From the Studio: Civic’s “A Christmas Carol”

2024-11-30T00:49:38+00:00

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

From the Studio: Civic’s “A Christmas Carol” 2024-11-30T00:49:38+00:00

Spokesman: ‘We’re pushing boundaries’: Civic does fresh take on ‘A Christmas Carol’

2024-11-29T07:53:32+00:00

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

Spokesman: ‘We’re pushing boundaries’: Civic does fresh take on ‘A Christmas Carol’ 2024-11-29T07:53:32+00:00

Inlander: Staging two shows with different takes on Christmas

2024-11-29T00:53:46+00:00

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

Inlander: Staging two shows with different takes on Christmas 2024-11-29T00:53:46+00:00

Spokesman: ‘An element of pride’: Civic presents ‘An Enemy of the People’

2024-10-25T21:53:25+00:00

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

Spokesman: ‘An element of pride’: Civic presents ‘An Enemy of the People’ 2024-10-25T21:53:25+00:00

Spokesman: Production of ‘Carousel’ comes ‘round full circle

2024-09-13T00:37:41+00:00

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,

Spokesman: Production of ‘Carousel’ comes ‘round full circle 2024-09-13T00:37:41+00:00

Inlander: An Emotional Merry-Go-Round

2024-09-13T00:24:34+00:00

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

Inlander: An Emotional Merry-Go-Round 2024-09-13T00:24:34+00:00

Spokesman: ‘The Little Prince’ comes to Spokane Civic Theatre’s summer stage

2024-07-24T21:11:32+00:00

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

Spokesman: ‘The Little Prince’ comes to Spokane Civic Theatre’s summer stage 2024-07-24T21:11:32+00:00

Spokesman: Civic brings light to the dark in musical production ‘Heathers’

2024-07-16T23:36:32+00:00

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

Spokesman: Civic brings light to the dark in musical production ‘Heathers’ 2024-07-16T23:36:32+00:00

Inlander: Huge in reputation and production value, Cats comes to the Civic in a collaborative, education-driven way

2024-05-23T22:15:33+00:00

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

Inlander: Huge in reputation and production value, Cats comes to the Civic in a collaborative, education-driven way 2024-05-23T22:15:33+00:00

Spokesman: ‘This show is crazy’: Spokane Civic Theatre undertakes massive production of ‘Cats’

2024-05-23T22:21:04+00:00

  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

Spokesman: ‘This show is crazy’: Spokane Civic Theatre undertakes massive production of ‘Cats’ 2024-05-23T22:21:04+00:00

Spokesman: Civic brings art to stage beat by beat, part by part

2024-04-17T23:28:58+00:00

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

Spokesman: Civic brings art to stage beat by beat, part by part 2024-04-17T23:28:58+00:00

Moritz Kundig, prolific mid-century architect behind Spokane Civic Theatre, several iconic homes, dies at 98

2024-02-20T19:30:12+00:00

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

Moritz Kundig, prolific mid-century architect behind Spokane Civic Theatre, several iconic homes, dies at 98 2024-02-20T19:30:12+00:00

Spokesman: Amadeus is just as compelling nearly a half century after its debut

2024-02-02T00:25:40+00:00

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.

Spokesman: Amadeus is just as compelling nearly a half century after its debut 2024-02-02T00:25:40+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Amadeus”

2024-01-31T21:51:07+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Amadeus” 2024-01-31T21:51:07+00:00

Spokesman: ‘Good People’ runs for three weeks at Spokane Civic Theatre

2024-01-20T01:52:58+00:00

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

Spokesman: ‘Good People’ runs for three weeks at Spokane Civic Theatre 2024-01-20T01:52:58+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Good People”

2024-01-18T23:36:37+00:00

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.

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Good People” 2024-01-18T23:36:37+00:00

A gem of a play has been revived for a short run at the Spokane Civic Theatre

2024-01-05T00:49:56+00:00

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

A gem of a play has been revived for a short run at the Spokane Civic Theatre 2024-01-05T00:49:56+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Merrily We Roll Along”

2024-01-03T22:18:31+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Merrily We Roll Along” 2024-01-03T22:18:31+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “She Loves Me”

2023-12-07T00:05:55+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “She Loves Me” 2023-12-07T00:05:55+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘A Sherlock Carol’ is a mashup of merriment, murder

2023-11-28T00:56:41+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘A Sherlock Carol’ is a mashup of merriment, murder 2023-11-28T00:56:41+00:00

A Christmas play crossing Sherlock Holmes with Ebenezer Scrooge makes its PNW premiere at the Civic

2023-11-25T01:46:42+00:00

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,

A Christmas play crossing Sherlock Holmes with Ebenezer Scrooge makes its PNW premiere at the Civic 2023-11-25T01:46:42+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “A Sherlock Carol”

2023-11-30T01:26:59+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “A Sherlock Carol” 2023-11-30T01:26:59+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Dracula”

2023-10-05T22:16:43+00:00

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.

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Dracula” 2023-10-05T22:16:43+00:00

Lots of bite from a feminine ‘Dracula’ tale at Civic

2023-10-05T22:20:19+00:00

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

Lots of bite from a feminine ‘Dracula’ tale at Civic 2023-10-05T22:20:19+00:00

The creepy and the kooky ‘Addams Family’ kick off the Civic’s 76th season

2023-09-15T20:48:50+00:00

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

The creepy and the kooky ‘Addams Family’ kick off the Civic’s 76th season 2023-09-15T20:48:50+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “The Addams Family”

2023-09-15T20:42:59+00:00

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’s “The Addams Family” 2023-09-15T20:42:59+00:00

‘Alice by Heart,’ opening this weekend at Civic, will tug at the heartstrings

2023-07-14T00:08:51+00:00

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

‘Alice by Heart,’ opening this weekend at Civic, will tug at the heartstrings 2023-07-14T00:08:51+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Alice by Heart”

2023-07-14T00:07:50+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Alice by Heart” 2023-07-14T00:07:50+00:00

Thursday Arts (P)review – June 1, 2023: Behind the Curtain: An Inlander collab

2023-06-02T01:06:05+00:00

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

Thursday Arts (P)review – June 1, 2023: Behind the Curtain: An Inlander collab 2023-06-02T01:06:05+00:00

Behind the Curtain: How the Spokane Civic Theatre took Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from page to stage

2023-06-02T00:57:08+00:00

(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

Behind the Curtain: How the Spokane Civic Theatre took Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from page to stage 2023-06-02T00:57:08+00:00

On stage at Civic, it’s Connie Mack and the Chocolate Factory

2023-05-27T01:04:36+00:00

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.

On stage at Civic, it’s Connie Mack and the Chocolate Factory 2023-05-27T01:04:36+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”

2023-05-27T00:55:44+00:00

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,

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” 2023-05-27T00:55:44+00:00

“National Pastime” returns to Spokane Civic Theatre to celebrate 75th anniversary of signing of baseball legend Jackie Robinson

2023-04-20T21:54:28+00:00

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

“National Pastime” returns to Spokane Civic Theatre to celebrate 75th anniversary of signing of baseball legend Jackie Robinson 2023-04-20T21:54:28+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre examines the story of Jackie Robinson in ‘National Pastime’

2023-04-14T23:00:17+00:00

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 Civic Theatre examines the story of Jackie Robinson in ‘National Pastime’ 2023-04-14T23:00:17+00:00

Q & A with National Pastime Writer Bryan Harnetiaux

2023-04-15T01:22:06+00:00

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

Q & A with National Pastime Writer Bryan Harnetiaux 2023-04-15T01:22:06+00:00

National Pastime tells the story of two men — one Black, one white — who, aided by friends and family, united to break the baseball color line

2023-04-14T00:15:09+00:00

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

National Pastime tells the story of two men — one Black, one white — who, aided by friends and family, united to break the baseball color line 2023-04-14T00:15:09+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “National Pastime”

2023-05-27T00:54:20+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “National Pastime” 2023-05-27T00:54:20+00:00

‘Jersey Boys’ take the stage at Spokane Civic Theatre

2023-03-30T00:59:55+00:00

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

‘Jersey Boys’ take the stage at Spokane Civic Theatre 2023-03-30T00:59:55+00:00

Jersey Boys at the Civic tours The Four Seasons’ rocky path to glimmering success

2023-03-30T21:47:00+00:00

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

Jersey Boys at the Civic tours The Four Seasons’ rocky path to glimmering success 2023-03-30T21:47:00+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Jersey Boys”

2023-03-30T01:04:55+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Jersey Boys” 2023-03-30T01:04:55+00:00

The return of the provocative ‘Parallel Lives’

2023-03-01T01:10:20+00:00

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

The return of the provocative ‘Parallel Lives’ 2023-03-01T01:10:20+00:00

Two actors are reprising a production of Parallel Lives and finding the fresh in the familiar

2023-03-01T01:11:07+00:00

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

Two actors are reprising a production of Parallel Lives and finding the fresh in the familiar 2023-03-01T01:11:07+00:00

From the Studio: Civic Academy’s “Shakespeare Beyond Words”

2023-02-08T22:01:47+00:00

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

From the Studio: Civic Academy’s “Shakespeare Beyond Words” 2023-02-08T22:01:47+00:00

4 actors perform more than 50 characters in Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘The 39 Steps’

2023-01-24T22:11:16+00:00

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

4 actors perform more than 50 characters in Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘The 39 Steps’ 2023-01-24T22:11:16+00:00

From the Studio: The Civic’s “The 39 Steps”

2023-01-24T21:58:46+00:00

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

From the Studio: The Civic’s “The 39 Steps” 2023-01-24T21:58:46+00:00

Out and About: “Photograph 51”

2023-01-25T00:37:45+00:00

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

Out and About: “Photograph 51” 2023-01-25T00:37:45+00:00

From the Studio: The Civic’s “Photograph 51”

2023-01-17T01:19:35+00:00

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

From the Studio: The Civic’s “Photograph 51” 2023-01-17T01:19:35+00:00

How improv can change your life: Civic hosts workshop on Saturday

2023-01-06T22:26:55+00:00

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.

How improv can change your life: Civic hosts workshop on Saturday 2023-01-06T22:26:55+00:00

Inlander: Step into a Mystery

2023-01-06T21:44:10+00:00

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

Inlander: Step into a Mystery 2023-01-06T21:44:10+00:00

Taylor Belote: Drummer in Demand

2022-12-06T00:56:34+00:00

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

Taylor Belote: Drummer in Demand 2022-12-06T00:56:34+00:00

From the Studio: The Civic’s “Native Gardens”

2022-12-11T04:01:34+00:00

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

From the Studio: The Civic’s “Native Gardens” 2022-12-11T04:01:34+00:00

From the Studio: The Civic’s “A Christmas Carol”

2022-12-11T03:49:26+00:00

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

From the Studio: The Civic’s “A Christmas Carol” 2022-12-11T03:49:26+00:00

Bryan Harnetiaux’s ‘Exile’ returns to Spokane Civic Theatre

2022-11-01T20:33:17+00:00

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

Bryan Harnetiaux’s ‘Exile’ returns to Spokane Civic Theatre 2022-11-01T20:33:17+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Exile”

2022-11-01T20:37:19+00:00

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

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Exile” 2022-11-01T20:37:19+00:00

From the Studio: The Civic’s “Significant Other”

2022-10-19T23:26:21+00:00

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

From the Studio: The Civic’s “Significant Other” 2022-10-19T23:26:21+00:00

‘Significant Other’ at Civic explores the questions of finding, or not finding, the perfect someone

2022-10-20T00:03:23+00:00

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

‘Significant Other’ at Civic explores the questions of finding, or not finding, the perfect someone 2022-10-20T00:03:23+00:00

After 40 years as the Civic’s playwright-in-residence, Bryan Harnetiaux continues to turn out new work

2022-12-06T00:25:13+00:00

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

After 40 years as the Civic’s playwright-in-residence, Bryan Harnetiaux continues to turn out new work 2022-12-06T00:25:13+00:00

In staging The Wizard of Oz, the Civic is opening its 75th season with a grand tribute to its 50th

2022-10-19T23:41:03+00:00

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

In staging The Wizard of Oz, the Civic is opening its 75th season with a grand tribute to its 50th 2022-10-19T23:41:03+00:00

From the Studio: The Civic’s Wizard of Oz

2022-10-19T23:21:55+00:00

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

From the Studio: The Civic’s Wizard of Oz 2022-10-19T23:21:55+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre announces 2022-23 season program, adds two main stage productions

2022-08-23T19:17:35+00:00

Going into their 75th season, Spokane Civic Theatre’s 2022-23 program will include five main stage productions, three studio productions and three special productions. With a total of 178 scheduled performances, the season has something for the whole family. With plans to remodel the theater on hold until fall 2023 for a myriad of reasons –

Spokane Civic Theatre announces 2022-23 season program, adds two main stage productions 2022-08-23T19:17:35+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre announces 2022-23 season program, adds two main stage productions

2022-10-20T00:01:34+00:00

Going into their 75th season, Spokane Civic Theatre’s 2022-23 program will include five main stage productions, three studio productions and three special productions. With a total of 178 scheduled performances, the season has something for the whole family. With plans to remodel the theater on hold until fall 2023 for a myriad of reasons –

Spokane Civic Theatre announces 2022-23 season program, adds two main stage productions 2022-10-20T00:01:34+00:00

Children’s theater can be a fun, varied and rewarding activity for all types of kids – and their families

2022-06-23T22:27:16+00:00

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

Children’s theater can be a fun, varied and rewarding activity for all types of kids – and their families 2022-06-23T22:27:16+00:00

Intrigue, romance, laughs — the Civic’s regional premiere of Murder on the Orient Express aims to have it all

2022-06-01T23:53:24+00:00

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

Intrigue, romance, laughs — the Civic’s regional premiere of Murder on the Orient Express aims to have it all 2022-06-01T23:53:24+00:00

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ arrives at Spokane Civic Theatre

2022-06-01T23:48:46+00:00

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

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ arrives at Spokane Civic Theatre 2022-06-01T23:48:46+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theater presents “Murder on the Orient Express”

2022-05-26T23:42:03+00:00

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.

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theater presents “Murder on the Orient Express” 2022-05-26T23:42:03+00:00

The Lifespan of a Fact, a play about artistic license, gets its regional premiere at the Civic

2022-05-09T20:33:23+00:00

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

The Lifespan of a Fact, a play about artistic license, gets its regional premiere at the Civic 2022-05-09T20:33:23+00:00

‘Lifespan of a Fact’ pits truth and fiction at Spokane Civic Theatre

2022-05-09T20:30:21+00:00

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

‘Lifespan of a Fact’ pits truth and fiction at Spokane Civic Theatre 2022-05-09T20:30:21+00:00

Don’t rain on this parade: ‘Funny Girl’ opens at Spokane Civic Theatre

2022-04-13T21:49:41+00:00

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

Don’t rain on this parade: ‘Funny Girl’ opens at Spokane Civic Theatre 2022-04-13T21:49:41+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theater Presents “Funny Girl”

2022-05-26T23:36:51+00:00

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.

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theater Presents “Funny Girl” 2022-05-26T23:36:51+00:00

Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite asks enduring questions about happiness and commitment

2022-03-15T20:59:53+00:00

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

Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite asks enduring questions about happiness and commitment 2022-03-15T20:59:53+00:00

The stage is set: After extended pandemic intermission, Spokane Civic Theatre has new show and prepares for new neighbor

2022-02-07T23:59:46+00:00

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 stage is set: After extended pandemic intermission, Spokane Civic Theatre has new show and prepares for new neighbor 2022-02-07T23:59:46+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre returns to stage after two years of COVID-19 cancellations

2022-02-01T01:37:37+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre returns to stage after two years of COVID-19 cancellations 2022-02-01T01:37:37+00:00

The Civic is resuming live theater with The Play That Goes Wrong, a show about the pitfalls (and pratfalls) of live theater

2022-02-01T01:30:43+00:00

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

The Civic is resuming live theater with The Play That Goes Wrong, a show about the pitfalls (and pratfalls) of live theater 2022-02-01T01:30:43+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “The Play That Goes Wrong”

2022-05-26T23:39:51+00:00

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,

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “The Play That Goes Wrong” 2022-05-26T23:39:51+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre

2021-12-17T03:21:27+00:00

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

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre 2021-12-17T03:21:27+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s 2022 season includes ‘Funny Girl,’ ‘Murder on the Orient Express’

2021-11-10T18:26:54+00:00

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’s 2022 season includes ‘Funny Girl,’ ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ 2021-11-10T18:26:54+00:00

‘Civic Presents’: Local actor Patrick Treadway pays homage to Mark Twain

2021-10-19T17:56:59+00:00

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

‘Civic Presents’: Local actor Patrick Treadway pays homage to Mark Twain 2021-10-19T17:56:59+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Leading Ladies”

2021-03-31T17:29:50+00:00

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

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre’s “Leading Ladies” 2021-03-31T17:29:50+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre presents 17 local ‘Leading Ladies’

2021-03-31T17:21:39+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre presents 17 local ‘Leading Ladies’ 2021-03-31T17:21:39+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre presents a virtual show featuring 17 familiar female faces from productions past

2021-03-31T17:19:10+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre presents a virtual show featuring 17 familiar female faces from productions past 2021-03-31T17:19:10+00:00

Even though theaters have been quiet during COVID-19, that doesn’t mean the show isn’t still going on

2020-10-09T17:10:15+00:00

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

Even though theaters have been quiet during COVID-19, that doesn’t mean the show isn’t still going on 2020-10-09T17:10:15+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre receives donated stimulus checks from season ticketholders

2020-04-27T20:28:48+00:00

“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 receives donated stimulus checks from season ticketholders 2020-04-27T20:28:48+00:00

COVID-19 has forced area theaters to defer their seasons and find resourceful ways to survive

2020-03-26T19:01:01+00:00

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

COVID-19 has forced area theaters to defer their seasons and find resourceful ways to survive 2020-03-26T19:01:01+00:00

PREVIEW: Message of ‘Cabaret,’ at Spokane Civic Theatre, is still relevant today

2020-02-28T00:48:16+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Message of ‘Cabaret,’ at Spokane Civic Theatre, is still relevant today 2020-02-28T00:48:16+00:00

PREVIEW: The Civic’s studio production of Cabaret seats its audience right at the tables of the Kit Kat Klub

2020-02-27T23:46:14+00:00

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

PREVIEW: The Civic’s studio production of Cabaret seats its audience right at the tables of the Kit Kat Klub 2020-02-27T23:46:14+00:00

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Cabaret”

2020-02-27T00:35:39+00:00

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

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Cabaret” 2020-02-27T00:35:39+00:00

PREVIEW: A dark farce with operetta-style music, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder isn’t your average Broadway hit musical

2020-01-28T19:36:09+00:00

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

PREVIEW: A dark farce with operetta-style music, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder isn’t your average Broadway hit musical 2020-01-28T19:36:09+00:00

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder”

2020-01-28T19:31:30+00:00

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

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” 2020-01-28T19:31:30+00:00

REVIEW: Plenty of laughs found in Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘Present Laughter’

2020-01-28T19:47:35+00:00

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

REVIEW: Plenty of laughs found in Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘Present Laughter’ 2020-01-28T19:47:35+00:00

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Present Laughter

2020-01-13T20:32:44+00:00

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

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Present Laughter 2020-01-13T20:32:44+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”

2019-12-19T19:58:18+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” 2019-12-19T19:58:18+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “It’s A Wonderful Life”

2019-12-19T20:01:10+00:00

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,

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “It’s A Wonderful Life” 2019-12-19T20:01:10+00:00

REVIEW: Kenneth Lonergan’s ‘This Is Our Youth’ is as relevant as ever

2019-11-22T00:11:57+00:00

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

REVIEW: Kenneth Lonergan’s ‘This Is Our Youth’ is as relevant as ever 2019-11-22T00:11:57+00:00

PREVIEW: Director Andrew Start highlights nostalgia in Civic’s ‘This Is Our Youth’

2019-11-15T20:35:06+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Director Andrew Start highlights nostalgia in Civic’s ‘This Is Our Youth’ 2019-11-15T20:35:06+00:00

PREVIEW: Privileged, aimless and discontented, the three characters of This Is Our Youth might not be all that alien to us

2019-11-15T20:14:00+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Privileged, aimless and discontented, the three characters of This Is Our Youth might not be all that alien to us 2019-11-15T20:14:00+00:00

PREVIEW: ‘This Is Our Youth’ gives a more experimental view of theater

2019-11-15T20:14:41+00:00

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

PREVIEW: ‘This Is Our Youth’ gives a more experimental view of theater 2019-11-15T20:14:41+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “This Is Our Youth”

2019-11-15T20:03:22+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “This Is Our Youth” 2019-11-15T20:03:22+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “This Is Our Youth”

2019-11-15T20:05:40+00:00

LISTEN TO THE RADIO INTERVIEW HERE Kearney Jordan, Director of Spokane Civic Theatre's Academy, visits the studio with a preview of the Academy's production of "War of the Worlds." Also in the studio is the young star of the production, actor Millie Paine, performing scenes from the show and discussing her role as Orson Welles.

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “This Is Our Youth” 2019-11-15T20:05:40+00:00

Front & Center: Halloween made for a theater’s costumer designer

2019-10-30T22:41:25+00:00

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

Front & Center: Halloween made for a theater’s costumer designer 2019-10-30T22:41:25+00:00

PREVIEW: From the Studio: “A Place to Call Home”

2019-10-25T17:37:17+00:00

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

PREVIEW: From the Studio: “A Place to Call Home” 2019-10-25T17:37:17+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre’s creative director talks season highlights and the importance of live entertainment in the age of streaming

2019-10-18T00:07:31+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre’s creative director talks season highlights and the importance of live entertainment in the age of streaming 2019-10-18T00:07:31+00:00

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “The Book of Will

2019-09-25T19:44:20+00:00

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

PREVIEW: From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “The Book of Will 2019-09-25T19:44:20+00:00

In a midsized, mostly white city, how can volunteer theater productions find the actors they need?

2019-09-19T23:36:13+00:00

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

In a midsized, mostly white city, how can volunteer theater productions find the actors they need? 2019-09-19T23:36:13+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Matilda the Musical”

2019-09-18T22:35:54+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Matilda the Musical” 2019-09-18T22:35:54+00:00

PREVIEW: As its 11-year-old lead points out, Matilda the Musical uses contrast to pack an emotional punch

2019-09-18T22:26:08+00:00

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

PREVIEW: As its 11-year-old lead points out, Matilda the Musical uses contrast to pack an emotional punch 2019-09-18T22:26:08+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Academy Presents “13”

2019-08-15T15:27:24+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Academy Presents “13” 2019-08-15T15:27:24+00:00

Art Hour- Henry McNulty, Spokane Civic Theatre’s Music Director

2019-07-24T17:27:23+00:00

  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

Art Hour- Henry McNulty, Spokane Civic Theatre’s Music Director 2019-07-24T17:27:23+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Spring Awakening”

2019-07-11T22:50:52+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Spring Awakening” 2019-07-11T22:50:52+00:00

PREVIEW: ‘Spring Awakening’ brings Elizabeth Martin back to Spokane Civic Theatre

2019-07-17T20:14:03+00:00

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

PREVIEW: ‘Spring Awakening’ brings Elizabeth Martin back to Spokane Civic Theatre 2019-07-17T20:14:03+00:00

PREVIEW: Sexually charged and complex, the rock musical Spring Awakening uses two directors to tackle the Civic’s summer production

2019-07-17T20:08:54+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Sexually charged and complex, the rock musical Spring Awakening uses two directors to tackle the Civic’s summer production 2019-07-17T20:08:54+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents an Evening of Improv

2019-06-01T00:03:28+00:00

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,

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents an Evening of Improv 2019-06-01T00:03:28+00:00

REVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre closes main stage season on a high note with ‘Young Frankenstein’

2019-05-23T21:37:01+00:00

“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

REVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre closes main stage season on a high note with ‘Young Frankenstein’ 2019-05-23T21:37:01+00:00

Front & Center: Patience and tissues were premium assets for State Farm’s first female agent in Spokane

2019-05-23T21:29:33+00:00

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

Front & Center: Patience and tissues were premium assets for State Farm’s first female agent in Spokane 2019-05-23T21:29:33+00:00

PREVIEW: Henry McNulty wears multiple hats during Civic’s ‘Young Frankenstein’

2019-05-23T21:37:19+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Henry McNulty wears multiple hats during Civic’s ‘Young Frankenstein’ 2019-05-23T21:37:19+00:00

PREVIEW: As the Civic closes its season with Young Frankenstein, Mary Shelley’s monster is the creation that keeps on inspiring

2019-05-23T21:37:28+00:00

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

PREVIEW: As the Civic closes its season with Young Frankenstein, Mary Shelley’s monster is the creation that keeps on inspiring 2019-05-23T21:37:28+00:00

PREVIEW: From the Studio: “Young Frankenstein”

2019-05-23T21:36:39+00:00

      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

PREVIEW: From the Studio: “Young Frankenstein” 2019-05-23T21:36:39+00:00

REVIEW: Civic’s ‘House of Blue Leaves’ the definition of dark humor

2019-05-23T21:37:43+00:00

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

REVIEW: Civic’s ‘House of Blue Leaves’ the definition of dark humor 2019-05-23T21:37:43+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “The House of the Blue Leaves”

2019-05-04T18:38:36+00:00

  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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “The House of the Blue Leaves” 2019-05-04T18:38:36+00:00

It’s showtime! Sophia Anne Caruso brings ‘Beetlejuice’ to Broadway

2019-05-06T19:09:56+00:00

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,

It’s showtime! Sophia Anne Caruso brings ‘Beetlejuice’ to Broadway 2019-05-06T19:09:56+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre hosting unprecedented costume sale

2019-04-20T02:29:09+00:00

 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 hosting unprecedented costume sale 2019-04-20T02:29:09+00:00

From evening gowns to gorilla costumes, Spokane Civic Theatre sale brings in funds for next season

2019-04-30T21:50:37+00:00

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

From evening gowns to gorilla costumes, Spokane Civic Theatre sale brings in funds for next season 2019-04-30T21:50:37+00:00

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “Moby Dick – A Musical”

2019-04-05T03:23:45+00:00

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

From the Studio: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “Moby Dick – A Musical” 2019-04-05T03:23:45+00:00

Spokane Civic Theatre to present sold-out run of original production of ‘Moby Dick: The Musical’

2019-04-05T03:04:32+00:00

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

Spokane Civic Theatre to present sold-out run of original production of ‘Moby Dick: The Musical’ 2019-04-05T03:04:32+00:00

Review: Civic’s ‘Curious Incident’ shows importance of compassion

2019-04-05T02:45:49+00:00

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

Review: Civic’s ‘Curious Incident’ shows importance of compassion 2019-04-05T02:45:49+00:00

PREVIEW: U-Hi senior Nicholas Griep brings research, love to role in Civic’s ‘Curious Incident’

2019-03-22T20:59:09+00:00

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

PREVIEW: U-Hi senior Nicholas Griep brings research, love to role in Civic’s ‘Curious Incident’ 2019-03-22T20:59:09+00:00

PREVIEW: Interview with Robyn Nance KXLY

2019-03-21T19:02:44+00:00

  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/

PREVIEW: Interview with Robyn Nance KXLY 2019-03-21T19:02:44+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time”

2019-03-21T18:58:15+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” 2019-03-21T18:58:15+00:00

PREVIEW: The Civic is giving Annie Baker’s Pulitzer-winning realistic drama The Flick its regional premiere

2019-03-05T19:06:05+00:00

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,

PREVIEW: The Civic is giving Annie Baker’s Pulitzer-winning realistic drama The Flick its regional premiere 2019-03-05T19:06:05+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘The Flick’ celebrates the depth behind the mundane

2019-03-05T19:00:34+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘The Flick’ celebrates the depth behind the mundane 2019-03-05T19:00:34+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J Chew Studio presents “The Flick”

2019-03-05T19:09:12+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J Chew Studio presents “The Flick” 2019-03-05T19:09:12+00:00

PREVIEW: Eccentricity the norm in Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘You Can’t Take It With You’

2019-01-25T23:50:02+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Eccentricity the norm in Spokane Civic Theatre’s ‘You Can’t Take It With You’ 2019-01-25T23:50:02+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “You Can’t Take It with You”

2019-01-24T18:47:45+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “You Can’t Take It with You” 2019-01-24T18:47:45+00:00

PREVIEW: The Memory of Water is about Alzheimer’s, death and grief. It’s also an award-winning comedy

2019-01-18T00:44:43+00:00

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

PREVIEW: The Memory of Water is about Alzheimer’s, death and grief. It’s also an award-winning comedy 2019-01-18T00:44:43+00:00

PREVIEW: Civic’s ‘The Memory of Water’ brings sisters together for reflection

2019-01-18T00:39:20+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Civic’s ‘The Memory of Water’ brings sisters together for reflection 2019-01-18T00:39:20+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J Chew Studio presents “The Memory of Water”

2019-01-18T00:32:10+00:00

  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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre’s Firth J Chew Studio presents “The Memory of Water” 2019-01-18T00:32:10+00:00

PREVIEW: Seasoned actors, young performers lead Civic’s ‘Follies’

2019-01-14T21:42:35+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Seasoned actors, young performers lead Civic’s ‘Follies’ 2019-01-14T21:42:35+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “Follies”

2019-01-18T00:35:32+00:00

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

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre presents “Follies” 2019-01-18T00:35:32+00:00

PREVIEW: A veteran director and newcomer are paired up in this year’s Civic holiday production of Elf

2019-01-14T21:58:24+00:00

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:

PREVIEW: A veteran director and newcomer are paired up in this year’s Civic holiday production of Elf 2019-01-14T21:58:24+00:00

NEP student to be in Civic Theatre’s ‘Elf The Musical’

2018-11-19T23:37:48+00:00

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

NEP student to be in Civic Theatre’s ‘Elf The Musical’ 2018-11-19T23:37:48+00:00

REVIEW: In ‘Constellations,’ a path of fractured moments that make up a relationship

2018-11-19T23:54:57+00:00

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

REVIEW: In ‘Constellations,’ a path of fractured moments that make up a relationship 2018-11-19T23:54:57+00:00

PREVIEW: Civic explores difference between choice and destiny in ‘Constellations’

2018-11-19T23:56:14+00:00

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)

PREVIEW: Civic explores difference between choice and destiny in ‘Constellations’ 2018-11-19T23:56:14+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Constellations”

2018-11-08T20:08:10+00:00

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,

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Constellations” 2018-11-08T20:08:10+00:00

CIVIC STUDENTS: The Magical ‘Mary Poppins’

2018-10-16T00:02:38+00:00

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

CIVIC STUDENTS: The Magical ‘Mary Poppins’ 2018-10-16T00:02:38+00:00

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Bug”

2018-09-21T19:53:54+00:00

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.

PREVIEW: Spokane Civic Theatre Presents “Bug” 2018-09-21T19:53:54+00:00

PREVIEW: Mary Poppins at Spokane Civic Theatre

2018-09-21T19:58:12+00:00

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.  

PREVIEW: Mary Poppins at Spokane Civic Theatre 2018-09-21T19:58:12+00:00

Making ‘Mary Poppins’: How Spokane Civic Theatre is bringing the ‘practically perfect’ musical to life

2018-09-21T19:47:14+00:00

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

Making ‘Mary Poppins’: How Spokane Civic Theatre is bringing the ‘practically perfect’ musical to life 2018-09-21T19:47:14+00:00

PLAYWRIGHT PROFILE: BRYAN HARNETIAUX

2017-11-08T18:36:27+00:00

BRYAN HARNETIAUX: PLAYWRIGHT OF HOLDING ON~LETTING GO What inspired you to write Holding On Letting Go?   I had written the first two plays in the end of life cycle, VESTA and DUSK, and was encouraged by those involved in the field to consider writing a hospice play. My own experience with hospice he was

PLAYWRIGHT PROFILE: BRYAN HARNETIAUX 2017-11-08T18:36:27+00:00

CHOREOGRAPHER PROFILE: JILLIAN KEHNE

2017-11-08T18:45:24+00:00

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

CHOREOGRAPHER PROFILE: JILLIAN KEHNE 2017-11-08T18:45:24+00:00

DIRECTOR PROFILE: LENNY BART

2017-02-06T12:44:22+00:00

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,

DIRECTOR PROFILE: LENNY BART 2017-02-06T12:44:22+00:00

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: SAMANTHA STEYART, KELSI LYNN BLASER, CHRIS TAYLOR, GARY PIERCE

2016-12-23T09:04:41+00:00

Samantha Steyart- Stage Manager/On Stage Sound FX                 What do you think makes It’s a Wonderful Life such an endearing tale? It’s a Wonderful Life is a tale that most people can relate to in some aspect. Everyone has had that moment where something didn’t go exactly right

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: SAMANTHA STEYART, KELSI LYNN BLASER, CHRIS TAYLOR, GARY PIERCE 2016-12-23T09:04:41+00:00

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: MILLIE PAINE, ELIAS BALDWIN-BONNEY, GRAYSON PAINE, LUCY PAINE

2016-12-15T13:44:41+00:00

Millie Paine- Young Mary                 What do you think makes It’s a Wonderful Life such an endearing tale? I think it's a classic tale because of the message it sends and how everyone can relate to it. Everyone gets depressed at times but then we're shown that people

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: MILLIE PAINE, ELIAS BALDWIN-BONNEY, GRAYSON PAINE, LUCY PAINE 2016-12-15T13:44:41+00:00

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: BEN DYCK, LULU STAFFORD, DAVE RIDEOUT, KEARNEY JORDAN

2016-12-05T17:26:02+00:00

Ben Dyck- Mr. Potter                 What do you think makes It’s a Wonderful Life such an endearing tale? The themes. The message of hope. This is a time of year that is difficult for many for a number of reasons. This story resonates with those who feel downtrodden

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: BEN DYCK, LULU STAFFORD, DAVE RIDEOUT, KEARNEY JORDAN 2016-12-05T17:26:02+00:00

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: LENNY BART, THERESA HAUENSTEIN, MICHAEL METTERS, MICHAEL HYNES

2016-11-29T16:55:45+00:00

Lenny Bart- Director                 What do you think makes It’s a Wonderful Life such an endearing tale? It deals with the impact we can have on others in our lives.  It deals with the spirit of “Giving” of the self, and not of commercial endeavors.  It is the

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE PROFILES: LENNY BART, THERESA HAUENSTEIN, MICHAEL METTERS, MICHAEL HYNES 2016-11-29T16:55:45+00:00

Director Interview: Chris Taylor with A Charlie Brown Christmas

2016-10-28T15:07:37+00:00

M. Hoffman: Charlie Brown celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.  What do you think it is about the show that makes us return to it again and again? C. Taylor: I think that A Charlie Brown Christmas has tremendous appeal, both to young actors who are being exposed to Charles Schultz for the first time,

Director Interview: Chris Taylor with A Charlie Brown Christmas 2016-10-28T15:07:37+00:00

Actress Profile: Kat Heath

2016-10-21T14:07:29+00:00

Photo Credit: Chris Wooley Heads and Tails Photography Hoffman: Tell me about playing Magenta in Rocky Horror.  What are your favorite parts and what are the most challenging parts?  Heath: Magenta has been a dream come true for me. I have wanted to do this show since I was probably 14 and she

Actress Profile: Kat Heath 2016-10-21T14:07:29+00:00

Actress Profile: Samantha Schneider

2016-09-27T15:12:20+00:00

Hoffman: Tell me more about your experience wearing the costume for Madame La Bouche in Beauty and The Beast! S. Schneider: This costume is the most elaborate I have had in all my time of theater. It is heavy, on wheels, and it takes two to three guys to lift it high enough for me

Actress Profile: Samantha Schneider 2016-09-27T15:12:20+00:00

An Interview with Summer Berry Costume Designer for Beauty and The Beast

2016-09-19T16:16:50+00:00

  M.Hoffman: Tell me more about your process of design for Beauty and The Beast!  Berry: Process is very important in the journey of costume design. The research, the vision of the production as a whole, and the resources that are available all play a part in my process. I didn’t want to make this

An Interview with Summer Berry Costume Designer for Beauty and The Beast 2016-09-19T16:16:50+00:00

OUTSpoken Preps You for 'SORDID LIVES'

2016-01-26T17:40:31+00:00

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

OUTSpoken Preps You for 'SORDID LIVES' 2016-01-26T17:40:31+00:00

"Orphans" at Nationals: Billy Hultquist

2015-06-24T09:48:51+00:00

The Orphans Trek to Michigan The Orphans company is settled in for their week at the AACTFest 15 Nationals competition in Grand Rapids, Michigan - and this morning, they kick off the performance festivities by presenting very first! Update from the Road: Billy Hultquist Billy Hultquist, who plays Treat in our production, sent us some photos and

"Orphans" at Nationals: Billy Hultquist 2015-06-24T09:48:51+00:00

Scrooge's Six Days of 'A Christmas Carol': Day 1

2014-11-16T13:40:00+00:00

 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

Scrooge's Six Days of 'A Christmas Carol': Day 1 2014-11-16T13:40:00+00:00

Meet the Playwright: Matthew Weaver

2014-06-05T18:16:19+00:00

In this weeklong series, we're introducing our fabulous playwrights with work in the 26th Playwrights' Forum Festival at Spokane Civic Theatre. We asked each of our playwrights a few questions about themselves and their entries, so you'll know a bit about them before you see their works Friday and Saturday! Here's our next playwright of this feature: Introducing:

Meet the Playwright: Matthew Weaver 2014-06-05T18:16:19+00:00

Meet the Playwright: Fred Tonge

2014-06-04T16:11:14+00:00

In this weeklong series, we're introducing our fabulous playwrights with work in the 26th Playwrights' Forum Festival at Spokane Civic Theatre. We asked each of our playwrights a few questions about themselves and their entries, so you'll know a bit about them before you see their works Friday and Saturday! Time to get acquainted with our next playwright!

Meet the Playwright: Fred Tonge 2014-06-04T16:11:14+00:00

Meet the Playwright: Keith McGregor

2014-06-03T03:37:04+00:00

In this weeklong series, we're introducing our fabulous playwrights with work in the 26th Playwrights' Forum Festival at Spokane Civic Theatre. We asked each of our playwrights a few questions about themselves and their entries, so you'll know a bit about them before you see their works Friday and Saturday! Today, we meet our second playwright! Introducing: Keith

Meet the Playwright: Keith McGregor 2014-06-03T03:37:04+00:00

Meet the Playwright: Merridawn Duckler

2014-06-02T11:28:35+00:00

In this weeklong series, we're introducing our fabulous playwrights with work in the 26th Playwrights' Forum Festival at Spokane Civic Theatre. We asked each of our playwrights a few questions about themselves and their entries, so you'll know a bit about them before you see their works Friday and Saturday! We get to present our first

Meet the Playwright: Merridawn Duckler 2014-06-02T11:28:35+00:00

Theatre Love: Anything Goes Comes Spokane's Way

2013-10-04T19:34:48+00:00

Any Theatre In Spokane Is Good Theatre Spokane is a theatre kind of town. Really. You've got Ignite Community Theatre, SCC Players and SFCC Spartan Theatre, Interplayers Lake City Playhouse and Spokane Children's Theatre to name just a few. Spokane even gets its fair share of national tours thanks to the Best of Broadway series. And here

Theatre Love: Anything Goes Comes Spokane's Way 2013-10-04T19:34:48+00:00

Ultimate Guide to Civic's Theatre Costumes

2013-06-06T14:42:20+00:00

Civic Theatre Costumes, What You Don't Know Admit it, you're either one who is really curious about the costumes you see on the stage at Spokane Civic Theatre or you're one of those who really doesn't notice them. Either is good. One marvels about the ins and outs of theatre and the other gets so

Ultimate Guide to Civic's Theatre Costumes 2013-06-06T14:42:20+00:00

White Christmas in depth – Susan Waverly

2012-11-09T19:10:13+00:00

Get to know the cast of Spokane Civic Theatre's White Christmas Meet Susan Waverly Well, on stage in White Christmas she's Susan Waverly....in life, she's Marlena Mizzoni. Susan Waverly, the grand-daughter of General Waverly (to find out who he is, you need to see the show...opening this Friday on Spokane Civic Theatre's Main Stage), is

White Christmas in depth – Susan Waverly 2012-11-09T19:10:13+00:00

Meet Andrea Dawson, Songs for a New World

2012-10-24T15:54:43+00:00

Fall into Fall Fall is always a great time at Spokane Civic Theatre. Falls means the start of the theatre season. And not just for Civic, but for WestCoast Best of Broadway, Lake City Playhouse, Interplayers and more. Fall also means it's time for Spokane Civic Theatre's annual fundraiser In Concert. And as many of you

Meet Andrea Dawson, Songs for a New World 2012-10-24T15:54:43+00:00

Meet Robby French

2012-10-16T18:55:10+00:00

In about two weeks, Spokane Civic Theatre will be alive with the sound of music. In this case, the music of Jason Robert Brown. Singing this wonderful composer's praises and music will be none other than some of Civic's most talented vocalists. So, we thought we would take a few minutes to highlight some of

Meet Robby French 2012-10-16T18:55:10+00:00

Meet Civic's own Roger Elizabeth DeBris

2012-08-24T17:16:37+00:00

Who is Roger Elizabeth DeBris? You may remember Roger De Bris from previous Spokane Civic productions gone by...who can forget the infamous Governor in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas? Or Barfee in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee? Source: spokanecivictheatre.com via Spokane on Pinterest   Ok, so Roger DeBris is not really any of those roles.

Meet Civic's own Roger Elizabeth DeBris 2012-08-24T17:16:37+00:00

Island Shakespeare Festival

2012-07-31T21:03:59+00:00

Shakespeare in the park, not just for the rich and famous! Spokane Civic Theatre recently connected with the Island Shakespeare Festival in Whidbey Island. For those of you who have never been to an outdoor Shakespeare Festival and who feel like a road trip from the East Side of Washington to the West(ish), you should

Island Shakespeare Festival 2012-07-31T21:03:59+00:00