LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast members from Spokane Civic Theatre's Jagged Little Pill join host Henry McNulty to discuss the production. Written by Diablo Cody, the musical is inspired by the album by Alanis Morisette. Guests include Executive Director Jake Schaefer, Music Director Christian Skok, and actors Isabella Jimenez and John Ko. “Head Over Feet”
After receiving backlash for how its production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” was cast, Spokane Civic Theatre canceled the production and hit pause while they regrouped and worked toward a more inclusive future. Ten days after announcing the cancellation of “Hunchback,” Civic announced its next show would instead be “Jagged Little Pill,” a jukebox musical that
Main Stage September 25 – October 18, 2026 By Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayers & Henry Shields Brace yourselves for an awfully big adventure when the inept and accident-prone Cornley Drama Society set out to present J.M. Barrie’s much-loved classic tale of Peter Pan, their most audacious production to date. What ensues is two acts of hysterical
Announcing the cast of Alanis Morissette's JAGGED LITTLE PILL: THE MUSICAL. Thank you to all who auditioned!Featuring the themes and raw emotions of Alanis Morisette’s groundbreaking 1995 album of the same name, JAGGED LITTLE PILL examines the importance of empathy, authenticity, identity, and healing in the face of difficult realities.The Healys appear to be a
Join Director Jean Hardie for a one-time workshop on how to understand and speak the works of William Shakespeare. Learn tips on how to untangle the grammar, honor the punctuation and navigate the mysteries of iambic pentameter. Open to all but especially intended for those who plan to audition for A Midsummer Night’s Dream! Sat.
Playwright Bryan Harnetiaux wants to make it clear that “Squalor” is not about him. His latest work as Spokane Civic Theatre’s resident playwright, “Squalor” tells the story of William Kasinski, a mystery writer with a long, successful career that’s recently been hit with a period so slow that Kasinski begins to wonder if it might
Inlander Best of the Inland Northwest Readers Poll 2026, Best Local Theater Production of the Past Year: WAITRESS “I LOVED seeing Waitress! The show tugged at my heart strings and was very well executed. My favorite musical of all time! Great singing and overall performance.” (Emily B.); “Top-notch performances!” (Cindy R.); “The Civic brought the talent
A mother’s love can be well-meaning but overbearing. From a child’s perspective, that love can feel supportive, but also suffocating. In “The Glass Menagerie,” single mother Amanda Wingfield wants the best for her children Tom and Laura but can’t help but compare their lives to her once-privileged life, working tirelessly to set her children up
Announcing the cast of SQUALOR. Thank you to all who auditioned! After a long and successful career as a mystery writer spanning nearly 50 years, William Kasinski has hit a protracted and unsettling fallow period. Does this mark a temporary setback or the end of his professional work life? At his agent’s insistence, Kasinski agrees
Congratulations to the playwrights selected for inclusion in this year's Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival and thank you to all who submitted. Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present its celebrated Playwrights’ Forum Festival, which, since 1983, has showcased new one-acts by playwrights from across the region. 37 Origami Bees Will Gilman Airway Heights, WA
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director Chelsea Duvall and actor Melody Deatherage joined Host Henry McNulty to discuss Spokane Civic Theatre's production of POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive, written by Selina Fillinger. Playing: Now – March 8th | Thurs. – Sat. @ 7:30 PM, Sun. @
It happens every time. Whenever I watch a musical produced by a community theater, there is a moment when I think “I can’t believe that these performers live in town, that the theater isn’t bussing people in from New York City.” Knowing I could see any of these performers at the grocery store blows my
As the saying goes, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” But who’s behind the not-so-great men? The ones who always seem to be one move away from personal and/or professional disaster? According to playwright Selena Fillinger, maintaining that type of man requires seven women. In her play “POTUS: Or Behind Every Great Dumba**
At a time when national politics feels so tense and inescapable and grim, a play called POTUS might seem like a tough sell — even if you’re already well aware that it’s a comic farce. Then again, POTUS isn’t a purely political play. Yes, it’s set in the White House. And, yes, its all-female septet of characters includes the First
Announcing the cast of VOICES. Thank you to all who auditioned!VOICES is a Season 78 Special Performance and Civic Member appreciation event — a Main Stage concert presentation of songs from musicals throughout the ages, featuring some of our community’s finest voices.Music from A NEW BRAIN, CHESS, COMPANY, FOLLIES, THE GREAT GATSBY, JERSEY BOYS, ON
Announcing the cast of THE GLASS MENAGERIE. Thank you to all who auditioned!By Tennessee Williams, one of the greatest 20th century American playwrights, THE GLASS MENAGERIE, an intimate and beautiful story about family, dreams and the weight of the past, resonates across generations with deeply relatable characters and emotions.Amanda Wingfield only wants the best for
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAMMAIN STAGE | JULY 24 - AUGUST 2Since first presented in 1595-1596, Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM has enchanted artists and audiences with its interconnecting plots, mischievous fairies and troupe of actors presenting an ancient story of ill-fated lovers.By William ShakespeareDirected by Jean HardieEligibility: Ages 14-22 (rising 9th grade and
Contrary to what social media trends might imply, the #Trad-Wife movement has been around for ages. Aspiring to fit oneself into a traditional female role has been the burden of countless fictional characters of the past, such as Emma from Jane Austen’s novel of the same name, written more than 200 years ago. Modern-day playwright
Though the 1995 movie Clueless has made its own mark on the cultural zeitgeist, its source material may be even more iconic. (Ugh, as if!) Jane Austen’s 1815 novel Emma follows the rich young Emma Woodhouse. She’s highly intelligent, beautiful and spoiled by her life in the British landed gentry. Although she’s a 21-year-old who wishes to never marry,
It's that time of the year again when we ask our readers to highlight the best and the brightest in the Inland Northwest in the Inlander's annual Best Of reader's poll. Voting is now open, so make sure you choose your favorite, well, everything before the polls close on Tuesday, Feb. 17. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION
After two successful readers theater presentations, Spokane Civic Theatre is thrilled to fully produce POTUS with our original company. It’s just another day at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave until a White House PR nightmare threatens to spins out of control. It will take seven brilliant and beleaguered women risking life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity
When reviewing local or touring theatrical productions, I often bring my mom along as my plus one. At some point during each show, she’ll inevitably comment “I don’t know how you can see” when I’m taking notes in the dark. I keep a little notebook on me to write down plot points, standout moments, favorite
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's production of All Is Calm joins host Henry McNulty in the studio to perform selections from the show. Director Abbey Crawford and Music Director Jesse Hampsch discuss the music, their personal experience with this powerful piece of theatre, and the historical events that inspired it. Cast: Daniel Bell
Some people seem to have everything and need nothing when the holidays roll around, but rather than trying to find a niche knickknack or something you think they really need, consider picking something that won’t add more stuff to their lives. Maybe they’re an avid sports fan or lover of the arts, or just like to get outside.
I have watched “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (the claymation classic film) a lot. I was most looking forward to seeing my favorite character, the Abominable Snowman, on stage, and I was going to be disappointed if I didn’t see it. Boy, did I freak out when I saw it. The Abominable Snowman and Lion (puppets)
When a classic Christmas claymation film is remade into a stage musical, audience members probably expect to have a good time. But this audience member didn’t expect to feel a pang of nostalgia and emotion at the sight of one little puppet. Spokane Civic Theatre is in the middle of its production of “Rudolph the
In years past, winter has brought many holiday stories to Spokane Civic Theatre’s stage. From classics like “White Christmas” and “A Christmas Carol” to more modern favorites like “A Christmas Story” and “A Sherlock Carol,” many have made seeing Civic’s winter show part of their holiday traditions. This year, Civic brings a new story to
Announcing the cast of EMMA. Thank you to all who auditioned!Emma Woodhouse is clever, wealthy, and believes she knows best when it comes to love—especially when it’s other people’s love lives. Her latest scheme involves the sweet Harriet Smith, whom she advises to reject a perfectly good marriage proposal in favor of another eligible bachelor. As
Spokane Civic Theatre has recently been nominated for the 2025 BroadwayWorld Seattle Awards with 5 of their productions; An Enemy of the People, Lend Me A Soprano, The Beauty Queen of Leenane, The Wind in the Willows, and Legally Blonde. In addition to the production nominations, Spokane Civic Theatre has also been nominated for Favorite
Announcing the cast of GEEZERS — an Ignite! Readers Theater Booklight Production. Thank you to all who auditioned. GEEZERS introduces us to some beautiful and wonderful old people who are enjoying their golden years in a retirement home. Jack, a pathologically shy, 27-year-old man, begins a job there helping the seniors with their daily needs.
There is something special about being part of an audience where it feels like everyone in the room is holding their breath, at least a little bit. I felt that from the moment the Creature (Rhead Shirley) burst – literally – from the stage in Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Frankenstein,” directed by Preston Loomer.
An English teacher by day, director Preston Loomer has taught Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” a number of times. Each time he revisits the novel, he feels as if it’s even more interesting and relevant with an undercurrent of modern topics in an old story. Reading the script of Nick Dear’s “Frankenstein,” a stage adaptation of “Frankenstein,
Announcing the cast of RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER. Thank you to all who auditioned!A heartwarming musical based on the beloved holiday television special. Young Rudolph struggles to fit in with the other reindeer in Christmastown and sets off to find a place where he’ll be accepted. As he befriends fellow misfits along the way, Rudolph
If you saw a sea of people wearing pink around Riverfront Park this weekend, I’ll answer your “What’s that about?” question: They were heading to Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Legally Blonde.” Walking into Saturday’s show, I saw a mix of people dressed nicely for an evening of theater and people whose outfits would’ve gotten
Announcing the cast of ALL IS CALM: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914 — returning to Spokane for the first time since 2016. Thank you to all who auditioned! On a cold winter night on the Western Front of the First World War, a pause in the violence, a silence, then a song. A German soldier
Filling the season for Spokane Civic Theatre’s main stage is a very particular process. The season opener, according to Executive Director Jake Schaefer, needs to be strong, something that makes a statement. In the winter, the show should be welcoming, usually a more traditional story, and something celebratory of the season. In the mid-winter, the
Nostalgia has a tendency to color the past in a rosy tint. That's why sometimes when we watch movies and TV shows that we loved years ago, it doesn't hit quite the same. Maybe the characters feel a little off or those iconic moments you can still quote aren't as impactful, but either way the unstoppable
Some people were born to be heroes. Brave souls who are practically destined to save the day or maybe even the world. They don’t back down from a challenge and get right back up every time they’re knocked down. Puffs are not those people. “Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of
Announcing the cast of FRANKENSTEIN — Nick Dear’s gripping adaptation of the famous story of horror, psychology and philosophy. Thank you to all who auditioned! This electrifying tale of a creature cast away by his creator into a hostile world—only to wind his way back in a dangerous game of destruction—has captivated audiences for over
OMIGOD, YOU GUYS! Announcing the cast of LEGALLY BLONDE. Thank you to all who auditioned!When the effervescent Elle Woods is dumped by her boyfriend, she follows him to Harvard Law School, determined to win him back. But what starts as a plot to regain her relationship turns into much more as Elle realizes her true
When Danny Anderson sat in the audience of My Turn Theater's 2022 production of Guys and Dolls Jr., he had no idea he'd be running the organization three years later. All he knew was that the show was a "very inspiring, joy-filled experience" that made him want to become more involved. Which is exactly what he did.
As soon as the curtain closed on their production of “Guys and Dolls,” actor Danny Anderson knew he’d be working with My Turn Theater in some capacity. My Turn Theater gives actors with physical or intellectual disabilities opportunities to take the stage. Before there was My Turn Theater, there was Out of the Shadows Theater,
Announcing the cast of PUFFS — an Ignite! Readers Theater Booklight Production. Thank you to all who auditioned. The New York Times proclaims PUFFS “A fast-paced romp through the ‘Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic.’ For Potterphiliacs who grew up alongside Potter and are eager to revisit that world,
We all have that friend who flits about from one thing to the next, not realizing just how much their scatter-brained, sometimes borderline chaotic, behavior can affect others. Or maybe you’re that friend. In “The Wind in the Willows,” it’s Mr. Toad. He is passionate about many things, but only briefly, and doesn’t seem to
Main Stage Shows LEGALLY BLONDE A fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie that follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Book by Heather Hach Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the
Congratulations to the winners of the 35th Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival! YOUTH DIVISION SELECTION “Terminal Turmoil” By Ella McQuaig (Spokane, WA) Directed by Jerry Sciarrio ADJUDICATORS’ SELECTION “Intro to Greek Theater” By Burcu Seyben (Twin Falls, ID) Directed by Sara Edlin-Marlowe AUDIENCE CHOICE “A. Lee” By Pam Kingsley (Spokane, WA) Directed by Ladonna Wojtowicz
Truth be told, Elise Forier Edie is a little unsettled by one cast member in Living Doll, the play she's directing in the Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival, which kicks off this evening in the Spokane Civic Theatre's Firth J. Chew Studio. The female cast member goes by Cookie and has been known to give people the
Announcing the cast of PETER AND THE STARCATCHER. Thank you to all who auditioned! Tony-winning PETER AND THE STARCATCHER upends the century-old story of how an orphan comes to be Peter Pan. The play provides a backstory for the characters of Peter Pan, Mrs. Darling, Tinker Bell and Hook, and serves as a prequel to
Since 1982, Bryan Harnetiaux’s name has been connected to Spokane Civic Theatre as the playwright in residence. Over the years, a number of his works have premiered at Civic, including “National Pastime,” a play about Jackie Robinson and Wesley Branch Rickey, the white president and general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, “York,” a show
Join us in celebrating YOU, the volunteer casts and crews that are the lifeline of Spokane Civic Theatre. Wednesday, June 25 | 5-8 PM Longhorn Barbecue and soft drinks provided. Alcohol available for purchase. RSVP: https://form.jotform.com/251557749889178
Spokane Civic Theatre’s 35th Playwrights’ Forum Festival of short plays includes 12 productions and runs June 19 - 22 in the Firth J Chew Studio Theatre. The Playwrights’ Forum Festival Gathering is Saturday, June 21 and includes multiple interactive panel discussions regarding the art and business of playwriting, providing helpful information and suggestions for local
Announcing the cast of THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS. Thank you to all who auditioned!Full of humor, wit, a gorgeous, soaring score, and heartwarming lessons of friendship, THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS follows Mole, Rat, Badger, and the impulsive Mr. Toad, whose insatiable need for speed lands him in serious trouble. With his beloved home
Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Waitress” is likely the first production in the theater’s history that necessitates having three refrigerators backstage. Or a member of the crew – Theresa Johnson – responsible for baking five pies a week. Or real “sugar, butter, flour” as part of the props budget, which also called on the props
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Chelsea LeValley (Jenna), Troy Nickerson (Director), and Tonya Ballman-Lakewolf (Music Director) from Spokane Civic Theatre's Waitress join host Henry McNulty in the studio to discuss their upcoming production of this iconic musical about hope, resilience, and finding happiness where you are. Song: “What Baking Can Do” Performed by Chelsea LeValley Piano,
Spokane Civic Theatre connoisseurs will recognize Jamie L. Suter’s name for her work in the theater’s costume department. They might be surprised however to see her name front and center as she moves into the role of director on “The Beauty Queen of Leenane.” Suter had directed previously while living in New York and helmed
Congratulations to the company of this year's Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival. Thank you to all the playwrights who submitted work, directors who submitted ideas and actors who auditioned!Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present its celebrated Playwrights’ Forum Festival, which, since 1983, has showcased new one-acts by playwrights from across the region. PLAYWRIGHTS
Main Stage Book by Heather Hach Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture September 19 - October 12, 2025 A fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes
This weekend, Spokane Civic Theatre is offering a double dose of Shakespeare, kind of. On the Margot and Robert Ogden Main Stage, the theater continues with “Romeo and Juliet,” which runs through April 13. In the Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre, Civic and Ignite! Community Theatre present Paul Rudnick’s “I Hate Hamlet.” In this readers
Announcing the cast of WAITRESS. Thank you to all who auditioned!Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, is stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. When a baking contest in a nearby county offers her a chance at escape, Jenna must weigh her commitments against a rare shot at freedom and recognition. Her
Josh Baig was a student at Spokane Falls Community College when he first met Bill Marlowe, a longtime SFCC instructor who also headed the college's drama department until his retirement in 2016. Looking back, Baig recalls it as a pivotal time. Not only did Marlowe end up stoking his love of theater, he also cultivated in
Though they produced a staged reading of William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” during the 2017-18 season, the last mainstage production of the play at Spokane Civic Theatre was during the 1996-97 season. And the last Shakespeare show, tragedy or comedy, on the mainstage was “Macbeth” during the 2000-01 season. So when Executive Director Jake Schaefer
Happy World Theatre Day! We have so much to celebrate. To our creative collaborators, thank you for your commitment, passion and for sharing your insurmountable talents with Civic. To our Members, patrons, sponsors, and supporters, thank you for putting your trust in us and empowering Civic to be a premier creative force in the region.
Announcing the cast of THE BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE. Thank you to all who auditioned! The play is set in Leenane, a small town in Connemara, County Galway—in the west of Ireland. Maureen is good and stuck in the house she grew up in, caring for her aging mother, Mag. Mag is a nightmare and
Nestled in the intimate setting of a black-box theater lined with green turf, Spokane Civic Theatre presented “The Wolves,” a play that explored the friendships and struggles of young women through the lens of a club soccer team in the middle of suburban America. Each scene in the show took place before and after games – the
Playwright Sarah Delappe’s 2016 debut, “The Wolves,” is an emotionally moving, award-winning story about a girl’s indoor soccer team that navigates issues of friendship, loss and growing up. Spokane Civic Theatre’s production opened March 7 and runs until March 30. While technically it’s a show about soccer, the heart of “The Wolves” lies in the
Congratulations to the playwrights selected for inclusion in this year's Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival and thank you to all who submitted. Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present its celebrated Playwrights’ Forum Festival, which, since 1983, has showcased new one-acts by playwrights from across the region. A. Lee Pam Kingsley Spokane, WA Blackout Lee
Announcing the cast of I HATE HAMLET — an Ignite! Readers Theater Booklight Production. Thank you to all who auditioned. This comedic masterpiece explores the clash between Hollywood and classical theatre. Follow Andrew Rally, a TV actor reluctantly preparing to play Hamlet in Central Park. When he moves into John Barrymore's former apartment, he encounters
At first glance it may seem like Spokane Civic Theatre and ONE Spokane Stadium, home of the Spokane Zephyr and Spokane Velocity soccer teams, share only a parking lot in common, but dig a little deeper and you’ll see the two entities are more connected than you might think. Both the Zephyr and Velocity, part
Spokane Civic Theatre teamed up with Ignite! Community Theatre to bring a redesigned approach to a classic story. The local theater groups put their own spin on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic, “The Great Gatsby" through an in-concert style dramatic reading, held on Feb. 21. This production proved to be surprisingly funny and an exceptionally well-done
Announcing the cast of THE GREAT GATSBY — an Ignite! Readers Theater Booklight Production. Thank you to all who auditioned. Jay Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, passionately pursues the elusive Daisy Buchanan. Nick Carraway, a young newcomer to Long Island, is drawn into their world of obsession, greed and danger. The breathtaking glamour and decadent excess
With mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, behind-the-scenes shenanigans and lots of slamming doors, “Lend Me a Soprano” is perhaps a textbook example of a madcap comedy. “Lend Me a Soprano,” a gender-swapped take on “Lend Me a Tenor,” both of which were written by Ken Ludwig, takes place in 1934 in a two-room hotel suite, with
Announcing the cast of ROMEO & JULIET. Thank you to all who auditioned! Verona’s Montague and Capulet families have been feuding for ages and whenever they meet, violence breaks out. But when Romeo glimpses Juliet across a crowded dance floor, something different happens. Can star-crossed love survive in a world of rivalry and rage? With
If you’re lucky, co-workers can turn into true friends. These are the people you work alongside day in and day out, celebrating the highs and commiserating over the lows that life throws your way. These are the people you collaborate with, take lunch breaks with and complain about seemingly endless meetings with. Sometimes, it feels
Civic has won in 4 categories for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Seattle Awards! Best Costume Design Of A Play Or Musical Jamie L. Suter - CATS - Spokane Civic Theatre Best Musical CATS - Spokane Civic Theatre Best Scenic Design Of A Play Or Musical Denny Pham - HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL - Spokane Civic Theatre Favorite Local Theatre Spokane Civic Theatre
Dancers can, of course, dance without choreography, allowing the music or their own intuition to guide their moves. And choreographers can, of course, choreograph without a group of dancers, planning elaborate routines in their heads. But the real magic of dance happens when both sides come together, as dancers expertly execute the complex choreography presented
Announcing the cast of THE WOLVES. Thank you to all who auditioned! In this contemporary slice-of-life play, The Wolves, a girls’ indoor soccer team, practice drills as they prepare for a succession of games. As they warm up and talk about life, the girls navigate the politics of their personal lives as well as the
Announcing the cast of LEND ME A SOPRANO. Thank you to all who auditioned!It’s 1934, and the clever and combustible Lucille Wiley, Manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is ready to welcome world-class soprano Elena Firenzi for her one-night-only starring role in Carmen. Alas, Elena arrives late, her impassioned husband Pasquale has a fit
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Co-Directors Jonah Taylor and Jake Schaefer join Henry McNulty to discuss Spokane Civic Theatre's production of A Christmas Carol, opening November 29, 2024. "In Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, three spirits show Scrooge happy memories from his past, difficult realities from the present and a grim future, should he continue
Just like seeing “A Christmas Carol” is a holiday tradition for many, producing the Charles Dickens novella in some form has become a holiday tradition for Spokane Civic Theatre. A look at the theater’s online archive reveals 15 productions of “A Christmas Carol,” be it the stage play, musical, radio play or spins on the
This weekend, as in many years past, A Christmas Carol opens on the main stage of the Spokane Civic Theatre. This production makes use of the popular adaptation by Barbara Field, which has been the theater's preferred version of Charles Dickens' classic holiday tale for more than 40 years. "Civic has done all the musical
Spokane Civic Theatre has recently been nominated for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Seattle Awards with 4 of their productions; She Loves Me, The Comedy of Errors, CATS, and Heathers: The Musical. Voting ends December 31st, 2024. Vote here! She Loves Me nominations include: Best Scenic Design Of A Play Or Musical, and Favorite Local Theatre. Performed December
Announcing the cast of SWEAT. Thank you to all who auditioned!Filled with warm humor and tremendous heart, SWEAT tells the story of a group of friends who have spent their lives sharing drinks, secrets, and laughs while working together on the factory floor. But when layoffs and picket lines begin to chip away at their
Announcing the cast of EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD (AND THEN SOME!). Thank you to all who auditioned! When three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told, Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to contemporary pop-culture, and every carol ever sung come together to create this madcap romp
Arthur Miller’s adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “An Enemy of the People” is a dramatic historical play following one man, Dr. Thomas Stockmann, and his transformation from a beloved figure of his community to a so-called enemy as he attempts to expose the poison within the town springs’ water supply. The Spokane Civic Theatre’s production opened
Announcing the cast of A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Thank you to all who auditioned!A miserly and miserable man, Ebenezer Scrooge greets each Christmas with “Bah! Humbug!” until he is visited one Christmas Eve by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future. In Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, the three spirits show Scrooge happy memories
It only takes one voice to spark a change, but being the one to speak out can be daunting when facing a system built to protect itself, not the people it serves. In “An Enemy of the People,” that one voice belongs to Dr. Thomas Stockmann. Stockmann (Thor Edgell), the medical officer of a new
For a musical full of frothy numbers about New England steamed clams, the springtime mating habits of livestock and humans alike, and the comic perils of falling for a man who persistently reeks of herring, “Carousel” also doesn’t shy away from some serious darkness. Written in the first part of the 20th century by iconic
It’s not uncommon for directors to have multiple experiences working with a particular show. Jean Hardie, who is directing “Carousel,” the musical, opening Spokane Civic Theatre’s 77th season, for example, choreographed the show when it was produced at Civic 40 years ago. Before that, she choreographed a production while working in Montana. During that production,
When the creative duo of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II had to follow the immense success of their first musical collaboration, Oklahoma!, they went with the obvious choice: a turn-of-the-century Hungarian play about an inarticulate, impetuous carnival barker who mistreats his girlfriend, commits suicide during a botched robbery and later makes a posthumous attempt at redemption
Announcing the cast of AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE. Thank you to all who auditioned!When Dr. Stockmann discovers that the water in the small Norwegian town in which he is the resident physician has been contaminated, he does what any responsible citizen would do: reports it to the authorities. But Stockmann’s good deed has the
Announcing the cast of CAROUSEL, Civic’s 77th season-opening production. Thank you to all who auditioned!In May 1873, a bustling carnival enlivens a small fishing village on the rocky New England coastline. Charming but troubled Billy Bigelow and Julie Jordan, a quiet girl who works in the mill, fall in love, marry and have a stormy
Eleven performers ages 12-19 are bringing a classic tale about childhood wonder to life at the Spokane Civic Theatre. “The Little Prince” follows the strange Little Prince telling the stories of his travels across planets to a crash-landed Aviator in the Sahara Desert. The show, adapted from the novel by Antoine de Saint-Exupery, explores themes
It’s not often that Spokane Civic Theatre has to list resources such as Child Protective Services, the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Hotline on its website, but it’s also not often that the theater produces a show like “Heathers.” Co-directors Heather McHenry-Kroetch and Troy Nickerson understand any hesitation people might
Introducing Season 77 production teams: MAIN STAGE CAROUSEL Last produced by Civic 40 years ago September 13 - October 13, 2024 Music by Richard Rodgers Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Based on the play “Liliom” by Ferenc Molnar as adapted by Benjamin F. Glazer Directed by Jean Hardie | Musical Staging by Kathie
Congratulations to the cast of XANADU JR. Thank you to all who auditioned! Xanadu JR. is inspired by the Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical and the Universal Pictures’ cult classic movie that starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly. Xanadu JR. is a moving, electrifying tale of endless fun that will keep audiences in stitches while the
Congratulations to the cast of THE LITTLE PRINCE. Thank you to all who auditioned! When a plane crashes in the Sahara Desert, the Aviator encounters a Little Prince from another planet who shares incredible tales of intergalactic travels. As the stories of the Rose, the Fox and the Snake unfold, the characters reveal invaluable insights
Nicole Ostlie as Sillabub in the Civic's production of Cats. Cats was an unlikely theatrical phenomenon. The musical's primary source material is Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, a collection of quirky children's poems by T.S. Eliot, the same literary figure who gave us ominous and melancholic works like The Waste Land and The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock. It indulges
When I spoke with director Jake Schaefer to preview Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Cats,” he said the musical is “a gigantic production.” Having never seen “Cats” before, I only had general information about the show, yet I still understood what he was talking about. The show features a large ensemble cast, most of whom
Congratulations to the cast of HEATHERS THE MUSICAL. Thank you to all who auditioned!This dark-comedy rock musical, based on the 1988 cult-classic movie, follows high school senior Veronica’s struggle to survive while navigating teenage life with the beautiful but cruel Heathers. Veronica Sawyer: Josian Brett Jason "J.D." Dean: Jameson Elton Heather Chandler: Karlin Marie Kahler Heather McNamara:
A group of cats, called the Jellicles, must come together to make the “Jellicle choice,” which involves deciding which of them will rise to the “Heaviside Layer” and be born anew. Huh? But thanks to music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, which was based on a book of poetry by T.S. Eliot called “Old Possum’s
Congratulations to the company of this year's Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival. Thank you to all who auditioned! Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present its celebrated Playwrights’ Forum Festival, which, since 1983, has showcased new one-acts by playwrights from across the region. The festival is performed in two separate sets on alternating days.
While the seasons can be fairly inconsistent in the Inland Northwest, spring can usually be determined by the release of Spokane Civic Theatre's showings for the year. This year, the weather even played along. Civic's schedule for the 2024-25 — the nonprofit community theater's 77th season — came out last week and it's filled with
Main Stage Music by Richard Rodgers Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Based on the Play Liliom by Ferenc Molnar as adapted by Benjamin F. Glazer September 13 – October 13, 2024 In a Maine coastal village toward the end of the 19th century, a swaggering, carefree carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, captivates and marries
The art of making art Is putting it together, Bit by bit Beat by beat, Part by part -Stephen Sondheim For Spokane Civic Theatre’s this-weekend-only musical revue, Executive Director Jake Schaefer borrowed a phrase from Stephen Sondheim’s 1983 song about making art. “’Beat by Beat’ is from the song “Putting It Together” from the show
Congratulations to the casts of Civic’s upcoming READERS THEATER series. Thank you to all who auditioned! COMPANY Danny Anderson, Joshua Baig, Alex Barclay, Lacey Bohnet-Olson, Barry K Brathovde, Lani Call, Trevor Caragan, Sallie Christensen, Abby Constable, Karla Dansereau-Avielle, Nathan Davies, Melody Deatherage, Chelsea DuVall, Jameson Elton, Shaune Gardner, Jean Hardie, Peter Hardie, Scarlett Hepworth, Nicole
Congratulations to the playwrights selected for the 34th Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights' Forum Festival. Thank you to all who submitted! Ask. Tell. Barbara Lindsay Shoreline, WA Broken Siena Lotrario Youth Division Spokane, WA Damn Ye Jack Slade Paul Lewis Bainbridge Island, WA The Invention of Pickle Ball Rachael Carnes Eugene, OR Jack and Jorma (Yorma) John
Congratulations to the cast of BEAT BY BEAT. Thank you to all who auditioned! Join us March 29 and 30 on the Main Stage for the unveiling of Season 77 titles and a curated musical revue, highlighting our community’s boundless talent. Songs from THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, BE MORE CHILL, BEETLEJUICE, INTO
Spokane Civic Theatre’s skilled young cast of “The Comedy of Errors” proves that Shakespeare can still be funny, even in the 21st century. Following the stories of two sets of identical twins who are separated at birth, the action begins in the ancient Turkish city of Ephesus when the first set of twins arrive, now
Spokane Civic Theatre, in partnership with Gonzaga University’s Dance Department, is proud to present the record-breaking, genre-defying musical CATS, by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Really Useful Group. Congratulations to the cast. Thank you to all who auditioned! CATS is set amongst a larger-than-life junkyard playground and is alive with purr-fect felines.
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director and cast perform scenes from and discuss the Mozart–Salieri rivalry play Dan Bisbee, Melody Deatherage and Mitch Heid came into the KPBX studio to speak with E.J. Iannelli on behalf of the Spokane Civic Theatre new main stage production of Amadeus. The 1979 play, written by Peter Shaffer, imagines
Outside the Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre was a snowy Spokane, but inside was a window into South Boston. It was opening night at the Spokane Civic Theatre for “Good People,” a play by David Lindsay-Abaire. A gritty, real exploration into class relationships, identity, luck and even a little bit of bingo. From the action
As a professional voiceover actor, Deborah Marlowe has a leg up when it comes to mimicking regional accents. Her soothing, trusted tones can be heard nationwide, portraying dramatic characters in video games, selling breath fresheners and house cleansers in commercials, and narrating art museum tours and nature films, just to name some of her professional
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast members and director discuss a play about "Southie" and class identity Scarlett Hepworth, Pam Kingsley, Deborah Marlowe and Marianne McLaughlin entered the KPBX studio to talk with E.J. Iannelli about the Spokane Civic Theatre's new production of Good People. The plays opens this weekend in the theater's studio space.
Congratulations to the cast of Civic Academy's THE COMEDY OF ERRORS. Thank you all who auditioned! Get ready for rip-roaring fun in Shakespeare’s madcap comedy about long-lost siblings and mistaken identities. Shakespeare bases his story on Plautus’s MENAECHMI, a play about identical twins who accidentally meet after a lifetime apart. He borrows from another Plautus
The cast of "Merrily We Roll Along," a Spokane Civic Theatre production, will take the stage this weekend. When “Merrily We Roll Along,” debuted in 1934 and hit Broadway in 1981, the play, which is an inspired story about the lives and friendships of three friends over a 20-year period, flopped. A number of critics
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Directors and cast discuss the challenging Sondheim musical and perform two songs Joel Cummings, David Hardie, Jean Hardie, Henry McNulty and Kalla Mort joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to talk about the Spokane Civic Theatre's new production of the Stephen Sondheim–George Furth musical Merrily We Roll Along, which
School May Be Out For Summer But Class Is In Session This July! Welcome to 1989. Westerberg High is terrorized by a shoulder-padded, scrunchie-wearing junta: Heather, Heather and Heather, the hottest and cruelest girls in all of Ohio. But misfit Veronica Sawyer rejects their evil regime for a new boyfriend, the dark sexy stranger J.D.,
Congratulations to the cast of AMADEUS. Thank you all who auditioned! It’s 1823, and a cacophony of scandalous whispers echo through the streets of Vienna. Renowned Italian composer Antonio Salieri flees from claims of murder but has nowhere to hide. While chasing fame and fortune, we learn how Salieri becomes obsessed with the rowdy young
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE The director, music director and leads talk about the studio-sized holiday musical Kathie Doyle-Lipe, Henry McNulty, David Olson and Taylor Wenglikowski joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to fill listeners in on the Spokane Civic Theatre's new production of She Loves Me. The musical opens in the theater's Firth
Congratulations to the cast of GOOD PEOPLE. Thank you all who auditioned! Welcome to Southie, a Boston neighborhood where a night on the town means a few rounds of bingo, where this month’s paycheck covers last month’s bills, and where Margaret Walsh has just been let go from yet another job. Facing eviction and scrambling
Deviating from standard holiday fare, the Spokane Civic Theatre will serve up a holiday mashup of merriment and murder when it presents the regional premiere of “A Sherlock Carol” on Friday. Civic is betting the play that mixes “A Christmas Carol” with “Sherlock Holmes” will be a winning recipe for audiences hungry for a new
If the title of A Sherlock Carol seems at once familiar yet uncanny, that might be intentional. The play by Mark Shanahan takes two of the most popular characters of Victorian fiction, Sherlock Holmes and Ebenezer Scrooge, and creates a Christmas mash-up that riffs on both of their literary origins. Following its well-received off-Broadway premiere in 2021,
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Actors playing Tiny Tim and Sherlock join their director to preview a holiday mystery On this day before Thanksgiving, Mathias Oliver, Jerry Sciarrio and Dallan Starks sat down in the KPBX studio with E.J. Iannelli to discuss the Spokane Civic Theatre’s new production of A Sherlock Carol. The holiday murder
Congratulations to the cast of MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG. Thank you all who auditioned! MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG is a musical about 20 years in the lives of three old friends: Broadway composer-turned-film producer Franklin Shepard, playwright and lyricist Charley Kringas, and theatre critic Mary Flynn. The show charts how their friendship devolves and fractures
Spokane Civic Theatre, in partnership with Gonzaga University’s Dance Department, is proud to present the record-breaking, genre-defying musical CATS, by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Really Useful Group, on the Margot & Robert Ogden Main Stage spring 2024. CATS is set amongst a larger-than-life junkyard playground and is alive with purr-fect
Congratulations to the cast of SHE LOVES ME. Thank you all who auditioned! Meet Amalia and Georg — two parfumerie clerks who aren’t quite the best of friends. Constantly bumping heads while on the job, the sparring coworkers can’t seem to find common ground. But little do they know the anonymous pen pals they have
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE The director and a cast member offer insight into a feminist take on a classic horror tale Chelsea DuVall and Dawn Taylor-Reinhardt of the Spokane Civic Theatre’s new production of Dracula sat down in the KPBX studio with E.J. Iannelli to discuss this feminist reframing of Bram Stoker's Gothic horror novel.
Ethan Williams as Dracula fights with Bridget Pretz as Doctor Van Helsing in Spokane Civic Theatre's production of "Dracula," opening this weekend in the Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre. In the background are Shakyla Garcia Davidson as Mina Harker and Nicholas Roy Morgan III playing Doctor George Seward. Nothing is sweeter than revenge. Just ask playwright
Congratulations to the cast of A SHERLOCK CAROL. Thank you to all who auditioned! Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present the Pacific Northwest premiere of this play, which debuted at New World Stages in 2021, through special arrangement with Broadway Licensing. Reunite with the characters you love from Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur
Few sitcoms from the 1960s resonate today. Such hits from yesteryear as “Gilligan’s Island” and “The Munsters” are dated and predictable. The Addams Family, a fictional family created by American cartoonist Charles Addams, is an exception. The delightfully quirky, old money clan who revel in the macabre lasted only two seasons, 1964-66 on ABC. “The
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Creatives and cast discuss and perform songs from the Broadway black comedy Jayce Fortin, Mathias Oliver, Henry McNulty and Jake Schaefer joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to talk about the Spokane Civic Theatre's upcoming season and its opening show, The Addams Family. The Broadway musical about the famously
Congratulations to the cast of DRACULA, Spokane Civic Theatre's 76th Studio Theatre Season-opening production. Thank you to all who auditioned! In this thrilling new adaptation that bounces between horror and humor, from Transylvania to England and then back again, playwright Kate Hamill boldly reimagines Bram Stoker’s classic tale of vampires and finds new monsters just
Spokane Civic Theatre is overjoyed to share our Season 76 art by local artist Karli Fairbanks! Tickets on sale now | Become a Season 76 member
Congratulations to the cast of THE ADDAMS FAMILY, Spokane Civic Theatre's 76th Main Stage Season opening production. Thank you to all who auditioned! That lovable family of creepy kooks is alive and well and living in their super-spooky mansion in Central Park. The Addams family, led by the elegantly gaunt and seemingly undead Morticia
Duncan Sheik never envisioned writing music for theater. That was so even after befriending playwright Steven Sater a quarter century ago. “I was anti-musical theater at that point,” Sheik said while calling from his Manhattan apartment. “The process of developing shows takes forever. I didn’t want to be part of that.” After achieving commercial success
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast members perform songs from the Alice in Wonderland-inspired musical Sarah Junette Dahmen, Henry McNulty, Jake Schaefer, Jonah Taylor and Taylor Wenglikowski joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to talk about the Spokane Civic Theatre's new production of Alice by Heart ahead of its opening this weekend. Schaefer and Dahmen are
The Addams Family Main Stage Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa Book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice Directed by Jake Schaefer | Music Directed by Henry McNulty Auditions: July 16 - 18, 2023 Performances: September 15 - October 15, 2023 Dracula Studio Theatre Written by Kate Hamill Based on the 1897 novel by Bram Stoker Directed
If "summer theater" conjures images of actors holding skulls aloft and waxing existential in a park, you're in luck. Because this summer's offerings both meet and defy those expectations. You can certainly catch Hamlet or Measure for Measure performed en plein air by Shakespeare pros, but you also have the option of kicking back in an air-conditioned theater and watching
Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present the Pacific Northwest premiere of ALICE BY HEART, through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. From the Tony and Grammy award-winning creators of SPRING AWAKENING, Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, and co-written by Jessie Nelson (WAITRESS), ALICE BY HEART is a touching musical inspired by Alice’s madcap
TA(P) this week profiles the making of the Civic's Charlie & the Chocolate Factory This week we at Spokane Public Radio are excited to present a special episode of the Thursday Arts (P)review. Instead of our usual multi-segment format featuring artists, authors, musicians and other creatives from across the Inland Northwest, we've teamed up with the Inlander to take
(Jerrod Phelps as Willy Wonka on the cover for the Inlander) Everyone knows the story of Charlie, the Golden Ticket and his fateful visit to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. And if you don't, well, I'm sorry. It's a great story. Good news is the Spokane Civic Theatre has the play on its main stage through June
Glinda (Lacey Olson) and the Munchkins from a rehearsal for The Wizard of Oz, 2022 CIVIC ENGAGEMENTS Community theater is special, and in Spokane we're lucky to have multiple such establishments that produce consistently stellar shows, one of which is the SPOKANE CIVIC THEATRE. The Civic recently announced the first slate of shows for its fully loaded
Main Stage THE ADDAMS FAMILY September 15 – October 15, 2023 Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa Book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice The Addams Family features an original story. It’s every parent’s nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what’s worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart
Congratulations to the cast of CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, Spokane Civic Theatre's 75th Season closing production. Thank you to all who auditioned!The confectionary wizard, Willy Wonka, is opening the gates to his mysterious factory…but only to a lucky few. Young Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket winners will embark on a life-changing journey
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Creatives and cast members discuss the jukebox musical about the Four Seasons Jake Schaefer, Henry McNulty, Jonah Taylor and Jameson Elton talked to E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio about a new production of Jersey Boys. The jukebox musical about the Four Seasons opens this Friday on the Spokane Civic
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE The director and cast members of a Bard showcase talk about its ASL component Kearney Jordan, director of the Spokane Civic Theatre Academy, came into the KPBX studio along with Audrey, Connie and Sadie Overstreet to talk with E.J. Iannelli about the academy's production of Shakespeare Beyond Words. More than
July 14 - 23, Main Stage Musical From the Tony and Grammy award-winning creators of SPRING AWAKENING, Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, and co-written by Jessie Nelson (WAITRESS), ALICE BY HEART is a touching musical inspired by Alice’s madcap Adventures in Wonderland. In the rubble of the London Blitz of World War II, Alice Spencer’s budding
NATIONAL PASTIME follows the journeys of Jackie Robinson, the first black player in major league baseball, and Wesley Branch Rickey, the white President and General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, as they shatter the color barrier in 1947. While offering insight into each man's personal struggles, the play traces the evolution of race relations leading
Versatility is the key to making the parody of the Alfred Hitchcock classic “The 39 Steps” work. There are just four actors in the cast of “The 39 Steps,” which runs from Friday to February 12 at the Spokane Civic Theatre, in a show featuring more than 50 characters. “It’s a challenge,” 39 Steps director
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE The director and cast members discuss their reverent parody of Hitchcock's spy film Heather McHenry-Kroetch, Dana Sammond and Dallan Starks joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to give listeners a taste of The 39 Steps, which opens at the Spokane Civic Theatre this Friday (Jan. 20). This 2005 adaptation
LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE Talked to the director and some of the castmates of Photograph 51 – a humorous and moving portrait of Rosalind Franklin, one of the great female scientists of the twentieth century, and her fervid drive to map the contours of the DNA molecule. A chorus of physicists relives the
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director Susan Hardie and her cast preview a play about an unsung science pioneer Susan Hardie, Joshua Baig, Ryan Wasson, Nicholas Roy Morgan III and Jeffrey Phillips Christiansen talked to E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio about Photograph 51, Anna Ziegler's semi-fictionalized play about the pioneering researcher Rosalind Franklin. Hardie
The story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons unfolds in this behind-the-music story of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history will take you from the streets of Newark to the heights of stardom. Follow the incredible journey of four guys bound by one dream—to make it to
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast members preview Karen Zacharías' play about neighborly disputes Marlee Andrews and Deborah Marlowe, both of whom are performing in a new production of Native Gardens at the Spokane Civic Theatre, joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to talk about Karen Zacharías' play. The play hinges on a clash between
Hitchcock meets hilarity in this madcap comedic thriller. Richard Hannay is an everyday bloke looking for a little more excitement in his life. But he gets more than he bargains for when he is unwittingly plunged into the world of spies, agents and espionage. Now it’s up to him, with the help of a mysterious
A humorous and moving portrait of Rosalind Franklin, one of the great female scientists of the twentieth century, and her fervid drive to map the contours of the DNA molecule. A chorus of physicists relives the chase, revealing the unsung achievements of this trail-blazing, fiercely independent woman. Congratulations to the cast of Photograph 51! Rosalind Franklin: Chelsea
Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, it’s time to deck the halls and take in some of the sights and sounds of the season. From classic plays and stirring music to glittery lights and cultural events, there’s a little something for everyone. ‘A Christmas Carol’ Opens Friday, continues Thursdays-Sundays through Dec. 18 at Spokane Civic
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Co-directors and cast members on what's familiar and unexpected about this show Kearney Jordan, Bryan Durbin, Ruby Krajic, Bill Marlowe and Gary Pierce entered the KPBX studio with E.J. Iannelli to provide details on the Spokane Civic Theatre's new production of the holiday classic A Christmas Carol, which opens this
SLEIGH BELLS RING Ellen Travolta is celebrating her 10th annual holiday show at the Coeur d'Alene Resort by collecting some of her favorite material from her hit productions of Christmases past, such as "Christmas with a Twist" and "Christmas Miracles." It's being billed as "THE BEST OF CHRISTMAS." "I call it 'best of,' but I think
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE The playwright and director of an all-new play discuss the importance of feedback Playwright Bryan Harnetiaux, whose new play Exile opens this weekend at the Spokane Civic Theatre, sat down in the KPBX studio with the play's director, Jerry Sciarrio, to discuss the work with SPR's E.J. Iannelli. Both the playwright and
Pablo, a high-powered lawyer, and doctoral candidate Tania, his very pregnant wife, are realizing the American dream when they purchase a house next door to community stalwarts, Virginia and Frank. But when a friendly disagreement about the lay of the land escalates into a backyard brawl, cultures collide and mudslinging ensues…literally. Congratulations to the cast of
Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to partner with Spokane Playwrights Laboratory in presenting the first workshop of their 2022 - 2023 season: THE NAVIGATOR, written and composed by Sarah Dahmen and Henry McNulty, Spokane Civic Theatre's Music Director. This sweeping tale follows Anne Morrow and Charles Lindbergh as they navigate life’s triumphs and tragedies under the crushing
Transporting audiences to a bitterly chilly Christmas Eve night, a hard-hearted miser is visited by four ghosts who take him on a journey to worlds past, present and future. Can Ebenezer Scrooge save himself from the consequences of a lifetime of fear and selfishness, once he is confronted with the full arc of his lonely
Exile follows Augie, now retired military, as he returns to his hometown for the first time in 40 years - having been driven from the family home shortly after graduation by intolerable conditions. Congratulations to the cast of Exile! Augie: Dan Bisbee April: Caryn Hoaglund Frankie: Doug Dawson Young Frankie: Jameson Elton Jake: Kelly Hauenstein Ruth:
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast and creatives talk about Joshua Harmon's "New York comedy" Sarah Dahmen, Matthew Pope, Karen Brathovde and Preston Loomer visited with E.J. Iannelli in the SPR studio to chat about Significant Other by playwright Joshua Harmon. Dahmen is directing a new production of Harmon's romantic comedy, which centers on young, single
Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Significant Other” explores the societal pressure to find a life partner when finding that partner, however much you might want to, proves beyond your control. Sarah Dahmen knew very little about the show when earlier this year she agreed to direct it . Nonetheless, it quickly found its way into
THROUGH OCT. 2 ADMISSIONS Sherri Rosen-Mason is the head of the admissions department at a New England boarding school. Over the past 15 years, and with the support of her husband, Tom, who also just happens to be the headmaster, she's succeeded in increasing the school's diversity quotient to 18 percent from 6 percent. But their
Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “The Wizard of Oz” opens this weekend. Based on L. Frank Baum’s classic tale, “The Wizard of Oz” features iconic music from the 1939 film of the same name. Directed by Kathie Doyle-Lipe with music director Henry McNulty, the stage adaptation follows a young girl named Dorothy as she travels
The Spokane Civic Theatre is kicking off its 75th season with The Wizard of Oz. More than just an enduring audience favorite, the main-stage musical is also a tribute to the theater's long history. The last time it was produced by the Civic was in 1997, which happened to be the theater's 50th anniversary season. Though she's
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast and creatives from The Wizard of Oz talk about Civic's 75th season opener Along with director Kathie Doyle-Lipe and music director Henry McNulty, actors Nicole Ostlie, Lacey Bohnet-Olson and Jameson Elton joined E.J. Iannelli in the SPR studio and performance space ahead of opening night for The Wizard of Oz at the Spokane
Jordan Berman would love to be in love, but that’s easier said than done. So until he meets Mr. Right, he wards off lonely nights with his trio of close girlfriends. But as singles’ nights turn into bachelorette parties, Jordan discovers that the only thing harder than finding love is supporting the loved ones around you when they
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide Congratulations to the cast of The
Spokane Civic Theatre is grateful to, yet again, collaborate with Chris Bovey for Season 75's original show art. Thank you Vintage Print + Neon! Memberships on sale now Single Tickets on sale July 5 Click here for show details, membership levels and more The Box Office is open Tuesday - Friday, 12 - 6PM: 509-325-2507
Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Murder on the Orient Express” is the kind of show you’ll want to see twice and then run back to the Agatha Christie novel for more. Caught in a snowstorm, the Orient Express – unusually crowded for the time of year – slides to an abrupt halt just minutes past
Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express has been adapted to TV, radio, film and even computer games since it was first published in 1934, but it took more than 80 years for an official version to reach the stage. With the blessing of the author's estate, American playwright Ken Ludwig, best known for farces like Lend Me
Directing at Spokane Civic Theatre again for the first time since March 2019, Heather McHenry-Kroetch is glad to be returning with the cast of “Murder on the Orient Express.” “I’m excited to do it,” she said. Especially now, she explained, you never feel like you’re dragging yourself to rehearsal because you know how lucky you
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director Heather McHenry-Kroetch and Actor Bryce Clifton visited the KPBX studio Wednesday to talk with Verne Windham about their upcoming show, "Murder on the Orient Express." "Murder on the Orient Express" premieres this Friday, May 27, at 7:30 on the Margot and Robert Ogden Main Stage. Click here to learn more.
How do you tell the truth? Can cold hard facts really tell a story in a meaningful way? Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “The Lifespan of a Fact,” a one-act play by Jeremy Kareken, David Murrell and Gordon Farrell, asks exactly that. Based on a true story, the play follows Jim Fingal (Nicholas Griep), a
Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to present its celebrated Playwrights’ Forum Festival, which, since 1983, has showcased new one-acts by playwrights from across the region. The festival is performed in two separate sets on alternating days. PLAYWRIGHTS Tristen Canfield, Rachael Carnes, Jean Hardie, Bryan Harnetiaux, Pamela Kingsley, Paul Lewis, Mica Pointer, Natalie Schmidt, Scott Stolnack,
These are the facts: In 2003, a writer named John D'Agata submitted an essay to Harper's Magazine. The piece centered largely on Levi Presley, a 16-year-old boy who had leaped from the observation deck of the Stratosphere Hotel in Las Vegas the previous year. Presley's suicide served as a case in point for D'Agata's broader examination of the
How do you tell the truth? Are cold hard facts enough to get the whole story across? Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “The Lifespan of a Fact,” a one-act play by Jeremy Kareken, David Murrell and Gordon Farrell, opens in the Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre on Friday at 7:30 p.m. “I think it’s really
Three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author Thornton Wilder began his storied career as a novelist before branching out to short stories, screenplays, and dramatic works. At first glance, his play Our Town appears to be a simple, innocuous portrait of life in the small New Hampshire town of Grover’s Corners. But as time passes in the three acts—an ordinary day, a wedding,
In 1997, 50 years after Jackie Robinson broke the color line in major league baseball, Spokane Civic Theatre Playwright-in-Residence, Bryan Harnetiaux, was working on a new play for Civic's 1997 - 1998 Studio Theatre Season. In the midst of this work, he picked up, for casual reading, Arnold Rampersad's Jackie Robinson: A Biography. This book "grabbed him
Main Stage September 16 - October 16, 2022 Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum's beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to
Play Video SPOKANE, Wash. — Live performance is back at the Spokane Civic Theatre. Nothing is going to rain on this cast’s parade as they perform the hit “Funny Girl.” It’s an adaption of the 1964 Broadway musical and 1968 film about an entertainer named Fanny Brice who defies the odds in her rise to
REGIONAL PREMIERE Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is a plot-twist masterpiece that has thrilled mystery lovers from television, radio, film, and now theatre. Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger
Set in New York City, before and following WWI, “Funny Girl” is a semibiographical musical account of the life of “Ziegfeld Follies” star Fanny Brice and her loving but tempestuous marriage to Nicky Arnstein. Directed by Jake Schaefer with musical direction by Henry McNulty, Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Funny Girl” opens Friday at 7:30
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Music director Henru McNalty and actress Kalla Mort visited the KPBX studio today to talk with Verne Windham about their upcoming show, "Funny Girl." "Funny Girl" runs April 1-24 on the Margot and Robert Ogden Main Stage at the Spokane Civic Theater. Visit the Spokane Civic Theater website for more information.
REGIONAL PREMIERE Fresh out of college, Jim Fingal’s job is to fact-check articles for one of the best magazines in the country. His boss has given him a big assignment: to apply his skill to a groundbreaking piece by author John D’Agata. Fingal has one huge problem — D’Agata made up a lot of his
Spokane Civic Theatre’s opening night of “Plaza Suite” was a success, to say the least. Directed by Civic veteran Troy Nickerson, the play is funny, sad and often borders on uncomfortable to watch, but considering the material, it’s supposed to be. Written by four-time Tony Award winner Neil Simon, “Plaza Suite” follows a trio of
Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Plaza Suite” opens this weekend in the Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre. Written by four-time Tony Award winner Neil Simon, “Plaza Suite” follows a trio of couples as each occupies a particular suite at the Plaza Hotel. Sam and Karen’s stay, much like their long-suffering marriage, can’t seem to end
For close to four decades, playwright Neil Simon — balding, bulb-nosed, bespectacled — so dominated American theater that he became an unlikely object of desire. In her 2021 memoir Going There, journalist Katie Couric recalled setting out with the express intention of seducing him at a press conference for his 1985 film The Slugger's Wife. At the time
Off to the races before the lights have even dimmed, Spokane Civic Theatre’s “The Play That Goes Wrong” is hilarious, charming and absurd from start to finish. Directed by Jean Hardie and written by Henry Lewis, Henry Shields and Jonathan Sayer, “The Play That Goes Wrong” follows a group of actors from the fictitious Cornley
Spokane Civic Theatre returns with The Play That Goes Wrong! Welcome to opening night of the Cornley Drama Society's newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can't play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines),
The last two years have been full of drama. A deadly virus. Crushing social isolation. The complete upending of life as we know it. It’s been the kind of drama that nobody wanted. But this weekend, the right kind of drama returned. After a two-year hiatus, the Spokane Civic Theatre had its first indoor, in-person
After a nearly two-year hiatus brought on by the pandemic,Spokane Civic Theatre is resuming live productions with the regional premiere of The Play That Goes Wrong, a comedy that promises exactly what its title says. Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, the play captures the opening performance of the Cornley Drama Society's The Murder
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE After a long pandemic absence, Spokane Civic Theatre returns to the stage with "The Play That Goes Wrong," directed by local theatre stalwart, Jean Hardie. Verne Windham talks to Jean Hardie about the production and the revival of live performance. "The Play That Goes Wrong" opens Friday, January 28,
In the Ziegfeld Follies, Hollywood films and on radio, Fanny Brice was one of the most celebrated entertainers of her time. With unique humor, talent and chutzpah, young Fanny, who “isn’t pretty,” defies the odds and becomes one of the greatest stars of her generation. Fanny’s rise to super-stardom and her turbulent romance with professional
Firth J Chew Studio Theatre Update Revised Plaza Suite Performance Dates Being that Spokane Civic Theatre is a community facing, volunteer driven organization, and in response to the current COVID-19 surge that our area is experiencing, the reopening of our celebrated, 96-seat, black box theater, the Firth J Chew Studio Theatre, has been moved to Friday, March 11,
Hilarity abounds in this portrait of three couples successively occupying a suite at the Plaza. Karen and Sam are a long-married pair whose relationship may be headed for an early checkout. Muriel and Jesse are former high school sweethearts who seem destined for an extended stay. And Norma and Roy are the mother and father
Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north, it’s almost not in the United States. It’s almost in Canada. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways.
REGIONAL PREMIERE Welcome to opening night of the Cornley Drama Society’s newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), the accident-prone thespians battle against all odds
The next in Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Civic Presents” lineup, actor Patrick Treadway’s “Mark Twain” is a one-man, staged retelling of the eponymous writer’s life. Starring and created by Treadway, the show incorporates excerpts of Twain’s writing as his life story unfolds onstage. Filmed over the course of two performances on the main stage at the
Spokane Civic Theatre is ecstatic to debut our Welcome Back artwork by the wonderful Chris Bovey!
Memberships available November 16, 2021 Single Tickets available December 1, 2021 MARGOT AND ROBERT ODGEN MAIN STAGE January 28 - February 20, 2022 By Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields Welcome to opening night of the Cornley Drama Society’s newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to
While the COVID-19 pandemic has canceled countless events this year, event organizers have made their creativity clear, either figuring out how to present events virtually or rework them so they can continue safely in person. And the holiday season is no different. This month, dozens of holiday traditions have been reinvented so they can be
Dec. 11 A CHRISTMAS CAROL RADIO PLAY University of Idaho isn't the only theatrical outlet producing its own unique take on A Christmas Carol. Spokane Civic Theatre, one of the Inland Northwest's mainstays for great onstage entertainment, is producing a version of the Charles Dickens story and broadcasting it as an old-fashioned radio play, using nothing but
Minneapolis playwright Barbara Field’s adaptations of A Christmas Carol are part of Spokane Civic Theatre’s DNA. We first produced her rich and delightful take on Mr. Dicken’s tale in the late 1970s, under the artful direction of the legendary Dorothy Darby Smith, one of our Founders. Dorothy, and later others, would continue to direct Barbara’s adaptations for
AUDITIONS: A Christmas Carol, Radio Play Auditions November 19 & 20, 6:30 PM "So as Tiny Tim observed, God bless us, every one." Transporting audiences to a bitterly chilly Christmas Eve night, a hard-hearted miser is visited by four ghosts who take him on a journey to worlds past, present and future. Can Ebenezer Scrooge
CIVIC PRESENTS Community Voices For the second installment of Civic Presents, Spokane Civic Theatre’s virtual Main Stage, the theme is inspired by the foundation of our organization: community and stories. Whether you’re an actor or singer, connect with friends or regular collaborators and select a scene or song with a message that either speaks to
CIVIC PRESENTS Young Artist Showcase When the world paused in March, so did Spokane Civic Theatre productions and operations. No auditions, classes, performances, production meetings, or rehearsals. Although currently unable to produce shows and provide performing arts training, we are ecstatic to announce Civic Presents — Civic’s virtual Main Stage, a streaming celebration of our
This weekend, Spokane Civic Theatre will open its studio production of “Cabaret,” John Kander and Fred Ebb’s beloved and societally confrontational tour through the seedy, vaudevillian nightlife of 1930s Berlin. Set in the aftermath of Germany’s Weimar Republic, “Cabaret” is based on John Van Druten’s play “I Am a Camera” adapted from Christopher Isherwood’s 1939
The Firth J. Chew studio in the lower level of the Spokane Civic Theatre has always been a small space with big possibilities. Over the years its interior has been rearranged for performances that faced north and east, for stages in a three-sided thrust format or in the round, and for players entering and exiting from
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Heather McHenry-Kroetch, Director of Spokane Civic Theatre's new production of "Cabaret," swings by the studio to discuss the show. Also in the studio are actors Aubree Pederson (Sally Bowles) and Rebecca Craven (Fraulein Schneider), and Music Director Henry McNulty with Tonya Ballman (Assistant Music Director) with a preview of
A wacky ensemble, stellar musical numbers and one man playing eight characters throughout the show. Those are a few of my many takeaways from Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.” This is the regional premiere of the Tony award- winning musical, which won best musical in 2013 and is
Congratulations to the cast of the Academy's Twelfth Night Viola: Amelia Berry Sailor/Officer/Ensemble: Amelia Shriver Curio: Brenna Craven Sir Andrew Aguecheek: Clayton Sanchez Sebastian: Elias Ruben Maria: Emma Hendricks Valentine: Georgia Kettrick Feste: Joseph Selle Malvolio: Koby Hawson Olivia: Lia Goodrich Fabiana: Lily Johnson Sir Toby Belch: Nicholas Morgan Antonio/Captain: Ryan Wasson Duke Orsino: Thomas Luce Newsboy/Ensemble: Wyatt
A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder is no place for those of weaker constitution and who may be faint of heart. It says as much in its opening song. One reason why sensitive souls might be better off departing is that this particular musical features death. Lots of it. A reverend. A rich playboy and his
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Troy Nickerson, Director of Spokane Civic Theatre's production of "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder" visits the studio to discuss the musical. Also in the studio are actors Emily Jones, Joseph Hall, and Music Director Henry McNulty, with a preview of the show. "A Gentleman's Guide to Love
Congratulations to the cast of The Humans Deirde Blake: Melody Deatherage Fiona "Momo" Blake: Mary Jo Rudolf Richard Saad: Kyle Kahklen Aimee Blake: Caryn Hoaglund Brigid Blake: Josephine Keefe Erik Blake: Ron Ford Written by Stephen Karam Directed by Dawn Taylor Reinhardt 2016 Tony Award Winner, Best Play Something so small can feel so vast. A
They say it takes a village to raise a child, and, though he’s not a child, it sure has taken a village to raise Garry Essendine, the man at the forefront of Noël Coward’s “Present Laughter,” which opened at Spokane Civic Theatre on Jan. 17. Essendine (Patrick McHenry-Kroetch) has built a reputation as a matinee
A new year means new theatrical productions are opening on four area stages this week. Stage Left Theater, Spokane Civic Theatre, the First Interstate Center for the Arts and Lake City Playhouse will open “Mandelstam,” “Present Laughter,” “An American in Paris” and “Fun Home,” respectively. Read on to learn more about each production. ‘Present
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's latest production of the season is Noel Coward's "Present Laughter." Director Melody Deatherage visits the studio with actors Patrick McHenry-Kroetch (Garry Essendine), Elisabet Edwards (Liz Essendine), and Phedre Burney-Peters (Monica Reed) to discuss the show and perform a scene or two. "Present Laughter" opens Friday, January
Spokane is kicking off 2020 on a high note with plenty of theater, comedy and dance shows happening in the coming months. Jan. 3-4: A month before comedian Ari Shaffir records his next special, “Ari Shaffir: Jew,” in New York in February, Spokane audiences get a sneak peek at the special as Shaffir headlines the Spokane
In 2019, stages big and small showcased the incredible talent of local performers and national and international acts, and Spokane audiences supported theater, comedy, dance and more. Here’s a look back at some of the events that wowed us and made us laugh, think and maybe even cry in 2019. In January, Spokane Civic Theatre opened
Congratulations to the cast of Cabaret Emcee: Mathias Oliver Sally Bowles: Aubree Peterson Cliff: Joshua Baig Fraulein Schneider: Rebecca Craven Heir Schultz: Kim Berg Fraulein Kost: Karlin Kahler Ernst: Chad Herrmann Male Ensemble: Dylan Brown Jay Patrick Emmingham Nicholas Roy Morgan III Kit Kat Girls: Marlee Andrews Elizabeth Martin Brianna McCracken Torey Rousten Dana Sammond Kimberly
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Kearney Jordan, Spokane Civic Theatre's Academy Director, visits the studio to discuss her production of the classic holiday play-within-a-play "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." Joining her in the conversation are actors Millie Paine, Josephine Kahler, and Audrey Overstreet. This production is SOLD OUT. For more information on Spokane Civic
Congratulations to the cast of A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder Monty Navarro: Joseph Hall The D’Ysquith Family: Todd Kehne Sibella Hallward: Emily Jones Phoebe D’Ysquith: Lexie Lucassen Miss Shingle: Mary Starkey Female Ensemble: Sarah Hull, Kristen Nauditt, Tamara Schupman Male Ensemble: Dakota Lee Moses, Patrick Treadway A regional premiere, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder is an award-winning (Best Musical,
Riverfront Park is doing its part to make the holiday season bright in downtown Spokane. Today the city will light up a 63-foot spruce in the park. The free celebration starts at 4 p.m. with a visit from Santa, children’s crafts and performances from groups like Spokane Civic Theatre, Company Ballet School and Spokane Symphony
1. Take a cruise to the North Pole, via Lake Coeur d'Alene 2. Visit the Extreme Team's holiday light display for Children's Hospital in Spokane's Cowley Park 3. Get in line to see the gorgeous Gaiser Conservatory in Manito Park decorated with 40,000 lights for the holidays! Runs December 13-22nd 4. Watch Riverfront Park light up at the Numerica
Holiday lights are strung up all over the city, and Christmas shows are lighting up local stages. Just this week, the offerings run the gamut from the circus and ballet to stage and screen classics, including the sold-out screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” featuring star Chevy Chase tonight at the Fox. Here are some
Find out the hottest events around Spokane during this week's Tourist in Your Town! Cirque Dreams Holidaze Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. First Interstate Center Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a holiday special for the whole family! Holidaze is a mixture of Cirque adventure and Broadway music. It's a Wonderful Life Nov. 29 - Dec. 22, Thursdays
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's holiday season productions open with an adaptation of the classic film "It's a Wonderful Life." Director Marianne McLaughlin and actors Megs Levi (Mary) and Joshua Baig (George) visit the studio to talk about the production and to perform a preview. "It's a Wonderful Life" opens Friday,
NOV. 29-DEC. 22: IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE During the holiday season, it's not uncommon for folks to step back and take some time to reflect on the things they're grateful for. And few stories are better at prompting that exercise in gratitude than It's a Wonderful Life. This is the story of small-town everyman George
Andrew Start is no stranger to working in minimalism. Having previously directed “The Flick” for Spokane Civic Theatre, Start again brings his audience an intimate portrayal of humanity, this time marked with a tense and resolute realism. “This Is Our Youth,” written by Kenneth Lonergan, is sodden with nostalgia, but with the kind that’s heavier
Congratulations to the cast of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Bradley Family Grace Bradley: Audrey Overstreet Bob Bradley: Barry Pfundt Beth Bradley: Josephine Kahler Charlie Bradley: Connie Mack Overstreet The Herdman Family Ralph: Hudson Kahler Imogene: Millie Paine Leroy: Matthew Brauhn Claude: Millie Kettrick Ollie: Sadie Overstreet Gladys: Elise Gerhardt Alice: Olivia McNiece Maxine: Amelia
Director Andrew Start’s last play at Spokane Civic Theatre, Annie Baker’s “The Flick,” found him directing three actors – two men and a woman – in their roles as misfit ushers in a rundown theater. Throughout the play, the three leads chat while sweeping up popcorn and running a film projector. And … that’s about
Though it has the unmistakable ring of a declaration, This Is Our Youth treats its title more like a question than a statement. Its three characters — two boys, one girl, all in their late teens and early 20s — are aimless and uncertain. They're unsure of who they are, who they want to be and how they
Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest impact. From Friday to Dec. 8 in the Firth J Chew Studio Theatre at the Spokane Civic Theatre three actors will take the stage to play out an evening in their apartment for the production of Kenneth Lonergan’s “This Is Our Youth.” In the Broadway and West End
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Andrew Start, Director of Spokane Civic Theatre's production of Kenneth Lonergan's "This Is Our Youth," visits the studio to discuss the play, which centers around young adults in 1980s Manhattan. Also in the studio are Denny Taylor (Dennis), Jacob Carruthers (Warren), and Elizabeth Martin (Jessica) who play the three
Congratulations to the cast of Present Laughter Garry Essendine: Patrick McHenry-Kroetch Liz Essendine: Elisabet Edwards Monica Reed: Phedre Burney-Peters Daphne Stillington: Abby Constable Fred: Paul J. Watts Roland Maule: Kaylan Martin Morris Dixon: Robert Tombari Hugo Lyppiatt: R. Scott Cantrell Joanna Lyppiatt: Rebecca Craven Miss Erikson: Eve Luppert Lady Saltburn: Mary Jo Rudolf Present
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's latest production taps local history to tell the story of the Hutton Settlement children's home in Spokane Valley. Writer/director Tim Rarick, actors Tom McArthur (Judge Leavy) and Michael Schmidt (Gus Paulson), and Hutton Settlement Director of Community Relations & Communications, Jessica Laughery, discuss the Settlement's history
Congratulations to the cast of It's a Wonderful Life George Bailey: Joshua Baig Uncle Billy: Robert Maruca Mrs. Bailey: Deborah Brooks Cousin Eustace: Billy Taylor Harry Bailey: Jozef Sloma Violet Bick: Francis Morgan Bert/Joe: Jeff Bryan Ernie: Gatieth Nazario-Geelan Mr. Martini: Bryan Durbin Sam Wainwright: Kelly Hauenstein Freddie: Koby Hawsen Maria Martini: Carolina Bufford Dr.
Congratulations to the cast of A Place to Call Home Levi “Al” Hutton: Marek Nelson May Arkwright Hutton: Melody Deatherage Gus Paulsen: Michael Schmidt Bertrand McDougall: William Bancroft Bernice Taylor: Elaina DeJong David Glasgow: Jeffrey Ridlington Frank Obermuller: Daniel Edmiston DC Corbin: JP O’Shaughnessy Judge Leavy: Tom McArthur Agnes Cowley Paine: Lynn Noel Laura Northup: Kalynn
Exile While many folks will instinctively be drawn to Funny Girl, the renowned show-stopping musical that will be running upstairs on the Spokane Civic Theatre’s main stage a few days after this play’s run ends, Exile stands out for being its polar opposite. This smaller-scale studio production is an original play by the Civic’s resident
They say “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” But how should you feel when someone steals your material and presents it as their own? That was a common occurrence when William Shakespeare was making a name for himself as a playwright, according to Susan Hardie. Fellow playwrights, Hardie said, would attend productions of Shakespeare’s
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre’s Susan Hardie visits the studio to discuss “The Book of Will,” Lauren Gunderson’s play about a pivotal moment in Elizabethan history when the plays of William Shakespeare could have been lost to posterity. Also in the studio are actors Jamie Flannery (John Heminges), Bridget Pretz (Alice
If you’re interested in seeing the rising stars of local theater, those who will be gracing stages for years to come, Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Matilda: The Musical” is a great place to start. Young performers stole the show, which has all the charm of the Roald Dahl novel on which it’s based and
Highlights from the stage Sept. 27-Oct. 20 THE BOOK OF WILL Just when you thought everything about Shakespeare had already been written, along comes a play that shines a light on a new aspect of his legacy. In fact, The Book of Will shows that there might not have been much of a legacy at all
The Spokane Civic Theatre is known for its phenomenal production. It has this innate ability to create shows with a completely local cast and crew that mesmerize audiences and create a sense of professional theater similar to the shows that come to the First Interstate Center for the Arts. “Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical” is
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's Kathie Doyle-Lipe, Director of "Matilda the Musical," visits the studio with actors Eleanor Weitz (Matilda), Shelby Freesmeyer (Miss Honey), and Doug Dawson (Miss Agatha Trunchbull), and the Civic's Music Director, Henry McNulty, with a preview of the production. "Matilda the Musical" has performances Thursdays through Saturdays
Congratulations to the cast of This is Our Youth Dennis Ziegler: Denny Pham Warren Straub: Jacob Carruthers Jessica Goldman: Elizabeth Martin This is Our Youth is a drama by Kenneth Lonergan, directed by Andrew Start.. November 15 - December8, 2019 Firth J Chew Studio Theatre Tickets are now available at the Box Office (Tues -
Like the Roald Dahl book on which it's based, Matilda the Musical is the tale of a highly intelligent little girl with a penchant for practical jokes and, at least briefly, the uncanny ability to move things with her mind. And, just like its source material — not to mention pretty much all of Dahl's most famous
September marks the beginning of school, yes, but it also marks the beginning of theater season. Case in point: Four area theaters – Ignite Community Theatre, Spokane Civic Theatre, Lake City Playhouse and Red Bird Theater – are kicking off their 2019-20 seasons this week. The theaters are bringing “See How They Run,” “Matilda: The
Congratulations to the cast of The Book of Will John Heminges: Jamie Flanery Henry Condell: Kelly Hauenstein Richard Burbage: Damon Abdallah Elizabeth Condell: Tami Rotchford Rebecca Heminges: Rebecca Craven Ralph Crane: Gary Pierce Alice Heminges: Bridget Pretz Isaac Jaggard: Eli Drushella Boy Hamlet: Jaron Fuglie Ben Johnson: William Marlowe The Book of Will - a look
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Kearney Jordan, Academic Director of Spokane Civic Theatre, brings a preview of this summer's Civic Academy Musical Production (C.A.M.P), the musical, "13." Henry McNulty, Music Director, accompanies cast members Jameson Elton, Addit Dibble, Delaney Kahler, Arlo McGowan, Tyler McCabe, Erik Wolfrum, Max Petrusek, and Leilani Santiago, performing two songs
Congratulations to the cast of 13! Evan: Jameson Elton Patrice: Leilani Santiago Archie: Arlo McGowan Kendra: Adeline Dibble Lucy: Delaney Kahler Brett: Erik Wolfrum Eddie/Rabbi: Tyler McCabe Malcolm: Max Petrusek Cassie: Olivia McNiece Charlotte: Mary Davidow Molly: Avah McConnell Richie/Rabbi Chorus: Elias Baldwin Bonney Simon/ Rabbi Chorus: Murphy Kettrick Ensemble: Kelson Cubley Emma Hendricks Josephine Kahler
In the program for Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of “Spring Awakening,” the phone numbers for a domestic violence helpline, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Trevor Project are listed above a warning to audiences. “ ‘Spring Awakening’ contains serious material that may be inappropriate for some audience members due to strong content, language, sexual
LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW HERE Hear Henry discuss his current play "Spring Awakening," whether Spokane is a theater town, and what instrument unites the play's string quartet and punk rock elements. For tickets and more information, visit the website spokanecivictheatre.com/productions/spring-awakening/ Performance Dates: July 12 – 28, 2019 Ticket Prices: All Ages: $25 “Spring Awakening” contains
Congratulations to the cast of Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical Matilda Wormwood: Eleanor Weitz Miss Agatha Trunchbull: Doug Dawson Miss Honey: Shelby Fressmeyer Mr. Wormwood: Michael Hynes Mrs. Wormwood: Colleen Kirsten Michael Wormwood: Matthew Brauhn Mrs. Phelps: Juana Cabbage Bruce: Brody Else Lavender: Teagan Reese Ensemble: Abbey Andersen Piper Burney Brendan Burns Emily Cabbage Nate Edmons Aiden
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's summer season opens with "Spring Awakening," a musical based on the 1891 German play of the same name by Frank Wedekind, and with contemporary words and music by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik. Jake Schaefer (who co-directs the production with Sarah Dahmen), cast members Aubrey Peterson
Whether you love grooving out in the sun or prefer to be entertained in the comfort of an air conditioned venue, summer entertainment season in the Inland Northwest has something that fits the bill. Below are just a handful of the noteworthy events taking place over the next few months. Northern Quest Outdoor Summer Concerts
Congratulations to the cast of Tom Sawyer Tom Sawyer: Carsten Davis Huck Finn: Murphy Kettrick Becky Thatcher: Josephine Kahler Aunt Polly: Rosy Rodden Cousin Sid: David Mannino Cousin Mary: Mairead Kahler Ben Rogers: Millie Kettrick Joe Harper/ Alfred: Amelia Berry Injun Joe/ Deacon: Nathanael Gilstrap Muff Potter/ Samuel: Paul Sciarrio Judge Thatcher: Abigail Harget Imogene/ Suzy:
Congratulations to the cast of Spring Awakening! Wendla: Elizabeth Martin Melchior: Aaron Skipper Martha: Kalla Mort Moritz: Jonah Taylor Ilse: Aubree Peterson Hanschen/Rupert: Jacob Carruthers Ernst/Reinhold: Dylan Brown Anna: Brianna McCracken Thea: Micaela Ackermann Georg/Dieter: Matthew Gerard Otto/Ulbrecht: Peyton Torchio The Adult Woman: Sarah Dahmen The Adult Men: Danny Anderson Thank you to everyone who auditioned!
We are proud to announce our 2019 / 2020 Season directors. MAIN STAGE Roald Dahl's MATILDA The Musical: Kathie Doyle-Lipe IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: Marianne McLaughlin A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER: Troy Nickerson THE HUMANS: Dawn Taylor Reinhardt FUNNY GIRL: Jake Schaefer STUDIO THEARE THE BOOK OF WILL: Susan Hardie THIS IS
“Young Frankenstein,” the musical, is based on the movie of the same name, which was directed by Mel Brooks and written by Brooks and Gene Wilder, who starred in the film. A parody of horror films, it’s no surprise that the film is quite silly and over the top. Luckily for fans, and for those
It’s not at all unusual to see Henry McNulty’s name in a theater program. He is, after all, the resident music director at Spokane Civic Theatre and a talented performer who has appeared in productions like “Forever Plaid,” “Million Dollar Quartet” and “The Music Man” at Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre. But what is unusual is
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein famously sprang from a private literary contest between Shelley, her husband Percy and Lord Byron to see who could write the best horror story. In the 201 years since it was published, her novel has gone on to be as misunderstood and misrepresented as the monster at its center. Popular imagination's green, lumbering, square-shouldered brute
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE In this Spokane Civic Theatre production of the new Mel Brooks musical, the grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced "Fronk-en-steen"), inherits his family's estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor, and a leggy lab assistant, Inga, Frederick finds himself
It’s an interesting experience to, while watching a play, enjoy the actors but dislike the characters they play. While watching Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of John Guare’s “The House of Blue Leaves,” directed by Heather McHenry-Kroetch, I had one of of those experiences. “The House of Blue Leaves” takes place over the course of a
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Actors Annie Altevers (as Bunny), Rick Rivera (as Artie), and Elisabet Edwards (as Bananas) visited the studio to discuss Spokane Civic Theatre's production "House of Blue Leaves," a black comedy about Artie Shaugnessy, a songwriter with visions of glory who toils by day as a zookeeper, and suffers
Congratulations to the casts of the Playwrights' Forum Festival! CUTTING EDGE BEAUTY Playwright: Dacey Else* Director: Dominick Betts Cast: Elias Baldwin-Bonney, Olivia Davies, Jameson Elton, Savannah Esco, Delaney Kahler, Lily Savage, Emma York Synopsis: A raging satire centered around a teen web channel and it’s cult following. EGGS OVER EASY Playwright: Rich Rubin Director: Tom Armitage
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director Jean Hardie, Music Director Annie Flood and actors Bill Garry and Karlin Kahler from Spokane Civic Theatre voyaged to our station alongside playwright/lyricist Ed Bryan and composer William Berry to introduce their new creation: “Moby Dick – A Musical.” This original song-filled adaptation of the classic novel by Herman Melville tells the
To those who have tried and failed to read “Moby Dick,” director Jean Hardie understands the struggle. An English major in college, Hardie said she was never able to finish the nearly 400-page novel. “I refer to it sometimes as a book that everybody starts and very few finish,” she said with a laugh. So
Opening night comes with enough pressure as it is, but the opening night of the regional premiere of a production must amplify that feeling. Spokane Civic Theatre took on the challenge, and succeeded, with its newest main stage production, the regional premiere of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” directed by Melody
A flower shop employee. A shopkeeper’s naive assistant. A clumsy jack of all trades. The younger self of a seasoned performer. University High School senior Nicholas Griep, 18, has played a variety of roles in his few short years as an actor, but none have been as challenging as that of Christopher John Francis Boone
WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE A unique play is opening this weekend at the Spokane Civic Theatre. Listen in to find out why you’ll want to see this show. Here is the link to get your tickets: http://spokanecivictheatre.com/
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE With their interview this morning, director Melody Deatherage and actors Nick Griep and Jeremy Urann piqued our interest in Spokane Civic Theatre’s latest production: “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” Adapted from the award-winning novel of the same name, it follows a brilliant 15-year-old boy with
Congratulations to the cast of Young Frankenstein! Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: Henry McNulty The Monster: Drake Haren Igor: Chris Hansen Inga: Aubree Peterson Elizabeth Banning: Christina Coty Frau Blücher: Rebecca Craven Inspector Hand Kemp: Rob Reiss The Hermit: Kim Berg Dr. Victor Von Frankenstein: Doug Dawson Ensemble: Jessii Arp Joshua Baig Alex Barclay Dominick Betts Dylan Brown
We are so excited to present the 2019 - 2020 season artwork by local artist Chris Bovey!
Season Tickets are available now! Single Tickets are available July 8, 2019! MAIN STAGE Rhoald Dahl’s MATILDA THE MUSICAL September 13 – October 13, 2019 Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course
We are thrilled to announce the selected plays for our 31st Playwrights' Forum Festival. This year is among the highest number of submissions we've received in recent years. Thank you to everyone who submitted. Your stories are wonderful. CUTTING EDGE BEAUTY, Dacey Else* EGGS OVER EASY, Rich Rubin HELL ON WHEELS, Jean Hardie META…, Bryan
Congratulations to the cast of The House of Blue Leaves! Artie Shaughnessy: Mark Pleasant Ronnie Shaughnessy: Jordan Peters Bunny Flingus: Annie Altevers Bananas Shaughnessy: Elisabet Edwards Corrinna Stroller: Dana Sammond Billy Einhorn: Patrick McHenry-Kroetch Head Nun: Marty Kittelson Little Nun: Sophia Mosbrucker Third Nun: Erin Jellison Thank you to everyone who auditioned! The House of
For the most part, to see live theater is, by nature, to be a fly on the wall. Save for the rare times when actors address the crowd, members of the audience are observers watching a story unfold. But that fly-on-the-wall feeling is amplified during Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of Annie Baker’s “The Flick.” “The
The Flick is both the title and the setting of Annie Baker's 2014 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama about the employees of a classic single-screen theater as it undergoes an ambivalent transition from film-based to digital projection. The play is receiving its regional premiere in a new production in Spokane Civic Theatre's Firth J. Chew Studio space. Andrew Start,
Going to see a movie is a bit of a spectacle in and of itself. After purchasing your tickets, there’s the matter of concessions. Do you go for the classic popcorn and soda combo? The nachos? The licorice or M&Ms? Once that’s settled, it’s time to find the perfect seat. Are you a middle-of-the-row, middle-of-the-theater
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director Andrew Start and actors Will Gilman, Marvin Hughes, and Aubree Peterson came to us from Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J Chew Studio to give a preview of their upcoming show “The Flick.” Focusing on three underpaid employees of a run-down Massachusetts movie theater, it reveals the comedy and
Musical revues are nothing new for Spokane Civic Theatre, but “Broadway, Beat by Beat” isn’t exactly like other revues. Sure, once the performers take the stage, they’ll perform Broadway hit after Broadway hit, either solo or as part of a duet or group. But “Broadway, Beat by Beat” is a show for the performers, by
Kris Kristofferson & the Strangers There's no one quite like Kris Kristofferson, the man who turned a hardscrabble upbringing into an adult life as a Golden Gloves boxer, Rhodes Scholar and eventually one of the premier American songwriters of his generation. "Me and Bobby McGee" might be known for Janis Joplin's version, but that's a
Congratulations to the cast of Broadway Beat by Beat! COMPANY: Marlee Andrews Dominick Betts Maddie Burgess Piper Burney Sarah Dahmen Jameson Elton César Galvan Whitney Huskey Lara James Karlin Kahler Elizabeth Martin Quincy McCune Scott Miller Aubree Peterson Stacia Scharff Jim Swoboda Jonah Taylor Logan West ACADEMY COMPANY Mary Davidow Josephine Kahler Jessie Palmer Leilani Santiago Neharika
You can’t deny the appeal of Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman’s “You Can’t Take It With You,” a play with the perfect balance of humor, drama and feel-good moments. The play, which premiered on Broadway in 1936 and won the Pulitzer Prize for drama the next year, is the story of the eccentric Sycamore-Vanderhof-Carmichael
There's no doubting the timeless appeal of You Can't Take It With You, the farcical family comedy that's been produced — somewhere — pretty much constantly since it debuted on Broadway in 1936, winning the Pulitzer for drama the following year. For theater companies large and small, the play penned by George S. Kaufman and
Season Tickets are available now! Single Tickets are available March 15, 2019! SPRING AWAKENING July 12 – 28, 2019 Main Stage Musical It is Germany, 1891, a world where the grown-ups hold all the cards. The beautiful young Wendla explores the mysteries of her body and wonders aloud where babies come from… until Mama tells
You may think your family is eccentric, but chances are they have nothing on the Sycamore-Vanderhof-Carmichael crew. Martin Vanderhof (Kris Kittelson), aka Grandpa, keeps snakes and vehemently refuses to pay his income tax. His daughter Penelope Sycamore (Phedre Burney-Peters) writes melodramas and is married to Paul Sycamore (Joshua Baig), who constructs fireworks in the basement
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director David Baker and actors Dallan Starks, Athena Lauzon and Audrey Overstreet of Spokane Civic Theatre took to the mic to give us the details on their production of the classic stage comedy “You Can’t Take It with You,” in which a young woman from a good-humored but eccentric
Congratulations to the cast of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time! Christopher John Francis Boone: Nicholas Griep Ed Boone: Jeremy Urann Judy Boone: Abbey Crawford Siobhan: Brianne Smith Voice One, Mrs. Shears, Ensemble: Suzanne Maguire Voice Two, Roger Shears, Ensemble: Charles Fletcher Voice Three, Policeman, Ensemble: Dallan Starks Voice Four, Rev. Peters, Ensemble:
Open the playbill for The Memory of Water, currently being staged in the Spokane Civic Theatre's studio space, and you'll find something beyond the usual director's notes, sponsor ads and cast list: a glossary. With explanations of terms like "Pan's People," "dead like," and "Barleycup," the glossary is meant to serve as a kind of cultural
There’s something about endings that make us pause for reflection. Perhaps it’s because of a want for closure or a chance to think of the things we should have said if there was still time. Or perhaps it’s to illustrate to ourselves just how far we’ve come. On the eve of their mother’s funeral, the
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Director Dawn Taylor Reinhardt and actors Rebecca Craven, Nancy Gasper and Rebecca Bolster of Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J Chew Studio came by the station today to deliver us a drop of their latest production. “The Memory of Water” is a witty, provocative and poignant look at the
Congratulations to the cast of The Flick! Sam: Will Gilman Avery: Marvin Hughes Rose: Megan Levi Skylar: Johnny Monday Thank you to everyone who auditioned! The Flick, directed by Andrew Start, plays in the studio Theatre March 1-24, 2019. Tickets are on sale now through our box office, at all TicketsWest locations, and online.
A three-show run might not sound like much of a challenge, but things are different when it’s Stephen Sondheim’s “Follies” on stage. For one, the musical is, in a word, huge, with the Broadway production calling for a cast of more than 30. With settings like an upscale reunion and a Broadway-worthy show within a
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Creative Director Jake Schaefer gave us the details on Spokane Civic Theatre's upcoming In Concert production of “Follies” with Music Director Henry McNulty, who performed some selections from the show alongside actors Jonah Taylor, Elizabeth Martin, and Robbie Starnegg. The musical centers on a reunion of ex-Follies performers hosted by
Congratulations to the cast of Moby Dick - A Musical! THE CREW OF THE PEQUOD Captain Ahab : Bill Garry Starbuck, First Mate: Tim Campbell Ishmael: David Hardie Stubb, Second Mate: Doug Dawson Flask, Third Mate: Ted Redman Bulkington: Chadron Hazelbaker Pippin, Cabin Boy: Joseph Selle Tashtego, Harpooner: TBA Daggoo, Harpooner: Tim Noon Queequeg, Harpooner: Lionel
Congratulations to the cast the Spokane Civic Theatre Academy's Winter Workshops Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Edward P. Mitchell: Patrick Cabbage F.P Church: Olivia Boures Andrea Borland: Morgan Moog Virginia O’Hanlon: Emily Cabbage Jim O’Hanlon: Zach Moog Evie O’Hanlon: Bivianna Klein Sean O’Hanlon/ Kitten: Kody Higginbotham Ensemble: Paul Sciarrio:
Yes, there’s a narwhal. There’s snow and elves and Santa, too. There’s a bewildered mom, a frustrated son and a very, very grinchy father. But mostly there’s Buddy, a guy so sweet, as one elf quipped, “If he were any sweeter, we’d be diabetic.” The guy who loves Christmas with all his heart and soul.
With the holiday season upon us, Spokane Civic Theatre is gearing up to present the Northwest premiere of “Elf,” a musical adaptation of 2003’s beloved Christmas film. With music by Matthew Sklar, lyrics by Chad Beguelin and a book by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan, the story begins with Buddy the elf’s (Seth Flanders) realization
Last year, in a slight departure from recent tradition, the Spokane Civic Theatre mixed things up by putting on a holiday production that was neither White Christmas, The Christmas Schooner nor some variant of A Christmas Carol, at least one of which had been performed in nine of the previous 12 seasons. Instead, the theater opted to stage A Christmas Story:
Nov. 23-Dec. 16 ELLEN TRAVOLTA PRESENTS CHRISTMAS UNWRAPPED So many us have had memorable and meaningful experiences with gifts of Christmases past. Maybe it was a unique or unexpected present that marked a turning point in your relationship with the person who gave it. Or maybe, on a slightly sadder note, it was that one
Is life one big “Choose Your Own Adventure” game or are all the twists and turns we experience predetermined? Nick Payne’s “Constellations” doesn’t answer the question, but it does offer evidence to back both suggestions. In “Constellations,” multiple universes allow quantum physicist Marianne (Chelsea DuVall) and beekeeper Roland (Max Elinsky) a chance to relive pivotal
We all have those moments we wish we could redo. Maybe we did or said something we regret, or maybe, if we had another chance, we’d say exactly what was on our mind instead of holding our tongue. In Nick Payne’s “Constellations,” multiple universes allow quantum physicist Marianne (Chelsea DuVall) and beekeeper Roland (Max Elinsky)
Listen to the radio interview here. Creative Director Jake Schaefer and Constellations director Pam Kingsley of Spokane Civic Theatre's Firth J Chew Studio Theatre arrived for their interview alongside actor and Spokane newcomer Max Elinsky, who holds a starring role in their upcoming production: Constellations. This 70-minute play begins with a simple encounter between Roland, a beekeeper,
Directed By: Jamie Sciarrio Ages 7-18 Tuition: $120 upon casting (Scholarships Available) Performances: December 21-22, 2018 - 7:30 pm Tickets on sale November 1. 2018 "Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?” The beloved and charming true tale of how a young girl’s letter to the editor brought faith back to
Hot on the heels of the final weekend of season openers “Mary Poppins” and “Bug,” Spokane Civic Theatre is presenting a staged reading of one of the most revered plays in American theater, Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.” The play is both a fictionalized look at the Salem Witch Trials and a commentary on McCarthyism. Directed
Opening the 2018-2019 Civic Theatre season was Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins, directed by Troy Nickerson and choreographed by Heidi Cartwright. The classic production is about Jane and Michael Banks (portrayed by Mia Kubicek and Eli Wissing), and their refusal to work with any nanny. Their list of attributes for the perfect nanny comes
All the leaves may be turning brown, but Spokane’s local arts scene is sprouting more creativity than ever. Dozens of happenings are popping up this season at art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers all over the city. Spokane Arts, the nonprofit promoting Spokane as a cultural hub for the region, is highlighting these events as
Lovers and madmen have such seething brains, such shaping fantasies, that apprehend more than cool reason ever comprehends," says Theseus in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. The madman, he claims, "sees more devils than vast hell can hold," whereas the lover sees beauty where none is evident. And what about when lovers also happen to be madmen?
Wood-paneled walls, a stained carpet that had seen better days, an unreliable AC unit, a nondescript painting above the bed, lamps with retro (but not in a cool way) lampshades on matching bedside tables, old paper plates and cups strewn across nearly every available surface. The set of “Bug” alone, designed by David Baker, was
Nov. 23-Dec. 23, ELF THE MUSICAL This year, make the leap from cranberry sauce to full-blown Christmas spirit in less than 24 hours. The day after Thanksgiving, the Civic is launching the regional premiere of Elf the Musical, which takes cues from the much-adored holiday film starring Will Ferrell as bumbling Buddy the elf. Papa
The Spokane Civic Theatre’s studio theater is an ideal spot for audiences to witness the paranoia and psychological breakdowns in playwright Tracy Letts’ Bug. The confined space that provides the set for the Oklahoma City hotel room where the vast majority of the play takes place means that audiences will surely share the dread experienced
If you want a lesson in contrast, look no further than Spokane Civic Theatre’s current offerings. On Sept. 14, the theater opened its 72nd season on the main stage with perhaps the most feel-good musical around, “Mary Poppins,” complete with a magical flying nanny, cheery tunes and colorful costumes. But just downstairs in the Firth
Listen to the radio interview here. Spokane Civic Theater visits the studio in anticipation of their upcoming show "Bug". This story is set in a seedy Oklahoma City morely room and centers on the meeting between Agnes, a self-medicating divorcee and Peter, a soft-spoken Gulf War drifter. Performance dates: September 21 - October 14, 2018.
Spokane Civic Theatre’s production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s “Mary Poppins” opened last weekend to uproarious support. You could feel the crowd impatiently anticipating. After a cheeky but unfortunately ignored plea from the P.A. system to silence all cellphones and enjoy the show, lights lowered over a hushed house. Introductory chords from the orchestra set
Local director Troy Nickerson and Spokane Civic Theatre Creative Director Jake Schaefer share a magical memory. If you've seen the stage production of Peter Pan, you might remember this moment, too. Peter performs a seemingly impossible act, effortlessly gliding through the air on stage. "It's literally exhilarating," Schaefer recalls. "It makes you believe for a moment what
Listen to the radio interview here. Cast members and the director of the Mary Poppins visit the KPBX studio in anticipation of the show opening Friday, September 14th, 2018.
The East Wind must be passing through Spokane. Mary Poppins is coming to town. Or, rather, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s “Mary Poppins,” which opens Friday at Spokane Civic Theatre. The musical, which premiered in England in 2004 and on Broadway in 2006, is based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the 1964 Disney film
Since its 1908 debut, the story of Anne Shirley has captivated readers the world around. After a lifetime in orphanages and foster homes, Anne (Nicole Ostlie), the protagonist of L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables,” is sent to live with brother and sister Matthew (Clayton Sanchez) and Marilla Cuthbert (Emma Hendricks). Though they were initially
Since opening in 1947, Spokane Civic Theatre has built a reputation for staging intricate productions of beloved plays and musicals. But for 30 years, the theater has also prided itself on being a hub for both new and experienced playwrights to premiere one-act plays. By giving these playwrights a stage, the theater in turn gives the audience
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
If our universe's timeline had unfolded in a slightly different permutation, Troy Nickerson would currently be directing a play about a group of white supremacists from North Idaho. But that's not how things played out. Instead he's overseeing Hello, Dolly!, a lighthearted warhorse musical that might very well be the antithesis of God's Country. The catalyst for this
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
MAIN STAGE Mary Poppins Troy Nickerson Elf The Musical Kathie Doyle-Lipe You Can’t Take It With You David Baker The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Melody Deatherage Young Frankenstein Jake Schaefer STUDIO THEATRE Bug Marianne McLaughlin Constellations Pam Kingsley The Memory of Water Dawn Taylor Reinhardt The Flick Andrew Start The House
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
We are proud to announce the 2018-2019 Season with artwork by local artist Zac Jones. Season Tickets are available online and through our Box Office: more information here! Single show tickets are on sale July 9th online and through our Box Office. MAIN STAGE Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins September 14 - October
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
1. Straight No Chaser Straight No Chaser, a male a cappella group, presents the captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense … and with a sense of humor. When: 8 p.m. Thursday Where: Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox, 1001 W. Sprague Ave.
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
JILLIAN KEHNE: CHOREOGRAPHER OF A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC What do you enjoy most about choreographing a show? For me, choreographing a show is about working with the creative team and actors that we have to put together movement that is creative, puts the actors in their best light, and is coherent with the story being
Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls ! We are thrilled to finally reveal our Main Stage Performance Camp Production! Each summer, we have seen talented teens rise to the challenge of rehearsing and staging a show in under 3 weeks. We wondered...could our impressive community of teen performers tackle the impressive feat of staging a
Lenny Bart: Artistic Director of Spokane Civic Theatre, Director of the upcoming production A Little Night Music Were you nervous going into the audition process? I don't usually get nervous, but I'm always concerned that we'll get enough people with the proper skill set to fill all of the roles. I usually get very excited,
MAIN STAGE West Side Story Musical: September 22-October 15, 2017 Book by Arthur Laurents, Music by Leonard Bernstein, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Based on Conception of Jerome Robbins, Based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all
JOIN US FOR OUR SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT PARTY! January 20, 2017 Free Admission Spokane Civic Theatre 5:00 PM- Doors open for drinks, catering by Charley's, and mingling with members of the Spokane theatre community in the lobby. 6:00 PM- 2017-2018 season announcement presentation in the auditorium. Hang out in the Lobby after the announcement for more
And here is the artwork for the 2016-17 Firth J Chew Studio Season! All the artwork was created by local artist and designer, Zac Jones! Be sure to stop by the theatre, or check your mailbox, for a season brochure! All tickets go on sale July 1! The 2016-17 Season is sponsored by The Local Offices
We are so excited to finally share our 2016-17 Spokane Civic Theatre artwork! All the artwork was created by local artist and designer, Zac Jones! Be sure to stop by the theatre, or check your mailbox, for a season brochure! All tickets go on sale July 1! The 2016-17 Season is sponsored by The Local Offices
Spokane Civic Theatre’s Academy will present Disney’s High School Musical as its Summer Academy Musical. Performances run July 22-31, 2016, and are the culmination of a three-week theatre camp for 13-18 year olds. This audition-only camp brings together Spokane’s talented teenage musical theatre performers to hone their skills, make new friends, and have fun producing
The guys over at OUTSpoken are getting ready for SORDID LIVES (opening this Friday) and will be here for our SOLD OUT opening! Sordid Lives runs January 29 - February 21, 2016 in our Studio Theatre! Here's a bit of what they had to say about Sordid Lives in popular culture from their January 24 show: Do
Spokane Civic Theatre announces Guys and Dolls as its 2015-2016 Season closer,May 20 – June 19, 2016. Civic is making the change from Ghost, the Musical. Keith Dixon, Executive Artistic Director, said several factors informed the decision: “Looking at the success of last season’s The Music Man and other previous spring productions, along with the community’s appetite for
We will be announcing the entire 2016-17 Season on opening night of Les Liaisions Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons), January 15, 2016. Come to hear our exciting announcement, and stay for the deliciously malicious French tale of seduction among aristocrats before the revolution (Rated PG-13).
Pack Your Bags! During the run of Catch Me If You Can, our lobby drawing can have you flying up, up, and away! For just $10 for each entry slip, we have two drawings to choose from to get you on your way with Catch Me If You Can sponsor, Delta Air Lines - choose from "Stars
Thank you for joining for on our 10-part 2015-16 Season Artwork Reveal! We believe that next season will be one of the most exciting ones we've put on yet - and we're excited to bring them to you! Let us know which of our 2015-16 productions you're most excited to see in the comments section below! This
Our 2015-16 Studio Theatre closer artwork reveal is here - and that means we have one final reveal for you tomorrow. Let us know in the comments which Studio production you're most looking forward to seeing! Reveal #9: Fiction Synopsis Linda and Michael Waterman are both successful writers, happily married to one another. They thrive on
In our next-to-last Main Stage production of the 2015-16 Season, we'll have laughs galore with this farce set on a golf course! Reveal #8: The Fox on the Fairway Synopsis The Fox on the Fairway takes audiences on a hilarious romp which pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy denizens of a private country club.
Are you up for a little spy game next season? Well, you're in luck -- we've got just the thing.... Reveal #7: Hapgood Synopsis Dual natures of light - and people - are the theme of Tom Stoppard's espionage thriller. Kerner's secret research is being leaked to Moscow. Is Ridley the double agent? Or is Kerner a triple?
Adding to our 2015-16 Season's silly and sassy shows, we have one that is sweet and nostalgic and based off of one of America's favorite stories. Reveal #6: Little Women Synopsis This timeless captivating story is brought to life in this glorious musical filled with personal discovery, heartache, hope, and everlasting love. Based on Louisa May Alcott's
Welcome to our second poster reveal of the day! And speaking of second, this is also our second of four Studio Theatre productions that we're sharing! Reveal #5: Sordid Lives Synopsis When Peggy, a good Christian woman, hits her head on the sink and bleeds to death after tripping over her lover's wooden legs in a
After experiencing a few technical difficulties yesterday, we were unable to post our Les Liaisons Dangereuses poster - so, to make up for it, we'll be posting TWO today! Reveal #4: Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons) Synopsis A French tale of seduction among aristocrats before the revolution, this classic drama explores decadent sexuality, morals, and manipulation played as the ultimate game
Today we share with you poster reveal #3 out of the 10 we have to show you! Our 2015-16 Season Brochures are almost finished - if you'd like to receive one, send us an email with your name (first and last) and current mailing address and we'll get you on the list! Reveal #3: White Christmas Synopsis
Are you ready for our second reveal!? Yesterday's poster for Catch Me If You Can was our first Main Stage reveal - and today, we're sharing our first Studio poster! If these are getting you as jazzed for next season as we are, 2015-16 Season Subscriptions are on sale now - so you can secure your seats now! - with
It's Time to Share! We are so excited to finally share our 2015-16 Spokane Civic Theatre poster artwork! Over the next ten days, we'll be revealing these fantastic designs, show by show, as created by Design Spike! We'll have a brief synopsis, show dates, and audition dates with each of these posts as well! So
Over the weekend we posted the great line up of productions coming up in our 2015-2016 Season. We found that while a few were familiar with most of the shows, some of you had only heard of one or two - and we think that's a good thing! We've compiled a list of synopses for the
As promised, in our Main Stage announcement we are back today at high noon to announce what's coming up in our Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre for the exciting 2015 - 2016 Season! Evil Dead, The Musical Sordid Lives Hapgood Fiction We will be sharing more information about these shows on the blog beginning Monday! We are
And now...! Without further ado! "Scrooge's Six Days of 'A Christmas Carol'" comes to an end with this SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT! During his curtain speech, Keith Dixon, Artistic Director of Spokane Civic Theatre announced our 2015-2016 Main Stage Season line-up! 2015 - 2016 Main Stage Line-up We are so excited to bring you the following shows
A Closer Look at A Christmas Carol – The Musical! Every story we tell on the stage gets its start somewhere! As Day 2 of our Scrooge’s Six Days of A Christmas Carol – The Musical here at Spokane Civic Theatre, we think Scrooge would prefer that we provide a little educational element to the
Welcome to Scrooge's Six Days of Christmas! Why only six days, you ask? Well, Ebenezer Scrooge surely would not pay for 12 full days of Christmas.... he would pay for six! So all this week we have a fun set of posts planned to help get you into the A Christmas Carol: The Musical spirit! A Word from Scrooge
FRIENDS OF THE BING & SPOKANE CIVIC THEATRE PRESENT: CHRISTMAS AT THE BING A FESTIVE FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT LOCAL THEATERS Friends Of the Bing with the Bing Crosby Theater and Spokane Civic Theatre are teaming up for a night of Christmas cheer and generous giving, in an effort to fundraise and increase programming at both theater venues. "Christmas at the
Siobhan Flanagan, today's guest blogger, and "Legally Blonde"'s "Paulette" Our guest blogger today is Siobhan Flanagan! She currently plays “Paulette Bonafonte", a quirky beautician, in our current Summer Academy production, Legally Blonde, The Musical! Siobhan is a recent graduate of Lewis & Clark High School, where she was heavily involved in the Tiger Drama department, and will
Spokane Civic Theatre's 26th Playwrights' Forum Festival is this weekend, June 6 and 7 in the Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre. The Forum is returning after a five-year hiatus, and features six original plays by playwrights from around the Pacific Northwest. 26th Playwrights' Forum Line Up Featured original one-act plays this year are: Fresh Hell
2014-15 artwork: the wait is over! We can now share with you the beautiful artwork for the Spokane Civic Theatre 2014-15 Season! This season has some new shows mixed in with some old favorites. If you haven't been to a Civic show in a while, or have friends that haven't joined you yet, this is going
SUDS cast provides a special glimpse Last week we visited a rehearsal of our newest studio production: SUDS and learned about the production, and even shared a playlist with songs from the show! Now, as a special treat, we are so excited share some great sneak preview shots with you! All credit and thanks for these fantastic images goes to Chris Wooley
Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap Reigns Supreme with This Whodunnit Chris Wooley of Heads & Tails sent us these images of The Mousetrap cast in action at Spokane Civic Theatre. So, who looks like the guilty one to you? Was it Major Metcalf? He's a retired army man who we don't know much about. Did
Spokane Civic actors take to the stage for first Fox rehearsal! Yesterday, actors from Spokane Civic Theatre held their first rehearsal at the historic Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, in preparation for this weekend’s performance of Les Misérables. This production is quite exciting, as you probably know, because it is the first time Civic
The Christmas Schooner Last weekend... For the closing weekend of The Christmas Schooner, Dec 19 - Dec 22, we will offer two-for-one tickets with a recent ticket stub from any of the following local theatres: Interplayers Theatre Stage Left Circle Moon Theatre Blue Door Theatre Lake City Playhouse Jacklin Arts Center Ignite Community Theatre Spokane
Journey on the Christmas Schooner With Us Everyone looks forward to Christmas entertainment from the Charlie Brown Christmas to the Spokane Symphony's Nutcracker to the Singing Nuns. Well, the theatre world is no different. Spokane Civic Theatre has chosen to celebrate the holiday season with a run of a fairly new, less well known holiday
The People of Second Samuel What makes Second Samuel work is plain old southern soul. It's set in a time when life is slower and it's set in the deep south where life is even slower. Everyone knows everyone and it's everyone's business to know your business. Eccentric characters that embody the small town style
What the Heck is Second Samuel? There is nothing like a little southern comfort and that is just what Second Samuel offers. Second Samuel is a moving play written by Pamela Parker which delves into small town southern living. We see the story play out from the point of view of B Flat who is
The Countdown to Les Miserables Had Begun For the first time a community theatre in Spokane has the opportunity to bring Les Misérables to the stage and we are so incredibly excited about this regional premier. Civic theatre was selected as one of eight community theatres in the nation to produce and present Les Misérables. This is
44 days. 1064 hours. 63,845 minutes. Till What? Les Miserables. On the Main Stage. At Spokane Civic Theatre. Pardon our excitement, but this IS HUGE! Redemption, revolution, turmoil. Jean Valjean. Javert. Cosette. None of this could come alive without the love and support of Civic's patrons. And for this, we thank you. Please join us
Announcing the director for Les Miserables at Spokane Civic Theatre Moving forward... Douglas Webster to direct Les Miserables! Douglas Webster has been affiliated with Les Misérables since the National tour first arrived in Spokane in 1990. He joined the Broadway company in 1993 and returned to lead productions in the role of Jean Valjean for the Phoenix
This Weekend at Spokane Civic Theatre: H & H Weekend H&H Weekend is a celebration of new theatrical work. Ever wonder how those Broadway shows begin? Once an idea is sparked, plays are then "workshopped" and rewritten several times before they are performed for a wider audience. However, plays are meant to be performed, not
No Sneak Peeks Now we won’t give too much away here. Just enough to peek your interest and hopefully get you down to the Spokane Civic Theatre. The Dixie Swim Club weaves the story of 5 ladies who became best friends through their college swim team (thus the title of the show) and have maintained
Avast Ye Maties - Take a Journey to Treasure Island Tonight and for the next three weeks (only three weeks), peg legs and pirate ships are taking over the stage at Spokane Civic Theatre in Treasure Island. When you do a stage adaptation of David Baker's (the Civic's Technical Director) favorite book, you better be
Who's got the Pirate's Treasure Looks like it's time for a Treasure Hunt, Treasure Island style. So, get your swashbuckling pirate gear together and meet some of the cast and crew of Spokane Civic Theatre's Treasure Island Saturday March 30th as you use your treasure map to try and locate the Pirate's Booty. That's another
Opening this weekend in the studio theatre... On Golden Pond Uplifting Classic Play March 22 - April 14 Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre By Ernest Thompson Directed by Wes Deitrick On Golden Pond is a story about Norman and Ethel Thayer returning to their summer lake home in Maine. They plan to celebrate Norman's
Great news ladies! Civic will be expanding the women's restroom! If you have experienced the long lines for the women's restroom during intermission at one of Civic's shows, you will be happy to hear that plans are in the works to add additional stalls and remodel the old ones. Now guys, you might not care
Who Says Normal is Where We Want To Be? Perhaps Next to Normal is where we are most comfortable. Opening this Friday, February 1 and running through March 3, Next to Normal is best described as a rock musical about a family dealing with bi-polar disorder, depression, drug abuse, and more. Now, before you jump
There are Yoopers in da Spokane Civic Theatre camp! A few things before watching Escanaba in Love: Folks hailing from the Upper Peninsula area of Michigan are Yoopers. They even have their own representative in the Michigan state legislature. Beer is the drink of choice and they end many a sentence with they word "eh".
Yes, we just said that. A penny for your fart, not exactly what you would expect to see on a Spokane Civic Theatre Blog. What the heck are we talking about? Escanaba in Love...what else? Had to be another Jeff Daniels extravaganza at Spokane Civic Theatre, otherwise, we would never mention the "f" word. Opening
What do rock music and psychiatry have in common? How about it's Next to Normal? This rock musical brings to life some of the issues we all struggle with weather they be mental, physical, emotional. Nominated for 11, YES 11!, Tony's, Spokane Civic Theatre's production of Next to Normal will put the issues many suburban families face
You know, that place, called Escanaba? Some of you have been there before....in a cabin, in the woods, where a certain Chevy shook a sh_t all around Spokane Civic Theatre? It was called Escanaba In da Moonlight and it involved some, shall we say, very 14 year old boy moments. That show played to sold out
White Christmas: twinkles, tinsel and more Countdown to White Christmas at Spokane Civic Theatre. Beginning Friday, November 16, the Civic stage will twinkle with tinsel and lights and snow and all things Christmas as we open White Christmas directed by Yvonne AK Johnson. This show only runs through December 21, and tickets are only $33 for adults,
Set Design The White Office and the Not So White Office As you sit in the audience, marveling at all the singing, tapping, and general goings on on stage, do you ever wonder, just a wee bit, about the scenery and set design? Do you think, "How'd they do that?" If you've seen Spokane Civic
This is a guest post by Allyson Shoshana Controversy is much of what makes The Producers thoroughly enjoyable Mel Brooks didn't hold back when he crafted The Producers. In fact, he charged into controversy full on, taking on Hitler, Germany, WWII, Broadway, and well, you get the idea. Mel Brooks created The Producers because he figured
