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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Best Local Play of the Past Year BRIGHT STAR, SPOKANE VALLEY SUMMER THEATRE 2nd PLACE: The Addams Family, Spokane Civic Theatre 3rd PLACE: Sweeney Todd, Stage Left Theater NORTH IDAHO'S BEST: Tommy, Aspire Community Theatre, Coeur d'Alene The Company of The Addams Family, 2023 Photograph by Marlee Melinda Andrews
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
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
Renowned architect Moritz Kundig, one of Spokane’s most prolific midcentury modern champions, died last Saturday at the age of 98. With a keen eye for form and light, and a knack for inviting the outdoors in, Kundig rose to prominence in the ’60s and ’70s as a versatile designer capable of taking on a wide
Acclaim was quickly bestowed upon “Amadeus” after the play opened at London’s Royal National Theater in 1979. The following year, the beloved musical debuted on Broadway and “Amadeus” won the Tony Award for Best Play in 1981. There’s no play quite like “Amadeus,” which will be performed Friday through Feb. 25 at the Spokane Civic Theatre.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
When Connie Mack Overstreet’s pals are playing under the harsh sunlight on a baseball diamond, the child actor is on a different type of platform. Overstreet, 13, who was named after the legendary baseball manager with the most wins and losses in major league baseball history, is at home under the lights of a stage.
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Cast and creatives perform songs from the regional premiere and discuss its charms Jillian Kehne, Troy Nickerson, Connie Mack Overstreet and Jerrod Phelps joined E.J. Iannelli in the KPBX studio to give details on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The production, which is a regional premiere of the 2013 musical,
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
Spokane Civic Theatre has renewed "National Pastime," a play from Spokane playwright Bryan Harnetiaux, which tells the story of Jackie Robinson, who made history as the first black athlete signed to a Major League Baseball team 75 years ago. Tickets are $10 for students, $25 for adults and can be purchased online at the Theatre's website! Spokane
Buck O’Neil nailed it while sitting in the KXLY studio in 2003 when he reminisced about Jackie Robinson breaking major league baseball’s color line in 1947. “When (Brooklyn Dodgers President) Branch (Rickey) signed Jackie to that contract, that was the beginning of the civil rights movement,” O’Neil said O’Neil, who became the first African-American coach
Spokane, Wash. - National Pastime, an award-winning play, is returning to Spokane this week for the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's historic MLB debut. As a part of the newly introduced Major League Baseball campaign, "The Nine", meant to celebrate and honor the impact of black baseball pioneers and further diversify the business of baseball, the
The very first scene that playwright Bryan Harnetiaux wrote for his play National Pastime was also its most severe. Although it's often referred to in euphemistic shorthand as "the office scene," the first-act finale depicts the real-life episode in which Branch Rickey, then club president and general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, met with a 26-year-old Black baseball
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE The director, playwright and cast members preview a play about Jackie Robinson Kimberly Ridgeway, Tré Terry and Bryan Harnetiaux entered the KPBX studio with E.J. Iannelli to talk about Harnetiaux's play National Pastime. The play recounts Jackie Robinson's historic breaking of the baseball color barrier and the toll that civil
Celebrate Spokane Civic Theatre's 75th Season with an evening of entertainment, dining, history, fundraising (live and silent auction), and community. SATURDAY, APRIL 29 NORTHERN QUEST CASINO DOORS OPEN AT 5:30 EVENT BEGINS AT 6:00 MENU OPTIONS 8oz Filet Mignon USDA Choice center cut tenderloin of beef with whiskey-sage gravy; medium-rare (can be gluten-free) Served with
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
Best Local Play of the Past Year NEWSIES, SPOKANE VALLEY SUMMER THEATRE "The dancing was phenomenal! So much energy from so many local young kids. Awesome!" (Jeanne F.); "It was a spectacular show with a killer Broadway set and fantastic dancing, singing and acting." (Erin W.) 2nd PLACE: The Rocky Horror Show, Stage Left Theater 3rd
Jukebox musicals have a reputation for flimsy narratives but are often buoyed by a hit parade of songs. But “Jersey Boys,” which opens this weekend and runs through March 26 at the Spokane Civic Theatre, has the tunes and the story, albeit an unlikely tale. There were a myriad of lads singing on the street
It's been over 50 years since four boys from Jersey formed the hit 1960s band The Four Seasons, but their story continues inspiring audiences around the globe. That story is being told once again as the four-time Tony-Award winning musical from Broadway comes to the Spokane Civic Theatre's main stage. It's rare for a community theater
No one needs to explain to Melody Deatherage and Kathie Doyle-Lipe how much heavy lifting is required to pull off “Parallel Lives.” The Spokane Civic Theatre veterans, who are the only actors in the production, are well aware that they will portray a myriad of characters since they starred in “Parallel Lives” six years ago
For Kathie Doyle-Lipe and Melody Deatherage, there's a whiff of déjà vu to their upcoming performance of Parallel Lives, opening this weekend on the Spokane Civic Theatre's main stage for a limited run. "We actually put this up six years ago for Lake City Playhouse as they were getting restarted. And then Civic approached us later about maybe
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
Improv was the key to the lock that helped Spokane’s Michael Glatzmaier move forward while attending Rogers High School. The 2009 alum languished in special education classes while passing up most opportunities. “When I discovered improv, everything changed for me,” Glatzmaier said. “My problem was that I said no to everything. I had no confidence.
It’s often hard to know what to say in a given situation in our day-to-day lives, so why not ratchet up the difficulty of dealing with that feeling on a stage? Florida-based MGTeams seeks to improve the way people communicate by using improvisational comedy. The squad of performers both teaches and entertains with a spontaneous
The Spokane Civic Theatre's production of THE 39 STEPS, opening Jan. 20, promises to carry audiences through a rollicking tale of romance, espionage and murder. With just a handful of actors tackling more than a hundred parts, the show, which originated in London in 2006 and became one of the West End's longest-running shows, has since delighted
You might have spotted him in the orchestra pit at Spokane Civic Theatre or Lake City Playhouse. If you’re traveling during the holidays you might see him at Spokane International Airport. Or, if you’re taking the family to meet Santa at the Southside Community Center on Dec. 17, you’ll find him there. Taylor Belote is
SPOKANE, Wash. - Lace up your skates and watch the tree come alight downtown at the Numerica Skate Ribbon! It's time for this year's tree lighting ceremony! If ice skating is not your thing, not to fear! There will be food trucks, live entertainment, and free hot chocolate courtesy of Starbucks. The event kicks off
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
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
First Friday is 5-8 p.m. Nov. 4, unless otherwise noted. Central Library – Paintings exploring the various rhythms of relational ecosystems, by Stefani M. Rossi; also art classes for kids, swing dancing lessons, live music, refreshments and food trucks, 4-8 p.m., 906 W. Main Ave. (509) 444-5300. Craftsman Cellars – Abstract art with acrylic paintings
Spokane Civic Theatre is proud to reintegrate American Sign Language interpreted performances of Season 75 Main Stage shows. ASL Interpreted Performances A CHRISTMAS CAROL Sunday, November 27 at 2PM Friday, December 9 at 7:30PM THE 39 STEPS Sunday, January 22 at 2PM Friday, February 3 at 7:30PM JERSEY BOYS Sunday, March 12 at 2PM Friday, March 24 at 7:30PM CHARLIE
1 Swell – 5 p.m. on Friday, Saranac Art Projects, 25 W. Main Ave. Saranac Art Projects presents a collection of works by artists Lisa Nappa and Chris Tyllia. The joint exhibit features materials, objects and images that explore observation, movement and change. For information, visit sapgallery.com or call (509) 954-5458. Admission: FREE 2 Peter
Bryan Harnetiaux has served as Spokane Civic Theatre’s playwright-in-residence since 1982. Over the course of four decades, Harnetiaux has written more than 40 plays ranging from single-act to full-length, 13 of which have been published. Expanded from a shorter play of the same name, Harnetiaux’s “Exile” opened Friday at Spokane Civic Theatre. Retired from the
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
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
Bryan Harnetiaux has been penning plays for the Civic for four decades. In the theater world, playwrights-in-residence are writers who commit themselves to a particular venue for a set period of time. It's intended to be a symbiotic relationship, with the theater giving the playwright access to the resources needed to bring a
Advertisement for the new building and season in 1967 By Jim Kershner August 2022 In November 1946, a tiny notice appeared in the Spokane Chronicle announcing the formation of a new dramatic organization, Spokane Civic Theatre. At this point in Spokane’s history, the city had already witnessed a parade of drama clubs, theater
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
Spokane Civic Theatre is pleased to announce the submission window for its 33rd Playwrights’ Forum Festival is now open. Selected scripts will be fully produced at the Festival, to be held June 15 - 18, 2023 in the Firth J Chew Studio Theatre. Submission window closes January 15, 2023. For eligibility, information and submission details,
While audiences in New York continue trailing behind pre-pandemic numbers, local performing arts organizations report a steady return to theaters. And in some cases, 2022 sales have exceeded pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, Spokane Valley Summer Theater exceeded all of its previous box office records. Meanwhile, ticket sales for the following year were looking even better. They
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
32nd Playwrights' Forum Festival Winners Adjudicator Selection: The Terrible and the Sublime by Scott Stolnack Directed for the festival by Barry Saxton and featuring Barry Brathovde and Brian Little Audience Favorites: Boxes by Pamela Kingsley Directed for the festival by Susan Hardie and featuring Bobby Billiau and Jean Hardie Perspective by Tristen Canfield Directed for the festival
It's a rainy Saturday morning, and Kearney Jordan is standing at the front of the main stage of the Spokane Civic Theatre. She's running through cues and movement - a process known as blocking - with a group of teens and preteens for a production of Thornton Wilder's classic Our Town. The scene they're rehearsing calls for
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-IN-A-WEEK CAMPS Campers experience an exciting fast track from page-to-stage and develop confidence in storytelling, character creation and an understanding of theater fundamentals while having fun in a safe and creative environment. See the learned skills put into action during an end-of-the-week performance, open to family and friends. Ages 5-14. Sessions offered from July
Spokane Civic Theatre is moving forward with a multimillion-dollar expansion project that will bring several updates to its building north of the Spokane River. Spokane-based Cortner Architectural Co. filed a pre-development application with the city last week to build a 4,000-square-foot addition to the 17,000-square-foot theater at 1020 N. Howard St. Spokane Civic Theatre is
After nearly two years of canceled shows and virtual productions, Spokane Civic Theatre has returned to the stage with a bang – and a crash, and maybe a few pieces of broken china. But worry not, it’s all by design. “The Play That Goes Wrong,” Civic’s 2022 season opener, is “two hours of laughs,” executive
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
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,
Spokane Civic Theatre Health and Safety Policy Update Effective January 28, 2022 Being that Spokane Civic Theatre is a community-facing, volunteer-driven organization, and in response to the ongoing pandemic impact that our area is experiencing, the following health and safety policies are effective January 28, 2022: 1. For guests 5 years of age and older, masks are required at all times when inside the Civic facility (see Order
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's Executive Director, Jake Schaefer, talks about the return of the Civic's radio performance of "A Christmas Carol," and gives a preview of the theatre's coming season. "A Christmas Carol" will air on KPBX on December 19th at 4pm and Christmas Day at noon. For more information
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
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
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LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Verne Windham talks to Abbey Crawford about Spokane Civic Theatre's "Leading Ladies," a program featuring musical performances of 17 of the Civic's female members. Verne delves into the SPR audio archives to hear some of those performers in past visits to the Performance Studio. "Leading Ladies" will livestream at
Spokane Civic Theatre will present “Leading Ladies,” a production featuring 17 distinct musical performances filmed on the Civic Studio Theatre Stage with piano accompaniment by Civic Music Director Henry McNulty. The program will begin livestreaming at 7:30 p.m. Friday. The theater has organized two virtual showcases and a Christmas radio show over the past few
For almost a year, performers and theater lovers have sat at home dreaming of the creative outlet that local productions provide. To help fill that void, Spokane Civic Theatre is coming back to life with Civic Presents: Leading Ladies, a virtual show dedicated to the theater's female stars past and present. For the performers, getting back on
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
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
In the six months since statewide COVID-19 restrictions went into effect, local stages have been eerily quiet. There's been the occasional outward sign of fresh activity, such as Stage Left Theater's livestreamed adaptation of its annual Playwright's Playground festival in late August. But the casual observer could be forgiven for assuming that area theaters had resigned
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
A Message from Henry McNulty, Music Director of Spokane Civic Theatre. Greetings from Civic! I hope everyone out there is holding up okay. These are trying times for all of us. But this too shall pass. We’re still here, and there is so much to look forward to. To help remind ourselves of what really
Morgan Keene is about as far away as possible from Spokane for someone remaining in the U.S. The singer-actress, who cut her teeth as a teen on the Spokane theater scene, is 2,794 miles away in Orlando. “I miss how beautiful it was (in Spokane),” said Keene, a former Mead High School student who starred
“I’ve always depended on the kindness of strangers.” – Blanche DuBois, “A Streetcar Named Desire” It is a challenging time for the arts due to the novel coronavirus. Who knows when shows will commence? Financial support of any kind is essential for local theater groups to stay afloat during an unprecedented time. Strangers, which recalls
Spokane Civic Theatre COVID-19 04.15.2020
All the world's a stage... Join us for the Spokane Civic Theatre Shakespeare Monologue Challenge to be featured in a special video reading of a section of AS YOU LIKE IT (Act II, Scene VII). Film yourself performing the piece below and send it to us through Facebook messenger, or email us at brianna@spokanecivictheatre.com. Video
When gatherings of 50 or more were prohibited across Washington state, theaters set about the sad business of closing their box offices and clearing their marquees. Until that point, there had been a vague, if fanciful, hope that their footlights would somehow remain lit. Like so many businesses and organizations around the world, theaters across the
Spokane Civic Theatre March 17, 2020
Spokane Civic Theatre COVID-19 03.16.2020
View yesterday's update here: Spokane Civic Theatre - COVID 19 - 03.12.2020
Spokane Civic Theatre - COVID 19 - 03.12.2020
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
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
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
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
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
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
Frank Lloyd Wright claimed his childhood fascination with building blocks ignited his lifelong passion for architecture. Madison Taylor Hendricks can probably relate. “It sounds silly,” she said, “but when I got my Barbie fashion design kit when I was 5 or 6, that was the moment when I knew I was going to be doing
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
A lifelong obsession with theater has paid off big time for Jake Schaefer, the creative director for the Spokane Civic Theatre. The Inland Northwest native first experienced the spotlight as a kid actor at the Civic, and after developing his own entertainment company in L.A., he's back in his hometown. In his current position, Schaefer works with
THAR SHE SHOWS! A local theater production is going big-time this winter. Moby Dick - the Musical was workshopped in April at the Spokane Civic Theatre with an assist from a Spokane Arts SAGA grant, and now the show created by writer Ed Bryan, composer William Berry and director Jean Hardie has been accepted as
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
If acting is fundamentally an exercise in empathy, casting is fundamentally an exercise in discrimination. That term can feel loaded at a time when inclusivity and diversity are sociocultural watchwords. Yet most roles demand very specific attributes. Playwrights generally have a strong idea of who exactly their dramatis personae are and will explicitly state as much
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
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
The Spokane Civic Theatre, located just a few miles west of the Gonzaga campus, is about to enter its 73rd season. This theater is one of the oldest community theaters in the country and as its mission says hopes “to foster an enduring love for live theatre in every community member.” The Civic’s upcoming season
As the temperatures begin to cool and the leaves begin to change color, many performing arts organizations begin to ramp up in preparation for the beginning of their season. But with so many organizations to choose from in town with theater, music, voice, dance, improv, art and more, it can be difficult to catch everything
Spokane has a plethora of opportunities to attend and participate in the performing arts. From musical theater to improv comedy, dance to drumming, and everything in between, there's something for everyone. The notion of keeping up with it all is daunting, and that's why TheaterFest was created. TheaterFest is a one-day event that brings a multitude
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
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
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
Actress and singer Elizabeth Martin has been onstage since she was 4, inspired by seeing her older sisters take the stage. But after more than a decade of performing, Martin decided that it was time for a break. “I didn’t know if I was doing it because I wanted to do it or because it
Abbreviated rehearsal schedules are nothing new in the theater world, but with Spring Awakening, the Spokane Civic Theatre's first fully fledged, main-stage summer production in recent memory, the usual time constraints were even more unforgiving. With less than four weeks between the close of Young Frankenstein, the community theater's 2018–19 season finale, and curtain up on Spring Awakening, the
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
Spokane Civic Theatre 31st Playwrights’ Forum Festival PLAYWRIGHTS GATHERING Saturday, June 22, 2019 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM Spokane Civic Theatre Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre 1020 North Howard Street This gathering focuses on the development and production of new works, and the art and business of play writing. While the gathering is primarily designed
The Heat Is On If you want to catch the last vestiges of the 2018-19 theater season before summer officially begins on June 21, you're going to have to scramble. Bare: A Pop Opera (spokanestageleft.org, $20) and Young Frankenstein (spokanecivictheatre.com, $32), two profoundly different musicals about unorthodox love and alienation, are both closing on June 16. With Bottoms Up!(igniteonbroadway.org, $15),
University High School’s production of the musical “Big Fish” this spring caught the eye of the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, which nominated the Spokane Valley school for more than a dozen awards, ranging from outstanding musical to outstanding scenic design. This is the 17th year that the 5th Avenue Theatre has selected winners in
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
LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Spokane Civic Theatre's Academy will present an evening of imrov at North Central High School Theater as a fundraiser for the Academy's scholarship program, and North Central Drama's first ever trip to the International Thespian Festival. Academy Director Kearney Jordan talks about the Academy's expanding programming for young actors,
“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
When Prudential Life Insurance honored its “Top Salesman” of the year in 1975, the award included the traditional trove of gifts: a men’s suit, cuff links and three tie tacks, along with a silver trophy in the shape of a man carrying a briefcase. The winner, Estelle Holzer, commented, “A woman has to work much
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
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
As the opening song of the Broadway musical “Hadestown” tells us, on the road to hell, there’s a railroad station. And for Patrick Page, the actor who rules the underworld as Hades in the acclaimed production now running in New York, the first station he rolled into was Spokane. It’s the city where he was
NEW YORK – It was his dad who instilled in him a love of acting. And for Max Kumangai, that love has turned into a profession. “I was a little ham growing up,” Kumangai said. “My dad was always clocking that I always wanted to be the center of attention. “I’d done some school plays
NEW YORK – Upstairs at the Winter Garden Theatre, a 123-year-old building on Broadway Avenue between 50th and 51st streets in midtown Manhattan, is a room with a long counter and two lighted mirrors along one wall. The wall opposite is home to a rack of costume dresses, most in black, but one in deep,
WATCH THE VIDEO INTERVIEW HERE It's out with the old and in with the new as the Spokane Theatre puts price tags on 5,000 of their costumes in an effort to raise money for future productions. Costume designers with the Civic Theatre said in recent months they took inventory of all of their costume storage
Spokane Civic Theatre Costume Shop is doing a major spring clean and selling over 3000+ pieces to raise money for next year’s stellar season! Items include: Men’s suits and sports coats, contemporary mens and women’s fashions, outerwear, novelty/specialty costumes, period attire, show specific pieces (Damn Yankees, Grease, Mary Poppins, Gypsy, South Pacific,etc.), furs, hats, accessories,
People were lining up Friday to take a crack at thousands of costume pieces up for sale during an event hosted by the Spokane Civic Theatre. There were more than 5,000 items available when the doors opened, Civic costume shop stitcher Robbi Starnegg said. “This one is the first one,” she said. “What they’re doing
Panida Playhouse Jr. Drama Camp A drama camp for young thespians who want to work on their dramatic skills and perform in a real show, a mystery dinner show at the Panida's Little Theater. Ages 11-14. June 6-July 27, meets Tue/Thu from 1-3 pm. At the Panida Theater, Sandpoint. $80. panida.org Stepping Out Into the
Two songs from the new Broadway musical “Beetlejuice: The Musical,” starring Spokane-born actress Sophia Anne Caruso, hit the internet on Friday. Billboard.com posted two promo tracks, “Dead Mom” and “Say My Name,” and an interview with Eddie Perfect, who wrote the show’s music and lyrics. “Dead Mom” is sung by Caruso, who plays the teenage Lydia
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
Spokane Civic Theatre made two big announcements last week. First, the selected plays for the 31st Playwrights’ Forum Festival, which highlights new one-act plays, 30 minutes or less, by playwrights across the region. This year’s festival features: “Cutting Edge Beauty” by Dacey Else, the youth division winner; “Eggs Over Easy” by Rich Rubin; “Hell on
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
BEST LOCAL PLAY OR MUSICAL OF 2018-19 Mary Poppins, Spokane Civic Theatre Mary Poppins opened the Civic Theatre's 2018-19 season, and by most accounts it was supercalifrag... well, you get the idea. Based on the beloved book series and 1964 Disney feature, the Tony-winning musical is a technical feat, with inanimate objects coming to life
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
Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Bug” and Stage Left Theater’s “Closing It Up” won big at the Kaleidoscope Theatre Festival, Feb. 28-March 2 in Prosser, Washington. “Bug,” directed by Marianne McLaughlin, won the following adjudicator awards: outstanding scene transitions, outstanding properties design, outstanding set design (David Baker), outstanding performance as supporting actor (Billy Hultquist), outstanding performance as
Kaleidoscope One-Act Community Theatre Festival 2019 Adjudicator Awards Outstanding Scene Transitions Bug – Spokane Civic Theatre Outstanding Properties Design Bug – Spokane Civic Theatre Outstanding Set Design David Baker – Bug – Spokane Civic Theatre Outstanding Performance as Supporting Actor Billy Hulquist – Bug – Spokane Civic Theatre Outstanding Performance as Lead Actor Danny Anderson
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
In the fall, “Bug” infiltrated Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre. “Bug,” by playwright/actor Tracy Letts, centers on cocktail waitress Agnes White (Josephine Keefe), who is living in a seedy motel room while hiding from her abusive ex-husband Jerry Goss (Billy Hultquist). One night, White’s friend RC (Emily Jones) introduces her to Gulf
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
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
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-Jan. 1 NORTH POLE LAKE CRUISE & HOLIDAY LIGHTS Santa Claus has come to town, specifically Coeur d'Alene. Each night from after Thanksgiving and until New Year's Day, young and old alike can take a trip to the North Pole on Lake Coeur d'Alene. Featured on this 40-minute cruise ride are dazzling light displays
There’s something called the Alexander Technique for Musicians that Mikalah Barem thinks might make a good research project, should she end up needing one. The technique is a way to consciously exercise your body properly while singing or playing a musical instrument. Barem is personally acquainted with the pain of “piano back” because she used to spend
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,
On Saturday, November 24th from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. stop into Riverfront Spokane at the Ice Ribbon to dance, sing, craft and meet Santa! Enjoy a live performance by The Rub at 4:00 p.m. and get ready to light the night with a Tree Lighting Celebration at 6:00 p.m. Presented by Riverfront Spokane and Downtown Spokane in partnership with Spokane
Kids! Buddy is missing and it is almost Christmas Eve! He’s hiding somewhere in downtown Spokane and Santa needs your help finding him. Once you have collected ten stamps, bring your Passport to Auntie’s Bookstore or the Concierge Desk at River Park Square and pick up a prize! Your Passport will be automatically entered into
The early Spokane Civic Theater formed in 1946 after Spokane’s theater scene went dormant during World War II. But the group always struggled to find a permanent home. In the late 1940s, the group used a small building at 652 S. Denver, but neighbors didn’t like the theater’s traffic. Gonzaga University let them use the
Join River Park Square as we welcome Santa on November 16th from 6 -7 PM. The festivities will feature free hot chocolate and face painting, as well as a special performance from Spokane Civic Theatre's cast of Elf the Musical and the chance to interact with some very special elves all the way from the
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
Today, the Spokesman-Review is releasing a new guidebook to the Lilac City titled 100 Things to Do in Spokane Before You Die. It largely consists of obvious activities and it's being published by Reedy Press in St. Louis, employing the same template that Reedy has used for guidebooks to such wondrous locales as Reno, Tucson,
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
‘Mary Poppins’ Meet and GreetWhen: 11 a.m. Saturday Where: River Park Square, 808 W. Main Ave. Cost: Free. Looking for a “practically perfect” way to spend an afternoon? Join Mary Poppins (Quincy McCune) and Bert (Jerrod Galles) for a meet and greet in the River Park Square atrium on Saturday. From 11 a.m. to 12:30
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
In hopes of cultivating excitement for the theater in the Inland Northwest, local groups came together to create TheaterFest, an accessible, community-focused showcase of the region's upcoming performing arts season. This Sunday's TheaterFest at the Fox Theater is Spokane's first ever preview showcase, and it's free to the public. It offers community members the
Spokane Arts wants to give Spokane audiences a glimpse of what’s ahead for this season. Sunday afternoon, many of the city’s performing arts organizations will come to the Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox to give sneak peeks of upcoming performances. “The goal of TheaterFest is to get people excited about the new season of
It's fitting, of course, that the Spokane Civic Theatre has had its share of drama: The high-profile firing of Artistic Director Yvonne A. K. Johnson back in 2013 not only sparked headlines — it sparked an expensive lawsuit. "We were dormant after some of the stuff that happened," Executive Director Mike Shannon says. "I've been
Sophia Anne Caruso, the Spokane-born actress who co-starred in the David Bowie musical “Lazarus” Off-Broadway and on the West End in London, has a new role to play. Caruso will play the goth teenager Lydia, the role made famous by Winona Rider, in an upcoming musical adaptation of “Beetlejuice.” The 1988 Tim Burton film “Beetlejuice”
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
June 9th only! Spokane Civic Theatre will be offering $5 off tickets to Hello, Dolly! with donations of new or gently used clothing in an effort to support Teen & Kid Closet! Discounted tickets available at the Box Office only. Partner with us to support this incredible organization that is reaching so many kids in need in
RADAR is BACK! Spokane Civic Theatre's Performance Art Training Program returns June 18-22, this year with a showcase for students to show off skills developed during the week long program. Don't wait, register today at spokanecivictheatre.com/radar
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
Preview of Psycho Beach Party by Azaria Podplesky of The Spokesman Review
To celebrate 135 years in the community, the Spokesman-Review is bringing one of its most beloved features, Dorothy Dean, to the stage at the Dorothy Dean Home Cooking Show, Saturday at the Spokane Convention Center. The show will feature cooking demonstrations, product and food sampling, wine tasting, Dorothy Dean recipes, giveaways and more. And while
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
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
Review of Psycho Beach Party by Juliette Carey of The Gonzaga Bulletin
Review of Psycho Beach Party by Juliette Carey of The Gonzaga Bulletin
