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Ivoryton Playhouse Celebrates Female Voices – October 28th, 2023

Ivoryton, CT– Ivoryton Playhouse is proud to present the 6th Annual Ivoryton Women Playwrights Festival, a celebration of the creativity and vision of women in theatre. The festival will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023. This all-day event will showcase four outstanding new short plays, engaging talkbacks with playwrights, directors, and actors, and an insightful panel discussion co-hosted by the CT Chapter of the League of Professional Theatre Women and the Dramatist Guild.

Event Details:· Date: October 28, 2023· Time: 2:00 pm · Venue: Ivoryton Playhouse· Ticket Price: $30 Adults/ $25 Seniors/ $20 LPTW Members & Dramatist Guild members/ $10 Student· Website: Ivorytonplayhouse.org· Box Office: 860.767.7318

The four-play lineup was selected from over 200 submissions. The featured plays are:

“Holidays” by Romney S. Humphrey, directed by Carol Ziske: A heartwarming and hilarious exploration of blended family dynamics, “Holidays” takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as an impromptu family gathering develops into a competition for designated holidays. Humphrey’s poignant storytelling invites us to reflect on the challenges of blended families and the collective desire for perfect gatherings in an imperfect world.

“Like the Last” by D.L. Siegel, directed by Andrea Andresakis: Women in Kokoro's family don't make it to their 30th birthdays. So, at 29 and counting, she is on a mission to make every moment count while leaving as few grieving hearts behind as possible. But as the countdown nears, Kokoro must reimagine what it means to live every moment like your last. In a beautifully woven narrative, Siegel captures moments of love, loss, and our profound impact on one another.

“Organic” by Jenna Jane, directed by Leslie Snow: “Organic” is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between technology and human nature. In a future where everyone is enhancing their bodies with the latest tech, 81-year-old Donna Goldman is an anomaly; she is 100% organic. But now there’s a problem: she’s dying. Will “fully enhanced” Dr. Flores persuade her to abandon her sense of self to survive? As we navigate the boundaries of innovation, “Organic” prompts us to question what it truly means to be ourselves.

“Swiped” by Samara Siskind, directed by Rae Janeil: In a digital age, “Swiped” takes a witty approach to the world of modern romance when a young black man strikes up a conversation with a young white woman while dining in the food court of a suburban shopping mall. What initially appears to be a random pick-up attempt becomes much more complicated. Perhaps they’re not strangers after all. Siskind’s play challenges us to look at our own implicit bias and offers a fresh perspective on the search for love in an era dominated by screens and swipes.

This year's festival will also feature an off-site panel discussion generously sponsored by the CT Chapter of the League of Professional Theatre Women and co-hosted by the CT-LPTW and the Dramatist Guild. "Breaking In and Breaking Glass Ceilings - Where We Were, Where We Are and Where We Are Going" is a conversation among three female theatre professionals: one seasoned, one mid-career, and one emerging theatre maker, exploring what's changed for the positive, what challenges still exist for women in theatre and how we can work together to continue making improvements. *Due to limited space, attendance at the panel will only be for Festival ticket holders.

GATHER AGAIN, Ivoryton’s local antique boutique has generously offered its warm and beautiful space for the panel discussion. GATHER AGAIN is located across the street from the Playhouse at 104 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT.

“We are excited to bring together these remarkable plays that explore a wide range of themes, from complex family dynamics to technological ethics, all with a focus on female voices,” said Playhouse Artistic/Executive Director Jacqui Hubbard. “These plays will undoubtedly resonate with our audience, sparking important conversations and fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of playwriting.”

This event is made possible by generous support from the CT-LPTW, the Community Foundation of Middlesex County, and the Sari A. Rosenbaum Fund for Women and Girls.

Celebrate the Freedom to Read During Banned Books Week (October 1-7)The Color Purple and Other Works for Underrepresented Voices

Ivoryton, CT — Banned Books Week is an annual celebration of the freedom to read and the importance of preserving our access to diverse literary voices. This autumn, Ivoryton Playhouse is focused on acknowledging and celebrating classic works by underrepresented voices, such as The Color Purple by Alice Walker, which has faced censorship challenges over the years.

The Color Purple, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, is a poignant exploration of the African American experience through the eyes of Celie, a resilient woman who overcomes adversity and finds her voice. However, like many other seminal works authored by underrepresented voices, this powerful novel has been the subject of bans and challenges, often due to its frank portrayal of sensitive themes.

Banned Books Week (October 1 – 7) serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for intellectual freedom and the need to protect the right to read. Literature has the extraordinary power to enlighten, inspire, and challenge our perspectives, and we must defend these voices that have often been marginalized and underrepresented.

In a time when the world is striving for greater inclusivity and understanding, censoring literature reflecting diverse communities' experiences stifles our collective progress. By preserving classic works like The Color Purple and other masterpieces by underrepresented voices, we ensure that future generations can explore the richness of human experience in all its forms. Here is a list of just a few other often-challenged notable works authored by Black women who have used their voices to shed light on marginalized communities:

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings – Maya AngelouBeloved – Toni MorrisonThe 1619 Project – Nikole Hannah JonesGrown – Tiffany D. JacksonSulwe – Lupita Nyong’oThe New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness – Michelle Alexander

Join us during Banned Books Week as we celebrate the freedom to read and engage. Together, we can champion intellectual freedom, diversity, and the power of literature to bridge gaps and foster empathy. Find more information on Banned Books Week on the American Library Association’s website: www.ala.org

See The Color Purple: The Musical at Ivoryton Playhouse on stage until October 15th.

Performance Schedule:

Tickets are $60 for adults, $55 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tickets are available online at ivorytonplayhouse.org or through the box office at 860.767.7318. (For information on group rates, please call the box office.) The Playhouse is located at 103 Main Street in Ivoryton.

About Ivoryton Playhouse: Ivoryton Playhouse is a renowned small professional theatre in South Central Connecticut. For many years, it has been a beacon of creativity, culture, and intimate theatrical engagement. The theatre is committed to presenting exceptional productions and creating unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages.

For more information, interviews, and press inquiries, please contact:Ben Hope, Executive Producer - [email protected]. 321.303.0110

IVORYTON PLAYHOUSE and PRIVE SWISS WELLNESS present:

The Sound of MusicDirected by Jacqueline HubbardStarring David Pittsinger, Adrianne Hick, and Patricia Schuman

The hills are alive with the sound of music once again as the beloved musical, The Sound of Music, makes its triumphant return to the Ivoryton stage. This timeless production is captivating audiences with its heartwarming story and unforgettable melodies.

Tickets are $60 for adults, $55 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tickets are available online at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling the box office at 860.767.7318. For information on group rates, please call the box office.

The production boasts a stellar creative team, including award-winning director Jacqueline Hubbard, Francesca Webster as choreographer, and musical director Mark Cappetelli. Kate Bunce designed the costumes, Cully Long the set, and Marcus Abbott the lights. With their expertise and vision, they have crafted a production that honors the spirit of the original Broadway show while offering a fresh and engaging experience for audiences of all ages. James Joseph Clark* is the Stage Manager and Rahxas Colite* Assistant Stage Manager. Elizabeth Saylor is the wig designer.

In addition to stellar performances by David Pittsinger and Adrianne Hick, the cast features a talented ensemble of performers who bring the beloved characters to life, including the highly acclaimed soprano Patricia Schuman in the role of The Mother Abbess and a host of talented local kids to play the adorable von Trapp children. Joining them are favorites R. Bruce Connelly as Max and Beverley [Taylor] Ricci as the Baroness. The entire cast is dedicated to delivering a truly memorable theatrical experience.

The Sound of Music runs through July 30th. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Tickets are $60 for adults, $55 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tickets are available online at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling the box office at 860.767.7318.

For more information on our 2023 season, visit ivorytonplayhouse.org

THE SOUND OF MUSIC is sponsored by Prive Swiss Wellness.

It is the year of the coronation of King Charles III, but here in Ivoryton we have been celebrating with our own Royal Families. The Queens of Georgia McBride have waved their majestic goodbyes and close on their heels come two crowned heads of the Broadway stage – Tony award nominated Mia Dillon* and Tony award winner James Naughton* in ON GOLDEN POND by Ernest Thompson. What a treat and a magnificent honor!

Mia Dillon will be taking on the role of Ethel Thayer, a role made famous by Katharine Hepburn in the Oscar winning movie. Mia, who was nominated for a Tony for her critically acclaimed role in Beth Henley’s CRIMES OF THE HEART, can be caught on the silver screen right now in the beautiful new adaptation of Judy Blume’s novel Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret.

James Naughton is the winner of two Tony Awards as Best Actor in a Musical, for his portrayal of media-savvy lawyer Billy Flynn in the Broadway hit CHICAGO (1997) and for his role as a film-noir era detective in CITY OF ANGELS (1990), which earned him a Drama Desk Award. James has appeared in many movies including The Devil Wears Prada, First Wives Club, and The Glass Menagerie with Joanne Woodward. TV appearances include Planet of the Apes, Who’s The Boss?, Gossip Girl and most recently, Just Like That, with Sara Jessica Parker.

The first Broadway production of ON GOLDEN POND opened at the New Apollo Theatre in February 1979 and starred Tom Aldredge as Norman Thayer and Frances Sternhagen as Ethel Thayer. Ernest Thompson adapted his script into the screenplay play for the movie that opened in 1982 and garnered three Oscars – one for Thompson for the screenplay and best actor Oscars for its stars, Katharine Hepburn and Henry Fonda.

The story of ON GOLDEN POND begins with the arrival of an old, long-married couple at the lakeside cottage where they have summered for many years. Before long, three more people turn up at the pond: their daughter, her fiancé and his son. As the story unfolds, old conflicts are unearthed, new relationships are formed but, more than anything, we get a rare glimpse inside a long and enduring marriage – a rare gift.

Brian Feehan directs this tender and heart warming treasure that also features Stacie Morgain Lewis* as Chelsea, Josh Powell* as Bill Ray, Will Clark* as Charlie and Sabatino Cruz as Billy Ray Jr.

Set and lighting is designed by Marcus Abbott, costumes by Kat Duffner, and sound design by Alan Piotrowicz.

Ernest Thompson, the writer of ON GOLDEN POND, will be joining us at the performance on Sunday, May 21st for a talk-back. He will also be appearing at The Kate on Monday, May 22nd at 7:00pm for a Museum Talk about his experiences making the film with Hepburn and Fonda.

And so our Royal season continues…Let the trumpets sound and the flags wave – it is a Royal Spring in Ivoryton!

ON GOLDEN POND runs from May 18 through June11, 2023. Performance times are Wednesday and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm; evening performances are Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm.

Tickets are $55 for adults, $50 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tickets are available online at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling the box office at 860.767.7318. For information on group rates, please call the box office. For more information on the entire 2023 season, visit ivorytonplayhouse.org

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Arts & Entertainment

Musicals for families and romantics, stories of challenges overcome and evenings that are just plain fun are included in the new season.

Ivoryton: On April 6, 2023, The Ivoryton Playhouse opens its doors for a stellar new season - a year full of exciting, uplifting and affordable professional theatre. Musicals for families and romantics, stories of challenges overcome and evenings that are just plain fun, our 2023 Season has a little bit of everything and something extra! A great melting pot of a season in a theatre that feels like home

The season opens on April 6, 2023 with a big hearted, music-filled comedy. THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA McBRIDE by Matthew Lopez is a wildly entertaining story filled with drag queens and an Elvis impersonator, snappy zingers and dance worthy numbers. A show that will challenge your assumptions with extraordinary humor and depth.

Ernest Thompsons’s charming and nostalgic play, ON GOLDEN POND will open on May 18, 2023. The movie was a big hit for one of the Playhouse’s most famous alums – Katharine Hepburn – and the play is a beautifully crafted love story about generations of a family struggling to show affection for each other. Heartwarming and hilarious, this is a play filled magic and memorable moments.

The summer opens on June 29, 2023 with one of the most beloved musicals of all time, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s THE SOUND OF MUSIC. The glorious melodies and timeless tale of Maria and the Von Trapps makes this the perfect musical for the whole family. Featuring Ivoryton favorites, last seen together in SOUTH PACIFIC, David Pittsinger, Patricia Schuman, Adrianne Hick and Bruce Connelly. You don’t need to “Climb Every Mountain” to see this show, but you better get your tickets early!

JERSEY BOYS, the international musical phenomenon, opens in Ivoryton on August 10, 2023. Come peek behind the scenes - and behind the music - of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Filled with all of their greatest hits, “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and so many more. No wonder that, for over 15 years, America’s favorite musical is the one about the boys from Jersey.

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THE COLOR PURPLE, which opens on September 28, 2023, is an inspiring saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who, through love, finds strength to triumph over adversity and discover her voice in the world. This musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel (and 1985 Steven Spielberg film) spotlights Celie, a downtrodden young woman whose personal awakening over the course of 40 years forms the arc of this epic story. With a joyous score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, African music and blues, THE COLOR PURPLE is a story of hope, a testament to the healing power of love, and a celebration of life.

The Playhouse Holiday Show will round off the season, opening on November 16, 2023. At this time, the title is still a secret but we are hoping to be able to announce it by the end of this year.

We will be taking a long winter’s nap to get ready for this sensational season but you can purchase gift certificates and subscriptions now. Subscriptions are a great way to save money as single ticket prices will be going up for our three summer musicals. Six and three play subscriptions are available. Single tickets will go on sale March 1, 2023. Visit www.ivorytonplayhouse.org or call (860) 767 7318 for the latest ticket information.

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