Actors Mission

Actors' Mission Announces NIGHT, MOTHER

2009-09-18T00:20:00.000-07:00

Actors' Mission Announces NIGHT, MOTHER by Marsha Norman

October 1, 2, 3 7 pm and October 4 2 pm

Elks Lodge, C Street Rock Springs

Complimentary dinner served one hour before performances.

Actors' Mission Presents Trepidation Nation

2009-05-07T23:14:00.000-07:00

2009-03-09T21:02:00.000-07:00

2009-02-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, That's Right

2009-02-19T12:53:00.000-08:00

Actors' Mission opens its 7th season with David Mamet's "Oleanna" on March 5, 6, 7, and 8. "Oleanna" is directed by Jasmine Weaver.

"Oleanna" is about the power struggle between a university professor and one of his female students who accuses him of sexual harrassment when she visits his office to explore her failure in his class. John, played by Donovan Rawlings attempts to reconcile his conflict with Carol, played by Mallory Brady after his chances of tenure at the university are ruined by the charges. The drama escalates through the final scene, leaving audiences to determine their own understanding and perceptions on several key issues:

Did sexual harassment actually occur?
Who is the protagonist in this play? The antagonist?
Which version of Carol is the true one: the confused girl who appeals for personal instruction in the first act, or the woman who confidently asserts herself in the final scenes?

"Oleanna" will be performed at the Elk's Lodge on C Street in Rock Springs. On March 5, 6, and 7, performances will begin at 7pm. On March 8, there will be a matinee beginning at 2pm. As always, free dinner will be served one hour prior to performances. This production is free and open to the public, thanks to the generosity of our patrons and Sweetwater BOCES.

2008-11-27T18:17:00.000-08:00

Rituals of Theater Set the Tone for Neil Simon's "Odd Couple"

2008-11-22T17:37:00.000-08:00

As Actors’ Mission prepares to open Neil Simon’s eclectic female version of “The Odd Couple,” the theater in the lower ballroom of the Elks’ Lodge is alive with ritual. Cast member Deb Jensen lounges in her customary spot on the set reviewing lines. Jasmine Weaver tries diligently to finish her homework before rehearsal commences. Mallory and Jessica gravitate towards one another to nasally contemplate the quintessential New York accent. Director Roy Hansen’s cell phone ceremoniously clamors every 30 seconds and he: “Kim’s on her way.” “Kirsten’s coming.”
On the director’s table sits an iconic Magic 8-ball. “I ask it how rehearsal will go, and if Kirsten will show up on time, “comments Hansen. “Does it work?” I ask. “Remarkably well,” he says.
It is his habit, but he really doesn’t need the 8-ball to tell him anything. He’s got everything he needs for a smash hit: a Neil Simon classic, a completed set, sound effects, someone who actually wants to sort out costumes and props, and a dynamic cast. If you are unfamiliar with the classical tale of the Odd Couple, it is the New York story of two mismatched roommates. Olive, played by Deb Jensen, is an award-winning television writer lacking in tact and domestic talent. She generously takes in Florence, a neurotic neat-freak who is devastated when her husband abruptly leaves her. Florence will be played by Kirsten Mundschenk. While Olive copes with continuous complaints and ailments from her new roommate, Florence’s frustration with Olive’s sloppy habits escalates. The two main characters are supported by a gang of New York gal pals who rally for evening games of Trivial Pursuit, conflict mediation, and suicide prevention. “The Odd Couple” is classic escapist theater-entertaining and engaging, wrought with wit, physical comedy, and pure comic timing.
On this night, Roy conducts another ritual. He directs Deb Jensen and Kirsten Mundschenk, once she arrives, to the stage to sit in the “hot seat.” He encourages other cast members to ask the duo anything they want about their characters, which they then must answer in character. I ask, “What is your biggest pet peeve with one another?” Kirsten, channeling Florence offers, “You know, I can put up with things laying all over the floor, the clothes, the smudges, but I just can’t take all the crusty things!” Deb Jensen in the character of Olive retorts in a thick New York drawl, “Imagine. You’re lying in your bed, catching your zz’s, head on your pillow in the middle of the night, when suddenly you’re awakened by the EEEOOOOW of a moose call. That’ll wake you up.” Florence whines defensively, “I have to clear my sinuses.” “The hot seat is a way for us to get into character, and to develop our characters. Plus it burns time while we’re waiting for everyone to show up,” Roy explains.
Roy has been a member of Actors’ Mission since the get-go. He’s starred in several productions, and has previously directed the popular “American Century.” When I asked if he was intimidated to direct such a well-known writer and play, he nonchalantly answers, “No. I have to work on the set too much to get intimidated.”
“The Odd Couple” is sponsored by Sweetwater BOCES and by a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council through funding from the Wyoming State Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art. There is free admission for dinner and the show, but donations are always welcome.
The female version of Neil Simon’s Odd Couple will run December 4th , 5th, and 6th at 7:00 pm and on December 7th at 2:00 pm. As always, the Mission will provide dinner one hour prior to show times. Food offerings will include a New York menu of soups and gourmet coffees.
At the close of the rehearsal, I approach the Magic 8-ball on the table and ask, “Will this play be a hilarious good time for our audiences? I give it a good shake, flip it over and read the answer. “You bet.”

In the Works

2008-10-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

Namaste, Everyone!

The Odd Couple, female version, is in full swing with rehearsals, set building, and menu-planning. We've got another talented cast on board-a nice mix of old hands and new folks (welcome, new folks). This show will run early December, so get ready to mark out performance dates. More on that later.

The other thing you've got to get thinking about are the 2nd Annual Actors' Mission Spammy Awards. If you didn't attend last year, you missed a great time. Here's what it is: We present awards, obviously incorporating Spam (why? because you're an actor, a producer, a ham, but ham's blah-say, dahling). But don't get your ego's in a twist-these are tongue in cheek awards recognizing your performances. For example, last year, Tom Zuehlsdorff prolly got one for Best Performance by a Deity in a comedy for his portrayal of Shiva in Mother's Day. Spammys will be in January. Many will be nominated, few will win. The Board of Directors will feed you, typical Mission style.

Donovan Rawlings has secured a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council for us to target under-developed audiences for the next production. Nice work, Don. We appreciate your efforts.

We Will Rock You, but not anytime soon. Have you heard rumors about the Mission finding a permanent actual theater? We know the Urban Renewal Agency has secured the historic Rock Theater and would like to see Actors' Mission presence there, along with other fine performances, but there's a bit of roof damage to the building, and that needs to be taken care of before anything else progresses. We're hopeful, but we must wait, good people. Wait.

We must absolutely thank Erik Hamm for his generous donation of a sound mixer and mini-disc deck (which Nina then somehow broke). This guy is just phenomenal with his technical wizardry, matched only by his genorosity. If you see him, prostrate before him, 'K?

Finally, we've decided to do another evening of one-acts. But we've no idea what they are yet. More importantly, these one-acts are to showcase new directors who'll be given a veteran AM mentor. So throw your hat in the ring and come direct a play. Where else will you have this kind of opportunity-to herd actors across the stage, develop your people skills, show off your creative chops, all with the support of a loving, knowledgeable Board and organization? Come on! Do it! Leave a comment if you're interested.

We Did the Hell Out of the Laramie Project

2008-10-06T07:54:00.001-07:00

Well, we did the hell out of the Laramie Project. We had great discussions after performances with Cal Reruka, the prosecuting attorney in the trials, as well as Thomas Howard from the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

So what are we aiming for: erasing hate from the human psyche, teaching tolerance, appreciating differences, or something inbetween?

Thoughts about the discussion topics, the performances, the cast party? Anything at all?

The Laramie Project Opens October 2, 2008

2008-09-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

Actors' Mission will present "The Laramie Project" by Moises Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project. Performances will be October 2, 3, 4 at 7pm and a matinee on October 5th beginning at 2pm. As always, free food will be served one hour prior to showtimes. All performances will be given at our theater at the Elk's Lodge on C. Street in Rock Springs. Performances are free and open to the public, thanks to the generous support of Sweetwater BOCES.

We hope you join us for this very special performance, given during the 10 year anniversary of the Matthew Shepard tragedy, as we explore not only the brutal beating and death of this University of Wyoming student, but the reactions of the townspeople of Laramie, the state of Wyoming, and the nation to this crime.

Actors' Mission welcomes some very special guests to performances. Thomas Howard, Jr., the Director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, will give short presentations following some performances, and will deliver a free public lecture, "The Campaign to Erase Hate," at Western Wyoming Community College Room 1302 at 1pm on Thursday, October 2nd. In addition, we are pleased to welcome Cal Rerucha, the prosecuting attorney in the case to performances to participate in a discussion panel.

The Laramie Project is directed by David Gutierrez and features original photography by Micah Parrish, original musical score by Nina Kessner, and a haunting vocal performance by Jennie Frankus. Cast members Donovan Rawlings, Cookie Boynton, Kathy Graham, Jeff Varley, Micah Parrish, Jared Schwab, Lance Diehl, Jessica Burgess, and Nina Kessner cordially invite everyone to attend, and thank you for your continued support of Sweetwater County's non-profit communinty theater. In addition, we wish to thank our talented stage crew as well as the members of the community who worked diligently to make "The Laramie Project" a dynamic community-wide event.

2008-08-20T06:08:00.000-07:00

Hello All Actors' Mission,

Well, it's been a busy month, and September promises to be busy as well as we build to our performance dates. In case you haven't heard, our production of The Laramie Project will take place October 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What follows is a brief summary of the progress made on various aspects of the production. I hope you will respond in two ways. First, you are invited to volunteer to help out on the production itself. Second, you can start to talk up this production to your friends and relatives. I am confident that this production will be outstanding and an important event for our troupe, our audience, and our community.

The Cast
Auditions were held in July, and I want to thank the twenty-one people who showed up. I believe we have assembled an exceptional cast: Alix Boyton, Jessica Burgess, Lance Diehl, Kathy Graham, Nina Kessner, Micah Parrish, Donovan Rawlings, Jared Schwab, and Jeff Varley. We are well into rehearsals, and I am thrilled with the skill, dedication and love these players are putting into their performance. This is a difficult play to master both technically and emotionally. I just want to encourage you to support these people who are putting their time, heart, and soul into this play.

The Production Staff
Certain responsibilities have been assigned. Aaron Volner did a great job as Assistant Director, until he had to get away to college last week. Roy Hansen has taken on the especially difficult job of Stage Manager. Mike Jeffery will be doing Host/House duties again, and Brad Russell will be doing the Lights. Donovan Rawlings will head the Newspaper Publicity, and Tom Zuehlsdorff will do the Radio. Erik Hamm is our Technical Advisor. Kirsten Mundschenk has taken on Food Coordinator, which is definitely a new role for her. We'll see if she's as good a chef as she is an actress.
We are still looking for volunteers for other positions. We need a Lighting Assistant, two individuals to run the side projections, and one person to cue the music. We also need all kinds of help to distribute posters. Mike could use a few volunteers to help prepare the house.

The Set
Thanks to Alex Haven, Dawn Storrud, and Roy Hansen, our set is up and mostly complete. There remains a list of some tasks to complete, and the large photographic mural has yet to be hung. But what you see now is a stage more or less as you will see it on the first night of performance. Bravo.

The Artwork and Photography
Posters art is finished and ready to run. It features our signature image for this production, the road outside Laramie where Matthew Shepard was taken that night. Micah Parrish is the photographer. I am exceptionally proud of that shot and this poster. Micah has also shot the photographs we will use for the side projections and the big panorama which will serve as the backdrop for our set. Kudoes to him.

The Music
Nina Kessner has composed music that will play an integral part of the play. It is just incredible, like the lady herself. You have got to hear this to believe it. The play will end with a vocal piece to be performed by Jennie Frankus.

The Community Interface Committee
A community group has been formed in order to provide an educational component to go along with our production. My friend Kayne Pyatt is heading this group of interested citizens and Actors' Mission members. Brad Russell is her co-chair. Educational events will take place after each performance. Kayne will conduct an "open mike" after performances on Thursday and Friday. Chris Kennedy will head and conduct a discussion after Saturday's performance and the Sunday matinee.
Mr. Howard, the head of the Matthew Shepard foundation, will be coming to Rock Springs in connection with our production of The Laramie Project. He will speak at the college on Thursday and will attend several of our performances.

Well, that's all for now. I hope I didn't leave anything or anybody out.

If you want to be a part of this production, feel free to stop by a rehearsal. In general, we rehearse Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays starting at 7 PM.

Much love to all of you. Please get involved, and, of course, come to this play.

Thanks,
Dave Gutierrez ("G")

The Laramie Project Poster Artwork Photograph by Micah Parrish

2008-08-18T22:43:00.000-07:00

Laramie Project Update: Photo Excursion to Laramie

2008-08-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

Hello Cast,
Hope you are all checking your email regularly as there will be things coming up from this point on. This afternoon, I feel a need to fill you in on the photographic excursion to Laramie we made this weekend.
It was a hectic 24 hours and definitely an ordeal as we hurried around the town trying to get all the shots for the slide projections: churches, the courthouse, downtown, campus and other places relevant to the story of Matthew's death. Thanks to Micah, we have great shots that we will definitely use, and he, in particular, deserves a lot of credit for the quality of the photographs he composed under hurried circumstances. You'll be impressed.For me, it was not just a logistical but an emotional ordeal, one that definitely had its highs and lows. I guess I didn't think about or even anticipate how visiting these places would make me feel.
When we stopped by the bar that was once the Fireside, I really wasn't prepared. I guess physically, visually, the place was a disappointment (we didn't take a single picture of it, not even its dreary face) and it probably bears little resemblance to the bar Matthew visited that night anyway since it has been remodeled and walls have been opened up. What I saw was a characterless and sprawling space, neither cheerful nor glum, no features to speak of, a generic college bar barely animated with a few late afternoon clients. There was no romance in the physical space; this was not a "hangout" or "happening" place to be remembered fondly years later. The pool tables were still there, and the bartender had a bit of Matt Galloway in him, but, otherwise, the place was indifferent to the fateful encounter that took place there ten years ago. We had a drink in the passionless silence for a while. I listened to the sex talk of the group of pathetic young males sitting near us laying the getting laid bullshit on thick and loud enough for me to hear. Old and relentless talk, hurtful, evil, and deadening to the human spirit. Where could such talk lead? I was way down by this time. There was nothing else to do, say, no way to appropriately react, just a horrible, hopeless gloom descending. We left.
Off Happy Jack Road, we found the perfect place to shoot the lights of Laramie. Up a dirt road through treey spaces on an intensely starry night (and after a hilarious encounter with a philosophical and very drunk camper looking for deadwood for a late-start fire --- we'll fill in on this encounter later but with very little imagination we could see definitely see Doc O'Connor in this guy), we came to a spot on the mountain where we could see a little belt of light looking up through a "v" formed by the black trees and sloping mountain . After a hike in the dark with flashlight and tripod in hand, we came to an open area, and there we had it, the twinkling lights of Laramie with a starry spattering above and maybe, we think, a shooting star.
For the "set" shot, I wanted a panorama of what Matthew might have seen that dawn, about 50 degrees of the horizon from his point of view. I knew already that the fence no longer exists, dismantled by the private landowners tired of the endless pilgrims. But I think we were on the very road, and I think we were within a few miles of the spot. One reason is that the road, which comes out of a modern subdivision, is blocked by huge boulders and a few yards further it has been purposefully torn up with earth moving equipment. Why? It seemed a little extreme for a barricade when a simple gate would have worked.
Micah and I hiked up that road as it rose onto a fairly high hill which affords a overlook of the town and an unobstructed view of the range. At first, I thought I wanted a panorama of the view toward Laramie from Matthew's point of view, but we chose the view toward the mountains instead. It was a beautiful sight: billowy clouds, the sweep of prairie grass and woods and the smooth mounds of those embracing mountains. We shot what we could because we were at the last shots on the flashdrive, and it was starting to rain and promising more to come. So we are keeping our fingers crossed that you will see what we saw in the final composite photo.
On the way back, we found the 'signature" shot for the poster, program and all the artwork. The road lifts in the foreground and bows again before the distant mountains above which weeping clouds are swirling. A road is a more powerful symbol than a fence. Fences separate, limit, hold back. Roads lead, destinations unclear and outcomes unknown, but they rise and wind, ending, perhaps, in the clouds.

The Cast of The Laramie Project

2008-07-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

Actors' Mission Announces
The Cast of The Laramie Project
October 2, 3, 4 & 5

Stephen Belber
Lance Diehl

Amanda Gronich
Kathy Graham

Mercedes Herrero
Nina Kessner

Moisés Kaufman
Donovan Rawlings

Andy Paris
Micah Parrish

Greg Pierotti
Jared Schwab

Barbara Pitts
Jessica Burgess

Leigh Fondakowski
Alix Boynton

Murray Dunlap
Jeff Varley

Laramie Project News: Community Interact Group

2008-07-14T21:41:00.000-07:00

Hello All Actors' Mission:

Here's an update on recent The Laramie Project happenings.

Community Interact Group

Kayne Pyatt, a colleague of mine from my WWCC days and one of the most enlightened ladies around, has agreed to spearhead the Community Interact Group. This is the group that will provide the educational component to go with our production. We met tonight to brainstorm, come up with a plan of action, and begin the process.

We will be organizing several educational events that will go with our performances. Here is the tentative list.

For sure:
Following performances on Thursday and Friday, we will be conducting a discussion similar to what Chris Plant used to do in the early days of Actors' Mission. After a brief talk, Kayne will conduct a Q&A session, which will hopefully result in a general discussion. An "open mike" will be part of this event, and audience and cast will have an opportunity to voice their reactions to the performance.

Also, for sure:
Following performances on Saturday and Sunday, there will be be a panel discussion featuring community members and Actors' Mission folk. We will be in the process of seeking volunteers for this group, Kayne from the community and myself from Actors' Mission. Please let me know if you would like to be on this panel. This will be a more formal presentation but Q&A and "open mike" will also be a part of it.

Not for sure, but probable:
A member of the Community Interact Group will either write a newspaper article or letter to the editor concerning the themes and ideas in The Laramie Project. The letter will be submitted to the Rocket Miner for publication the week of September 14-20.

A long shot, but still possible:
The group will make inquiries to the Matthew Shepard Foundation. We would like to invite a speaker from that group. If our quiries are successful, we would plan a separate event for a related talk.

Need volunteers for the Community Interact Group!

I need some Actors' MIssion people to volunteer to be on the Community Interact Group. I have some individuals in mind to ask, but, if you are interested, please let me know. There will be two meetings of this group: Monday, August 4 at 7 PM and Tuesday, August 19. The place hasn't been determined, but it will likely be either my house or Kayne's.

Viewing of Movie "The Laramie Project"

Thanks to those of you who showed up for the movie yesterday. I may have an additional showing after the play is cast. It is such a pleasure to view the movie in our space at the Elks with friends.

G (Dave Gutierrez)

Upcoming Meeting and Board Elections

2008-07-10T07:22:00.000-07:00

Namaste Everyone,

Just a reminder that the board meeting will be the last Sunday of July (the 27th). During this meeting, we will be electing board members. The positions up for election are President, Treasurer, and Voting Board Member. If you are interested in a position or would like to nominate someone, make sure you attend. Correct me if I'm wrong, board or troupe, but I think the bylaws state that you have to have attended at least three meetings in order to vote in the elections.

2008-07-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hello All Actors' Mission!

Well, I hope it's been as wonderful a summer for you as it has been for me. I admit that I've hesitated to turn away from my laid-back summer joys, but I realize its now time to gear up for what I believe will be an outstanding and important production.

On October 2, 3, 4 and 5, Actors' Mission will perform Moises Kaufman's and the Tectonic Theater Project's The Laramie Project. I am hoping that a good many of you will want to join me in a work that is not only timely, significant, and important to our town, state, and nation, but also one that touches the heart and calls us (and through us, our audience) to what binds and unites us as human beings.

The purpose of this email is to give you some basic information about the play and to send you a Tentative Schedule, including those all important audition dates. The Tentative Schedule is enclosed as an attachment. Remember it is tentative except for the auditions; there are bound to be mistakes and changes.

What you need to know about The Laramie Project right now.

What do people do and say when an incomprehensible and terrible event happens? And what if it happens not just in the news, at some safe and remote distance, but right in our town, in our state, where we can not brush it aside or choose to ignore it? The Laramie Project (or should I say the people of Laramie themselves) provides an answer to these questions.

The Laramie Project examines, as most people know, the aftermath of actual events that took place in Wyoming ten years ago, the brutal murder of Matthew Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student, by two local Laramie men about his own age. The crime was the subject of an immediate media frenzy, and most in Wyoming know many of the details surrounding Matthew's death and the subsequent trial. Many have opinions about the incident and especially about the notoriety the publicity brought to our state.

What many people do not know is that the play has as much to do with the reaction of the townspeople of Laramie to the tragedy as it is does with the tragedy itself. And most beautifully and poetically, it is told in the very words of the townspeople who lived through the experience. Let me explain.

Just after the murder, nine member of the Tectonic Theater Project including Moises Kaufman, traveled to Laramie from New York to collect interviews about the incident that would eventually become the material for this play. They were to return a total of seven times to the town, and would devote two years to writing The Laramie Project.

The result is a play that speaks to us in the every-day vernacular of ordinary people, real men and women of all ages and occupations, the citizens of Laramie. It is plain, direct speech, and it is sheer poetry. For those of us who live in Wyomng, we have the added pleasure of finding eloquence in the words of people we can relate to, that are familiar to us, our fellow citizens.

What about staging?

The staging of The Laramie Project is unusual. There are four male and four female actors (ranging in age from college-aged to middle-aged). Each of the eight actors will play multiple roles. Each will play one of the members of the Tectonic Theater Project, who came to Laramie to conduct the interviews. The actors will play not only their "New York" character but also up to eight or nine Laramie townspeople, presumably the individuals their character interviewed. The townspeople represent all types --- gay or straight, sympathic or heinous --- and include doctors, lawyers, students, professors, bartenders, friends of Matthew's, ranchers, a Catholic priest, the notorious Reverend Phelps, and so on.

The play is not written in scenes and acts. Instead, it is written in a string of vignettes which Kaufman calls "moments". The actors move in and out of these "moments" shifting from one character to another as called upon by the script. Costume is merely suggested, set and lighting rudimentary, and the action just streams from one "moment" to the next "moment".

This type of staging is going to be immensely challenging for everyone (especially me). Many productions have solved the problem by staging the play as a kind of Reader's Theater, you know, with stools like in our production of The Christmas Carol. Many have staged the play mostly as a Voice Play. You can view some of these efforts on Utube. My plan is to move our players in and out of the vignettes with a lot more staging than a Readers Theater or Voice Play. No actor will leave the stage, just move in and out of characters and "moments."

An Actors' Play

This play will be a great opportunity for our players. Because of the summer, I am a little worried I won't get enough of you to commit. Don't let this opportunity pass you up. It's a great play for actors.

How do you prepare for auditions? Well, you can borrow a book from me and read it. Also, attend the second movie viewing I've set up. Otherwise, you'll just have to trust me as I have you read various parts at auditions. Would you mind dropping me an email if you even remotely thinking of auditioning?

I am absolutely committed to open auditions. No casting decisions have even been thought about.

Commissioned Music

Nina Kessner has created an original body of work for this play. I plan to use this music in a way I'll explain later. It is just so moving to listen to it. Yes, it's in the polishing stage. This woman is a goddess.

Production Team and Community Interface Group

I have had some volunteers already. But for right now, I am looking for two groups to develop.

One will be the traditional Production Team, which will meet frequently to make plans and cover details. Nina Kessner will be a key player in this group as always. Other slots have kind of been volunteered for: House, Publicity, Art, Set, and so on. But nothing is totally decided, and there is plenty of room for both leaders and workers who want to get heavily involved but don't necessarily want to act. My suggestion if you fall into that category is that you show up at an audition and fill out a form. New, old, everyone is invited.

Another group I would like to form is the Community Interface Group. I am vague on how much we will do in this group, but it will be composed of community and Actors' Mission folk who would be interested in organizing an educational outreach component to go with our production. There will be several meetings, all listed tentatively on the schedule. I am looking for someone who would like to spearhead this group. I would also like to hear from anyone who would like to be a part of this group immediately via email.

Well, well, well, I have probably exhausted your patience. Please seriously consider getting involved in this production. I would love to hear from many of you so that I don't get paranoid about turnout and Actors' Mission enthusiasm for this production.

Thank you,
G (Dave Gutierrez)

Laramie Project Tentative Rehearsal Schedule
July, August, September, October 2008 Version Date 7/7/2008
Dave Gutierrez, Director

July 8 Tues Kick-off Email List, Blog
July 13 Sun Set Design Gutierrez
July 13 Sun Movie Viewing The Laramie Project Elks 4 PM List
July 14 Mon Community Interact Group Reliance 7 PM List, Invites
July 16 Wed Production Meeting Reliance 6 PM Appointed
July 17 Thurs AUDITIONS Elks 4 PM List, Newspaper Ad
July 19 Sat AUDITIONS Elks 2 PM List, Newspaper Ad
July 20 Sun AUDITIONS Elks 4 PM List, Newspaper Ad
July 21 Mon AUDITIONS Elks 6 PM List, Newspaper Ad
July 22 Tues AUDITIONS Elks 6 PM List, Newspaper Ad
July 24 Thurs Cast Announcement Phone, Posting, List
July 26 Sat Set Building Preliminary Meeting Elks 4 PM Set Crew
July 27 Sun Production Meeting Reliance 4 PM Heads
July 29 Tues Cast Meeting – Read Through Elks 7 PM Cast, Invites
Aug 4 Mon Blocking/Staging Plan Complete Gutierrez
Aug 4 Mon Production – Music Elks 7 PM Kessner, Invites
Aug 5 Tues Rehearsal – Character Coaching Elks 6:30 PM Certain Actors TBA
Aug 7 Thurs Rehearsal – Character Coaching Elks 6:30 PM Certain Actors TBA
Aug 8 Fri Set Construction Elks 6 PM Crew
Aug 9 Sat Set Construction Elks 3-8 PM Crew
Aug 11 Mon Rehearsal – Character Coaching Elks 6:30 PM Certain Actors TBA
Aug 13 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 15 Fri Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 16 Sat Set, Lighting Elks 3-8 PM Crew
Aug 18 Mon Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 19 Tues Community Interact Group Elks 7 PM Group
Aug 20 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 22 Fri Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 23 Sat Set, Lighting, Tech Elks 3-8 PM Crew
Aug 25 Mon Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 27 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Aug 29 Fri Rehearsal if Needed Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 1 Mon Rehearsal – OFF BOOK Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 3 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 5 Fri Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 6 Sat Production Meeting Elks 4 PM Group
Sept 8 Mon Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 10 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 12 Fri Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 13 Sat Costume, Props Elks 4 PM Crew
Sept 15 Mon Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 17 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 19 Fri Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 20 Sat Rehearsal if Needed Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 22 Mon Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 24 Wed Rehearsal Elks 6:30 PM Segments TBA
Sept 26 Fri Production Elks 2 PM Crew TBA
Complete Run-Through Elks 6 PM ALL CASTS/CREW
Sept 27 Sat Tech/Dress Elks 6 PM ALL CASTS/CREW
Sept 29 Mon Complete Run-Through Elks 6 PM ALL CASTS/CREW
Sept 30 Tues Complete Run-Through Elks 6 PM ALL CASTS/CREW
Oct 1 Wed Complete Run-Through Elks 6 PM ALL CASTS/CREW
Oct 2 Thurs PERFORMANCE Elks 5:30 PM CAST CALL
Oct 3 Fri PERFORMANCE Elks 5:30 PM CAST CALL
Oct 4 Sat PERFORMANCE Elks 5:30 PM CAST CALL
Oct 5 Sun PERFORMANCE-MATINEE Elks 12:30 AM CAST CALL

Couple Points of Interest

2008-06-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Hello troupe,
Feels like summer has hit Wyoming after all, yes?
Okay, couple quick things to let you know about: first- Board Meeting this Sunday at the Elk's at 3pm. Second thing: one of the things we'll brainstorm at that meeting is how to participate in the URA ball in September. Here's what we know: it's a "rock and roll" theme. We're not limited to any era. They want impersonators to greet guests ,mingle, and antagonzie the audience (in a respectful, rock and roll sort of way). They'd like participation throughout the evening, including possibly the auction. We talked about the possibility of acting like we can sing or perform like some famous band or other on a side stage at some point. So! Is there an Elvis out there? a Gene Simmons? a Beatle? Surely there's a Bob Dylan (there's always a Bob Dylan). What about Lil Mama, Lil Wayne, or any other Lils? Who can you be?

2008-06-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

Namaste Everyone!

So while everyone is off gardnening between snow flurries and barbecuing in the rain, I thought I'd share some great photos Donovan gave me of "All My Sons." This show by Arthur Miller ran prior to Death in a Nut's Hell.

Don't forget that Laramie Project will be starting up this summer, too, so make sure you leave space and time for that-Dave G. will write a post about it soon. Right, G-'ji?

So enjoy the photos and leave a comment!

Coming Up

2008-05-08T21:24:00.000-07:00

Hey there!

So, I think we agree that Death in a Nut's Hell was quite a success. Don't forget that we're inviting everyone to see HBO's version of "The Laramie Project" this Saturday at three at the Elks. Come watch even if you're not sure you'll audition-it's good fellowship and food, to be sure.
Reader's Committee (play selection) is up and running, so if you'd like to read plays and recommend next season's production, get involved-leave a comment or contact me and I'll put you in touch with who you need to be in touch with.
If anyone has pics they'd like to see up, email 'em to me and I'll change up the pretties.
So, now that some are looking here, does anyone have any post-production storytime, any thoughts for Laramie Project, anything at all to share?

Actors’ Mission Breaks Out the Bongos for Coffee House One-Acts

2008-04-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

The public is invited to attend “Death in a Nut’s Hell: a Date with Deathtiny.” The 22nd production of Actor’s Mission will showcase a night of four one-acts that will treat the audience to some comical views of death as well as a little experimental theater. The coffeehouse style atmosphere will include baristas making your favorite cappuccinos and lattes, biscotti, and bistro fare. Death in a Nut’s Hell also features three brand new directors with no prior experience whatsoever in herding amateur actors back and forth across the stage (thus the “experimental” theater).
But there is Kirsten Mundschenk, who previously directed “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “American Century.” Come see how she manages with Bob and Helen Dooley, a husband and wife seminarist team who will lecture the audience on emergency preparedness in “Tough Choices for the New Century” by Jane Anderson. The only question is, are Bob and Helen really qualified to lecture anyone on emergency preparedness? Mundschenk says of the production, “Wow. “ When prompted she adds, “Wow. The play really has kind of…taken on a life of its own.” In addition to her directing credits, Mundschenk has appeared in several Actors’ Mission productions, including “Inherit the Wind,” “Mother’s Day,” and “You Can’t Take It With You.”
Aaron Volner will present Woody Allen’s classic “Death Knocks.” Nat Ackerman’s quiet evening at home is disrupted by an unexpected visitor-a novice Grim Reaper with a flair for drama and a gambling addiction. Ned attempts to best the rookie demon in a game of cards for the biggest jackpot he can imagine-his soul. Volner has been involved with the Literate Nerd Society, has acted in several high school productions, and has joined Actors’ Mission for “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”, “You Can’t Take It With You” and “All My Sons.”
In Edward Albee’s “The Sandbox,” the audience will meet another persona of the Angel of Death-this time an amateur actor. Imagine that. In this surreal piece, Mommy and Daddy take Grandma out for a day at the beach-to leave her there to die. They even hire a musician to lend the proper solemnity to their unorthodox ritual. “The Sandbox” is directed by first time director Tom Zuehlsdorff who says, “Yeah, we’re way ahead of the other one-acts. I’m feelin’ pretty good about the whole thing.” Although he hasn’t quit his day job as a radio DJ, “Tommy Z” has portrayed Orson Welles in “A Christmas Carol,” Shiva in “Mother’s Day” and oddly enough, a radio guy in “Inherit the Wind.”
Kim Kirk makes her directing debut with Sam Shepard’s spoken word piece “Tongues.” Originally written for voice and percussion, Kirk’s vision has expanded the piece to combine live actors with video and musical accompaniment. But don’t worry-it’s not a musical. Kirk has previously acted in several productions as well, including “American Century, “Pariah,” “Mother’s Day,” and “You Can’t Take It With You.”
All performances will take place at the Elk’s Lodge on C Street. On May 1, 2, and 3, food will be served at 6pm with performances following at 7. There will be a final matinee performance on May 4th beginning at 2pm. Food will be served prior to the performance at 1. There is no charge for the food or entertainment, although donations are appreciated.
Actors’ Mission thanks Sweetwater BOCES for partially funding this evening of one-acts, produced by special arrangement with Dramatists’ Play Service and Samuel French, Inc. “Death in a Nut’s Hell” is also partially sponsored through the generosity of Haliburton and Domino’s Pizza.

Welcome to Actors Mission Blog

2008-04-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

Namaste, Everyone

As secretary of Actors' Mission, the local community theatre troupe here in Rock Springs, WY, I wanted a way for us to communicate with one another, and some folks we don't even know at this point, all about our goings on, productions, events, and other points of interest. One way would've been some kind of newsletter, but this is much more interactive, much more fun and interesting. At least until our website is developed.

So here is the first post on the Actors' Mission blog site. Feel most welcome to leave comments, do whatever it is people do on these sites. That's where the real fun will be. I hope that you visit often, leave your mark, and tell your friends about this-we'll use it as a way to publish information, expand resources and connections, discuss productions and the direction of the troupe, maybe even offer some constructive analysis. But, to any who choose to leave comments, or "blog" as they say, please remember that we want to be respectful and courteous.

So let me begin by posing (or "posting", I guess) something for you to think about and add to. As a lot of you know, we're gearing up for opening night of "Death in a Nut's Hell"-four one-acts, three of them comedies, about death. So what kinds of interesting experiences have you had with death, either within or without the scope of this production?