,” and she turns out to be much closer than our hero believes.

/Anon(ymous)/ was first performed in April 2006 by The Children’s Theatre Company of Minneapolis and continues Oddfellows’ dedication to bringing the best of modern theater to Middletown. This show is most suitable for those ages 8 and up.

Support for Oddfellows Playhouse 2007-08 season comes from the CT State Department of Education, the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, the J. Walton Bissell Foundation, The Stare Fund, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, and the Middletown Foundation for the Arts.

/Anon(ymous)/ previews at Oddfellows Playhouse at 128 Washington Street in Middletown on Thursday, April 10 at 7 pm, with a “can-can” performance (pay-what-you-can and bring a can for the Amazing Grace food pantry). Additional performances are on April 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 adults and $7 students and seniors. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (860) 347-6143.

SPACES AVAILABLE IN ODDFELLOWS SPRING ACTING CLASSES

2008-03-13T09:15:00.001-05:00

Registration is open for Oddfellows Playhouse spring performing arts classes, and there are still spaces available in Complete Actor classes for ages 6-14. Spring classes begin April 1 and run for 8 weeks.

“The Complete Actor” is the entry class at the first three age levels in Oddfellows’ program and presents a curriculum of age-appropriate basic acting, voice, and movement training at each level. This assures that every young performer at Oddfellows is being trained in the same set of fundamental skills. Complete Actor classes meet one day per week and are prerequisite to taking more advanced classes or being in a play.

Complete Actor One, for ages 6-8, offers an introduction to theater through games, stories, skits, and creative exercises. Complete Actor Two develops the skills of young actors, ages 9-11, through games and exercises, improvisation, story dramatization, and scene work. Complete Actor Three prepares 12-14 year olds for mainstage performance through character, concentration, movement, voice and text work, physical theater, and improvisation.

Tuition for these classes ranges from $110 to $120 for 8 sessions. Oddfellows’ generous financial aid policy offers assistance with tuition to all who qualify.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street, Middletown. More than just a performing arts program, Oddfellows aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live. For more information or to reserve a spot in a spring class, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS JUNIOR REPERTORY COMPANY PRESENTS TREASURE ISLAND

2008-02-26T14:15:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Junior Repertory Company presents a mainstage production of Treasure Island, Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story of pirates and buried treasure on March 6-15. Kim West directs an ensemble cast of 17 actors from throughout central Connecticut, ages 12-14, in this story of the adventures of young Jim Hawkins and the wily Long John Silver.

Filled with murderous pirates, a treasure map, and exploits on the high seas, Treasure Island is one of literature’s best-known coming of age stories--the tale of a boy who leaves home, goes on a journey, and returns home with maturity and insight that transform his life. Told by Jim Hawkins years later as he reflects back on his life, this familiar story traces his adventure from the rural English village where he unwittingly finds the map to a legendary treasure. Accompanied by two local gentlemen who unknowingly hire a ship with a crew of pirates, Jim sails to the West Indies in search of buried riches. The cunning pirate Long John Silver schemes to get the treasure for himself but ultimately helps Jim take over the ship, outwit the other pirates, secure the gold, escape the island, and return home. Along the way, Jim learns about bravery, greed, friendship, independence, and the ambiguity of morality.

The imagery of Treasure Island decisively influenced public perception of pirates—one-legged seamen with parrots on their shoulders, the Black Spot which signaled doom for anyone who received it, a weathered map marked with an “X,” rum and sea chanteys, the black Jolly Roger flag with skull and crossbones, and buried gold on tropical islands. This adaptation by Eric Schmiedl was first presented at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival in 2005. Oddfellows’ talented Junior Repertory Company brings a host of compelling characters to life as they tell a terrific story.
Support for Oddfellows Playhouse 2007-08 season comes from the CT State Department of Education, the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, The Stare Fund, The Middletown Foundation for the Arts, and the Middletown Commission on the Arts.

Treasure Island previews at Oddfellows Playhouse at 128 Washington Street in Middletown on Thursday, March 6 at 7 pm, with a “can-can” performance (pay-what-you-can and bring a can for the Amazing Grace food pantry). Additional performances are on March 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 adults and $7 students and seniors. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /BLISS/

2008-02-05T14:07:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Maplewood Terrace/Chatham Court Senior Troupe presents /Bliss/, a social satire about four aspiring teen music artists and a mega music corporation. Originally created by participants in the Student Theatre Enrichment Program (STEP) at Cleveland Public Theatre, /Bliss/ comes to Connecticut with an all new cast of talented teens. Directed by Bobbye Knoll, /Bliss /will be presented at Oddfellows on February 15 and 16 at 7:30 pm.

/Bliss/ takes its viewers into the not-too-distant future, where the music industry is run by a single corporate entity known as Omni. When a surprise dip in music sales occurs, Omni’s top brass needs a mega-hit. In an American Idol-style audition, a new super group is formed—Diversity—whose first single soars to #1 on the charts even before it is written. In a play filled with music and dance, the teens deliver a message about staying true to yourself in the face of overnight success and media manipulation.

/Bliss/ is the fourth mainstage collaboration between teens in Oddfellows’ Neighborhood Troupes, a free after-school performing arts program for residents of low-income neighborhoods. The teenagers from Maplewood Terrace in Middletown and Chatham Court in Portland are primarily African American and Latino, ages 13-17. These young actors have invited four members of Oddfellows’ Teen Repertory Company to join them in presenting this artistically challenging and thought-provoking production. Director Bobbye Knoll has been impressed by the hard work of all the teens and is really proud of the efforts the cast has made to become a unified ensemble.

Special support for /Bliss/ comes from The Olga Sipolin Children’s Fund. Support for the Neighborhood Troupes in 2007-08 comes from Middlesex United Way, Middletown Youth Services Bureau, Liberty Bank Foundation, Middlesex County Community Foundation, Citizens Bank, The Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Fund, Elizabeth Carse Foundation, Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council, and the Middletown Commission on the Arts.

All performances of /Bliss /will be at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street (Rte 66), in Middletown. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. For reservations or more information, please call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS’ FUNDRAISER FEATURES FABULOUS AUCTION ITEMS

2008-01-22T11:29:00.000-05:00

Through the generosity of friends and area businesses, Oddfellows’ Carnaval party and fundraiser will feature dozens of fabulous auction items. Carnaval will be held on Saturday, February 2 from 5-8 pm at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Following a silent auction of over 50 fun and unusual items, Durham resident Brad Wilkinson, MD, will serve as guest live auctioneer.

Among the many exciting auction items are a Zulu Nyala African photo safari; Red Sox tickets; a night at New York’s Algonquin Hotel; an autographed UCONN Lady Huskies basketball; one week at a Florida time share; two nights at The Ocean Lodge in Boca Raton and The Christopher in Boston; dinner at Mistral in Boston and Luce, Amici, First and Last, and Osaka Steakhouse in Middletown; autographed books from Tom Brokaw, Jimmy Carter, and John McCain; artwork by David Schulz; gift certificate donated by Chiarappa Jewelers; tickets to Theaterworks, Hartford Stage, Mystic Aquarium, Six Flags, Mystic Seaport, Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, and the Mark Twain House; 3-month membership to WOW! Fitness in Cromwell; Alaskan and Inuit art prints; and lift tickets to Ski Sundown. More items are being added to the list daily.

Carnaval is a perfect opportunity for anyone interested in supporting the activities of the Playhouse to wear their brightest colors and finest feathers during the dreariest time of winter. The evening will include live reggae and Caribbean music by Buru Style, international hors d'oeuvres and wine. Throughout the evening, members of Oddfellows Traveling Circus will dazzle guests with juggling, stilting, and acrobatics.

Although invitations to “Carnaval” have been extended by mail, the public is invited. Tickets are $30 per person; sponsor tickets are $75; premium sponsor tickets are $150. Snow date for the event is Saturday, February 9. Anyone interested in attending “Carnaval” can call Oddfellows at (860) 347-6143 or for more information, go to www.oddfellows.org.

CITIZENS BANK SPONSORS ODDFELLOWS’ SALUTE TO MARTIN LUTHER KING *

2008-01-17T10:25:00.001-05:00

Three Middletown branches of Citizens Bank have combined to support Oddfellows Playhouse’s celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Citizens Bank offices on Main Street, South Main, and Washington Street are sponsoring the class of 9-11 year olds who have been rehearsing since November for a performance at Middletown’s Martin Luther King Day on January 21. Taught by Dayna Snell, a member of the performing ensemble, Nzinga’s Daughters, “Martin Luther King: A Celebration in Song and Prose” uses songs, poems, and speeches to send a message of hope and peace in modern Martin Luther King style.

“Citizens Bank is actively involved in the communities we serve, and we are proud to be associated with such a great event,” said Rich Barry, president of Citizens Bank, Connecticut. “The legacy of Dr. King continues to inspire, and we applaud the efforts of our friends at Oddfellows Playhouse in presenting such a special program.”

For more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE CELEBRATES CARNAVAL

2008-01-10T10:14:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is throwing the party of the season. Anyone who can't take a trip to Rio and is looking to escape the cold can celebrate “Carnaval” at Oddfellows on Saturday, February 2 from 5-8 pm.

The evening will include live reggae and Caribbean music, international hors d'oeuvres and wine, a silent auction, and a live auction with dozens of fun and unusual items. Throughout the evening, members of Oddfellows Traveling Circus will dazzle guests with juggling, stilting, and acrobatics. “Carnaval” is a perfect opportunity for anyone interested in supporting the activities of the Playhouse to wear their brightest colors and finest feathers during the dreariest time of winter.

Although invitations to “Carnaval” have been extended by mail, the public is invited. Tickets are $30 per person; sponsor tickets are $75; premium sponsor tickets are $150. Snow date is Saturday, February 9.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street in Middletown. More than a youth theater program, Oddfellows aims to make a difference in young people’s lives, using the performing arts as a vehicle. Anyone interested in receiving an invitation to “Carnaval” or more information about Oddfellows can call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS TRAVELING CIRCUS PREMIERES NEW SHOW

2008-01-03T14:04:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Traveling Circus premieres its new show, The Chest of Two Worlds, on January 11 and 12 at 7 pm.

In this story, a magic chest invites two best friends into an enchanted world where they go on a life-changing journey. This fast-paced, 45-minute show is appropriate for all ages and features lots of juggling, unicycling, clowning, stilting, and acrobatics.

Oddfellows Traveling Circus is under the direction of Amy Richmond-Prchal and is made up of veterans of The Children’s Circus of Middletown. This is the first season for this new 12-member ensemble of 12-15 year olds. These young performers exhibit a high level of circus skills that will astonish and delight audience members.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street in Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. For reservations or more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE ANNOUNCES WINTER CLASSES FOR LITTLE FELLOWS

2008-01-02T14:03:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is now registering for two winter performing arts classes for our youngest thespians. “Little Fellows” classes for preschoolers begin Saturday, January 12 and run for 8 weeks.

“Theater Toddlers,” taught by Jane Harris, gives little ones, ages 2-3, the chance to play theater games, read stories, and bring the characters in the stories to life using voice, movement, and music. Parents or caregivers participate in this class with the child. “Adventures in Acting,” taught by Kim West, lets youngsters ages 4-5 act out stories and fairy tales, explore character through theater games and skits, and learn simple theater vocabulary. “Theater Toddlers” meets Saturdays from 10-11 am. “Adventures in Acting” meets Saturdays from 11 am-12 noon. Tuition is $100 for each 8 week program.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street, Middletown. More than just a performing arts program, Oddfellows aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live. For more information or to reserve a spot in a Little Fellows class, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE THANKS LOCAL BUSINESSES

2007-12-17T14:02:00.000-05:00

Many local businesses and individuals have helped Oddfellows Playhouse brighten the holidays for over 40 families of its Neighborhood Troupes living in Maplewood Terrace and the North End of Middletown and Chatham Court in Portland. Oddfellows is especially grateful to Kohl’s Department Store in Rocky Hill, Ken’s Cards and Collectibles of Berlin, Gorilla Graphics and A New World Laser Tag in Middletown for their generous contributions of goods and services. The Wesleyan University Knitters made scarves and mittens. Jerry’s Pizza, Tri-Town Market and the Family Dollar in Portland, Dunkin’ Donuts, Berlin Batting Cages, Farmington Mini Golf and Ice Cream, Public Market, Broad Street Books, Laser Quest in Newington, Target Superstores in New Britain, and K-Mart of Cromwell also made contributions to help Oddfellows fill the families’ holiday baskets, which were distributed at holiday parties in each of the neighborhoods.

Oddfellows’ Neighborhood Troupes program provides free, after-school activities for students, ages 5-18, from subsidized housing areas. Students come to the Playhouse once a week for theater classes, visual arts, snacks, and field trips. The goal of the Troupes program is to use theater to help these young people grow up to be more successful adults and support their work in school. Troupes are about learning life skills: interacting with peers and adults in a positive way, building trust and creating safe spaces, forming individual and community identities. Each Troupe also presents a performance every year, whether it is a mainstage production by older Troupes members or Share Day performances by younger ones. Troupes are facilitated by an artist/leader and 2 teaching assistants, usually Wesleyan University students. This year there are seven Troupes consisting of about 75 youngsters. Holiday Gift Giving is an annual event, an opportunity for Troupes leaders and assistants to talk to the families of Troupe members and share the spirit of the season.

The Neighborhood Troupes program has received support for the 2007-2008 season from the Middlesex United Way, Middletown Youth Services Bureau, Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council, Middletown Commission on the Arts, Elizabeth Carse Foundation, and The Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Fund. Oddfellows Playhouse thanks all of these generous organizations for making a difference in the lives of these children.

For more information about Oddfellows’ Neighborhood Troupes program, call (860) 347-6143.

SPACES AVAILABLE IN ODDFELLOWS WINTER ACTING CLASSES

2007-12-11T14:01:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse is registering now for winter performing arts classes, and there are still a few spaces available in Complete Actor classes for ages 6-14 and in a new class of circus skills for 9-11 year olds. Winter classes begin the week of January 7 and run for 8 weeks, ending with a Share Day on March 1.

“The Complete Actor” is the entry class at the first three age levels in Oddfellows’ program and presents a curriculum of age-appropriate basic acting, voice, and movement training at each level. This assures that every young performer at Oddfellows is being trained in the same set of fundamental skills. Complete Actor One is for ages 6-8; Complete Actor Two for ages 9-11; and Complete Actor Three for ages 12-14. Complete Actor classes meet one day per week and are prerequisite to taking more advanced classes or being in a play.

“The Actor’s Circus” is a new class for 9-11 year old, teaching stilting, juggling, clowning, and miming. Students will get to try all of the skills and use them to create skits to perform for their families on Share Day.

Tuition for these classes ranges from $110 to $120 for 8 sessions. Oddfellows’ generous financial aid policy offers assistance with tuition to all who qualify.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street, Middletown. More than just a performing arts program, Oddfellows aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live. So whether you’re 6 or 20, there’s an open door for you at the Playhouse. For more information or to reserve a spot in a winter class, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE GRAPES OF WRATH

2007-12-05T13:57:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company presents John Steinbeck’s timeless epic, The Grapes of Wrath, on December 6-15. Directed by Matt Pugliese, a cast of 20 talented teens from throughout central Connecticut recreate this landmark of American literature in a stage adaptation by Frank Galati, with original music by Michael Smith and Joe Ricker.

One of the most widely read American novels, The Grapes of Wrath has been hailed as a powerful statement against social injustice and condemned as socialist propaganda. It tells the story of the Joad family, forced off their farm by the drought in Oklahoma during the Great Depression, and their journey from the Dust Bowl, together with thousands of other migrants, to find the American Dream in California. When they arrive, they discover the dream was an illusion, and they are forced to deal with inequity, violence, and hardship. The play is true to the 1939 novel and ends with a young woman’s quiet act of humanity. This play is recommended for mature audiences only.

A “can-can” preview of The Grapes of Wrath will be performed on December 6 at 7 pm. All tickets are “pay-what-you-can,” and audience members are asked to bring a canned or nonperishable food item for the Amazing Grace food pantry. Additional performances are on December 7 & 8 and 14 & 15 at 7:30 pm. All performances are at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, in Middletown, CT. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, please call (860) 347-6143.

Major support for Oddfellows’ 2007-2008 season comes from the State Department of Education, CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Middlesex United Way, Middletown Commission on the Arts, The Stare Fund, The J. Walton Bissell Foundation, and the Middletown Foundation for the Arts.

ODDFELLOWS’ CLASS SALUTES MARTIN LUTHER KING

2007-12-04T13:52:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse will explore the life of Martin Luther King, Jr., in a free class for young people, ages 9-11, beginning in November. Taught by Dayna Snell, this class will prepare a presentation of King’s ongoing impact on our culture and perform it at Middletown’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 21.

Dayna Snell is a member of the performing ensemble, Nzinga’s Daughters, and also directs the Youth and Mass Choir at Redeemer’s A.M.E. Zion Church. Nzinga’s Daughters is a group of six women who are well-respected professional musicians. They accompany their primarily a cappella sound with traditional drum and hand percussion and celebrate the history of African-Americans in a wide range of music. “Martin Luther King: A Celebration in Song and Prose” will use songs, poems, and speeches to send a message of hope and peace in modern Martin Luther King style.

Classes will meet Tuesdays from 6-7:30 pm in November and December and on Tuesdays and Thursdays in January. Classes are held at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown.

For more information or to sign up for “Martin Luther King: A Celebration in Song and Prose” or request a brochure of 2007-2008 classes, call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS CHAVEZ RAVINE

2007-10-29T14:30:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company opens its 07-08 season with performances of Chavez Ravine by the Chicano/Latino performance troupe, Culture Clash, on November 8-17. Directed by Enza Giannone, Chavez Ravine uses a comic, vaudevillian style to tell the powerful story of the Mexican-American neighborhood displaced by city politics and corporate greed in order to build Dodger Stadium. A cast of 20 talented teens from throughout central Connecticut portrays more than 50 fictional and nonfictional characters to create a play that “moves as swiftly as the Santa Ana winds.”

In the 1840s, City Councilman Julian Chavez purchased land near the center of the Pueblo of Los Angeles. In the early 20th century, Chavez Ravine first sheltered refugees of the 1910 Mexican Revolution and then became a multicultural home to Russian Jews and Italian and Chinese immigrants. By 1950, the Los Angeles City Council designated the area for a new public housing project, and the city forcefully evicted the residents of Chavez Ravine through the process of eminent domain and tore down their houses. The housing project was never built, and in 1959, Dodger Stadium rose on the site that had once been home to hundreds of families.

Chavez Ravine spans the years 1946-1981 but is primarily set in the 1950s. Against a background of urban expansion, political unrest, and anti-communist paranoia, this important play helps spread a message of resistance, community and solidarity.

A “can-can” preview of Chavez Ravine will be performed on November 8 at 7 pm. All tickets are “pay-what-you-can,” and audience members are asked to bring a canned or nonperishable food item for the Amazing Grace food pantry. Additional performances are on November 9 & 10 and 16 & 17 at 7:30 pm. All performances are at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, in Middletown, CT. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, please call (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS’ MARQUEE GETS A NEW LOOK

2007-10-29T14:29:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the start of its 33rd season, Oddfellows Playhouse has taken on a new look. The elaborate metal marquee on the front of the historic building is now accented with bright red, blue, green, purple, orange, and yellow panels. Middletown artist David Schulz created the colorful geometric motif and carefully integrated it with the original marquee, which was designed and fabricated in 1999 by volunteers at Pratt and Whitney—Middletown. The eye-catching new marquee can be seen from blocks away and will soon become a landmark for kids and audiences who attend Playhouse classes and productions.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE ANNOUNCES FALL 2007 CLASSES

2007-10-29T14:28:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse opens its 33rd season of performing arts classes for young people ages 2 to 20 on August 27th. The focus of this season is “Home”: what it is as a concept, a place, and a driving force in our lives. In addition to its varied line-up of exciting theater classes, Oddfellows plans some special productions of new contemporary plays.

At the heart of the fall season are two mainstage plays; a new play, Chavez Ravine, and a timeless classic, The Grapes of Wrath, which together bring the audience through a culturally and geographically complex search for home. The characters we meet this season are all searching for “home,” from the Joad family moving to a new home and the bleakness around them, to the many incarnations of the Chavez Ravine neighborhood, the current site of Dodger Stadium in LA. The simple word “home” evokes memory, longing, regret, joy, despair, anger and triumph and is a universal need for everyone. These productions will be presented by the Teen Repertory Company (ages 14-20) with auditions being held on September 5 and 6, pre-audition classes On August 27-30 and Sept. 4. Teenagers must take 2 of the 5 free pre-audition classes to be eligible to audition.

There are still places available in the introductory Complete Actor classes for ages 6-14. For students who have already taken the Complete Actor at their age levels, there are classes available in physical theater, advanced acting, and a Stage One mini-production, Peggy the Pint-Sized Pirate, to name a few. All performing arts classes are taught by professional artists and held at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Financial aid is available to help with tuition costs.

Please visit our website at www.oddfellows.org to view classes by age level or to download our new program brochure. For more information, to sign up for a class or request a 2007-2008 brochure of classes and productions, call (860) 347-6143 or email info@oddfellows.org

THE CHILDREN’S CIRCUS OF MIDDLETOWN PRESENTS “CIRCUS REVERSUS”

2007-07-17T08:16:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse and the Middletown Commission on the Arts present “Circus Reversus,” the spectacular final performance of the 19th annual Children’s Circus of Middletown. This one-time-only show will be presented on Friday, August 3 at 5 pm at Spencer Elementary School and feature over 200 young stilters, jugglers, clowns, unicyclists, dancers, and acrobats. Live music is performed by a 15-piece Circus Band, led by well-known local musician Dirck Westervelt.

“Circus Reversus,” under the direction of Jake Weinstein, turns the tables on what we expect to see. In acts taking a wacky approach to life, lions tame humans, mosquitoes sit around a campfire being tormented by people, giraffes give a dinner party, and protesters agitate for higher gas prices.

The Children’s Circus of Middletown is a 5-week half-day program of training in circus skills for young people ages 8 to 14. This is the seventh year of a challenging full-day Advanced Circus Program for 40 veteran circus participants, ages 12-15, to help them take their skills to the next level. The Children’s Circus is part of the City of Middletown’s Kids Arts 2007, with additional funding from the Middlesex United Way.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and come and enjoy a gala spectacle that has become a summer tradition. “Circus Reversus” begins at 5 pm. at Spencer Elementary School, located on 207 Westfield Street in Middletown. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. Rain date for the performance is Saturday, August 4 at 12 noon.

For more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE FUNDRAISING AUCTION SET FOR JUNE 27

2007-06-25T13:50:00.000-05:00

Thomas Barrows & Sons and B & S Auctioneers will hold a fundraising auction to benefit Oddfellows Playhouse on June 27^th at 6:30 pm. Supporters of the Playhouse have donated many wonderful items including jewelry, furniture, silver, antiques and collectibles, and vintage clothing. Highlights include: two Tiffany & Co. emerald and sapphire rings, antique Mexican silver jewelry, a pair of Derby framed mirrors, clocks from the 1800’s, Meissen porcelain, Roseville art pottery, folk art, an antique mahogany sailor-made sewing box, and a trio of Robert Mumford pen and ink drawings.

The auction will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Cromwell, CT. The auction begins at 6:30, with a preview starting at 4 pm. If you are unable to stay for the auction, but can come to the preview, you can leave a bid in absentia.

All proceeds from this auction go to Oddfellows Playhouse and support its ongoing youth programs. Oddfellows was founded in 1975 as a community-based, multicultural theater program designed to include children from all backgrounds. Today it is Connecticut’s largest and most active year-round youth theater that annually serves about 2,000 young people, ages 2-20, with an innovative program designed for asset building.

The auction will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 573 Main Street (Rt. 99), Cromwell, CT 06416. For more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND

2007-06-19T12:54:00.001-05:00

Percussion, horns, woodwinds, strings (electric or acoustic) are all needed. There will be an organizational meeting on Tuesday, June 26 from 6-9 pm at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Rehearsals will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-9 pm throughout the month of July. Although attendance at all rehearsals is not compulsory, band members are expected to have consistent attendance and must be available for the dress rehearsal on August 2 and the performance on August 3. Professional or highly experienced musicians are often able to “sit in” by coming to a few rehearsals before the show.

This is the 19th annual Children’s Circus, a 5-week program for Middletown youngsters ages 8 to 14. Over 200 young people learn such skills as juggling, stilt-walking, clowning, unicycling, acrobatics, and dance and present the results in a stupendous outdoor show, accompanied by live music by the circus band. The show annually attracts an audience of about 1,000.

To sign up for the circus band, please call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE TRAVELING CIRCUS STAGES BENEFIT PERFORMANCES

2007-05-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

Oddfellows Playhouse Traveling Circus, now in its fourth season, presents two special performances of its current show, Seven Suitcases, a Trunk and an Egg, on June 1 at 7 and 9 pm. The 7 pm show is a benefit to help Traveling Circus members attend the American Youth Circus Festival in Normal, IL in August 2007.

Seven Suitcases, a Trunk and an Egg is the story of 7 eccentric clown characters on a journey which starts with the birth of a clown and goes all the way to circus paradise. Along the way this motley and diverse crew finds romance, adventure, conflict, and, ultimately, joy. The 45-minute show, which is appropriate for all ages, features juggling, contortion, unicycling, acrobatics, stilt-dancing, and loads of side-splitting character comedy and slapstick.

Under the direction of Dic Wheeler, assisted by Amy Richmond-Prchal, the 6 members of this season’s Traveling Circus ensemble are all between the ages of 13 and 19 and are veterans of the Children’s Circus of Middletown. These young performers exhibit a professional level of circus skills that will astonish audience members unfamiliar with top-tier youth circus.

Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street in Middletown. Tickets for the 7 pm benefit show are $50 for Ringmaster seats, $25 for Sponsor seats, and $10 for general admission. Ringmasters and Sponsors will get reserved seats and a listing in the program. Tickets for the 9 pm “Roustabout” performance are all $5. For reservations or more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143.

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE 2007 SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY

2007-05-21T14:55:00.001-05:00

There are still a few places left in Oddfellows Playhouse Summer Shakespeare Academy, an intensive 4-week Shakespeare-in-Performance program for high school students. The program runs from July 2-28, 2007 and culminates in 3 mainstage double-bill performances of Othello and Much Ado About Nothing. Directed by Playhouse artistic director Jeffery Allen, the Summer Shakespeare Academy offers a challenging, fun experience for teenagers throughout central Connecticut.

Oddfellows Playhouse is Connecticut’s oldest and largest youth theater with a 32-year history of artistic excellence. The Summer Shakespeare Academy meets weekdays, 9 am to 3:30 pm, starting Monday, July 2 and combines rigorous actor training directly connected to the performance of full-length Shakespeare plays. The first week will focus on acting and movement, stage combat, text analysis, and understanding Shakespeare’s historical and cultural background. At the end of week one, students will be cast into parts for Othello and Much Ado About Nothing. Each participants will get a substantial role in one of the productions. Weeks 2 and 3 will be split: mornings will feature additional training and special rehearsals to support the production and afternoons will be dedicated to rehearsals. Week 4 will start with technical and dress rehearsals, followed by a 3-show run on July 26-28.

The Academy is open to anyone ages 14 to 18 who has completed 9^th grade. Enrollment is by application and audition. Auditions are by appointment. To audition, students should prepare a short Shakespeare monologue from 12-20 lines. It must be memorized.

The Summer Shakespeare Academy will take place at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Enrollment is limited to 20.

For more information or to receive an application form and schedule an audition, call Oddfellows Playhouse at (860) 347-6143 or email jeffery@oddfellows.org.

Oddfellows Playhouse Press Release Blog Online

2007-05-21T14:44:00.001-05:00

We have launched a blog to publish our press releases. Check back here to see the latest OP news!

Oddfellows Press Releases

The Circus Returns This Weekend!

Winter classes and programs staring soon!

Happy Holidays from Oddfellows

Santa is Coming to Oddfellows...sort of...

Monday, December 12, 2011

Feelin' Grinchy?

Slaughterhouse 5

Fall Classes Starting Up

Children's Circus Rises Like Phoenix with a Golden Nose

Q&A with Marcy Arlin

The Farnsworth Invention

Nothing Says Spring Like...

Meet Monica Velour

Meet Monica Velour

Spring Forward with Spring Classes

Spring Forward with Spring Classes

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Summer is Almost Here

One Man's Trash is Another Man's...Costume?

Mayor's Ball donates $5,000 to Oddfellows

Thank You

Costume and Prop Storage Lost

Renowned Circus Performer Rob Mermin kicks off national tour in Middletown

Santaland Success

Foundations Support Neighborhood Troupes Program

Life of Galileo - Final Weekend

Holiday Production!

Fall 2010 Share Day

RUR kicks off Oddfellows' Main Stage

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PLANS 35TH BIRTHDAY BENEFIT

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE KICKS OFF “AROUND MIDDLETOWN IN 80 DAYS

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE HOLDS ARTS EXPLORERS EVENT

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT “HANSEL AND GRETEL AND THE BIG WOODS”

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE AMERICAN CLOCK

SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY, ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE NAMES NEW CHILDREN’S CIRCUS DIRECTOR

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS INHERIT THE WIND

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

*ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS *

REGISTER NOW FOR ODDFELLOWS WINTER ACTING CLASSES

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /THE THREEPENNY OPERA

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE NAMES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR*

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS BENEFIT PERFORMANCES OF /HAMLET/*

Composers and Improvisers Festival September 27th

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR*

*THE CHILDREN’S CIRCUS OF MIDDLETOWN PRESENTS “CIRCUS OUT OF THIS WORLD” *

*ODDFELLOWS** PLAYHOUSE SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY** PRESENTS /MEASURE FOR MEASURE /AND /THE TAMING OF THE SHREW/*

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND*

ODDFELLOWS TRAVELING CIRCUS PERFORMS THE CHEST OF TWO WORLDS

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT*

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT*

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE RECEIVES $18,000 ARTS GRANT*

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE 2008 SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY*

*SALTAMONTES PUPPET THEATER PERFORMS AT ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE *

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE LARAMIE PROJECT

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE LARAMIE PROJECT

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /ANON(YMOUS)/*

*SPACES AVAILABLE IN ODDFELLOWS SPRING ACTING CLASSES*

*ODDFELLOWS** JUNIOR REPERTORY COMPANY PRESENTS TREASURE ISLAND***

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /BLISS/ *

ODDFELLOWS’ FUNDRAISER FEATURES FABULOUS AUCTION ITEMS

CITIZENS BANK SPONSORS ODDFELLOWS’ SALUTE TO MARTIN LUTHER KING *

*ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE CELEBRATES CARNAVAL*

ODDFELLOWS TRAVELING CIRCUS PREMIERES NEW SHOW

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE ANNOUNCES WINTER CLASSES FOR LITTLE FELLOWS

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE THANKS LOCAL BUSINESSES

SPACES AVAILABLE IN ODDFELLOWS WINTER ACTING CLASSES

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS THE GRAPES OF WRATH

ODDFELLOWS’ CLASS SALUTES MARTIN LUTHER KING

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS CHAVEZ RAVINE

ODDFELLOWS’ MARQUEE GETS A NEW LOOK

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE ANNOUNCES FALL 2007 CLASSES

THE CHILDREN’S CIRCUS OF MIDDLETOWN PRESENTS “CIRCUS REVERSUS”

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE FUNDRAISING AUCTION SET FOR JUNE 27

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE TRAVELING CIRCUS STAGES BENEFIT PERFORMANCES

ODDFELLOWS’ WACKY WEDNESDAYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE NAMES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS BENEFIT PERFORMANCES OF /HAMLET/

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

THE CHILDREN’S CIRCUS OF MIDDLETOWN PRESENTS “CIRCUS OUT OF THIS WORLD”

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY PRESENTS /MEASURE FOR MEASURE /AND /THE TAMING OF THE SHREW/

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SEEKS MUSICIANS FOR CHILDREN’S CIRCUS BAND

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE SECOND STAGE PLAYERS PRESENT

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE RECEIVES $18,000 ARTS GRANT

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE 2008 SUMMER SHAKESPEARE ACADEMY

SALTAMONTES PUPPET THEATER PERFORMS AT ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /ANON(YMOUS)/

SPACES AVAILABLE IN ODDFELLOWS SPRING ACTING CLASSES

ODDFELLOWS JUNIOR REPERTORY COMPANY PRESENTS TREASURE ISLAND

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS /BLISS/

ODDFELLOWS PLAYHOUSE CELEBRATES CARNAVAL