We're not "little" anymore


Therefore the Board of Directors is proud to announce that



is now

Venice Theatre

Our hard work and dedication have made us what we are today --
the third largest community theatre in the United States.

The final curtain of the Hobbit came down last Sunday afternoon at the Venice Beach. Thanks to Denelle  & Dave, Dave & Kathleen, Linda Mounce, Deb, Phil & Linda for helping with the extra goodies.
I will work with all of you again, I will see you in classes but somehow it won't be the same. Another closing, another opening. A life in theatre. But the Hobbit production was something extraordinary. Look out for each other, listen to your Mom and Dads and have a safe and joyous summer. And remember . . .

We will always be United!

Okay -- everything is set.  You buy a green ticket from Ron or one of the Hobbit Moms for $2.50 and then you can go to the stand for your Hamburger/Hot Dog, chips, soda and a Snow cone.  There'll be other stuff there to eat and drink as well. Let's all try to meet by the snack shop area, so we can decide what patch of Beach will be ours!!!!

MEMBER:
Sun screen.
Plastic blow-up things.
Chairs. Umbrellas. Towels.

NEWS: Lunch has been dealt with: Lunch costs 2.50 (moms and dads, I don't know if this is for adults yet)  this includes Hamburger or hot dog, chips, soda and an ice cream treat. Tell your moms and dads. The Venice Pavilion will be providing our meal.

If you're coming, ya gotta let me know for the head count by this afternoon

VENICE BEACH AT NOON THIS SATURDAY JUNE 7, 2008
E-mail me kids if you are coming
I need a head count for lunches
rkm5@verizon.net.  Someone call Logan's email was returned.
Syd's got Music... who can help her with that??

KIDS WHO ARE GOING
Jaz
Syd
Hannah with an H
Tim is bringing a volley ball
Brant
Pariesa
Zack
Hayley
Reece
Kenzie
Joe
Ally (late)
Kimmy
Roxanne
Summer
Tony
Hunter
Ryan
Kaitlyn

MOMS WHO ARE BRINGING . . .
Denelle is bringing water
Deb is bringing extra munchies
Linda D. is also bringing water
Kathleen is bringing WATERMELON!!!!
Hannah is bring a dessert.

KIDS WHO ARE NOT COMING
Patrick in Michigan
Jake in Ohio
Taylor
Shane in North Carolina

COUNTDOWN TO ADVENTURE




MySpace Countdown Clocks

It cannot be done today as I had hoped. Scripts will now be passed out at the cast party or on the Sunday we read the play. I apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.

director dude

Okay we've gotten lunch taken care of but we need a head count!

You know the drill E-Mail me if you're going to the cast party! So we can know how many lunch tickets to get.
Deb, Marcia, Denelle, Monica, Kathleen, If you guys can help give me a call after seven tonight.
485-3026
We'll need water, and some planned activities, and maybe some munchies.
If you have ideas, bring 'em on!!

BEACH PARTY 2008 is good to go!!

rkm5@verizon.net

HOBBIT CAST PARTY
This Saturday 7th at Noon -Three
Venice Beach
We're working on food and extras at the moment
if any Hobbit Moms want to help call Ron after 5:00 at 485-3026

The Players Theatre 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, will host a reflection and celebration in the memory of The Players Theatre volunteer actor and supporter Robert Atkins on June 1, 2008 from 7-9 PM.

Atkins passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 24, 2008.  He performed in many roles both on and off stage at The Players Theatre including roles in: Little Shop Of Horrors, Fame, Driving Miss Daisy and a host of other shows.  He also starred in productions at The Manatee Players such as Tom Sawyer and The Shadow Box.  Additionally, he was a member of the Asolo Theatre Company performing in I'm not Rappaport and To Kill A Mockingbird.

Atkins was a veteran of the Vietnam War and a community leader.  He mentored kids at The Boys and Girls Club, served as an umpire for Little League Baseball, announced Football Games for the Police Athletic League, and was the head coach of the PAL Junior Varsity Buccaneers.  Atkins was also known locally as a Disc Jockey and spent years working with large advertising companies and corporate executives on programming promotions and product placement in motion pictures and radio stations in Europe.

With the beautiful and talented Amber Suleskey

VLT is entering Moliere's classic French farce The School for Wives in this years Florida Theatre Conference. We last did this wonderful piece as  apart of the 2007-2008 season. We will be opening our show at The Player's theatre in Sarasota on Monday October 6th, 2008. The favor is returned on Monday October 20th when The Player's entry into the competition will open for us at VLT. This will be the first year that The Players have entered the competition. Pam Wiley will be directing The Players Artistic Director Jeffery Kin's original play. It's always exciting to see a new play launched.  Remember Community theatre means just that, we are all here to support each other so check out The Players

Ok, Mama Mounce just informed me there is a conflicting party on that day .... so next available time is Saturday June 7th Noon at my home. Parents welcomed and encouraged to help. My day number is 371-1003. Home number is 485-3026!
Director Dude.

	The Hobbit closed on Sunday May 18th with a full house and a standing ovation. We had a very successful run with good press and support from VLT's remarkable staff. Kudos go to Sandie Henderson, Jasmine Deal, Denelle Balliet, Deb Polk and the entire cast.   We all take away moments from shows and with the Hobbit there are many. Zach in a dress. The film you guys took when I went to the bathroom. The creation of the battle scene. Mr. Scott's Sean Connery impression. My endless rah-rah speeches. Working in the small rehearsal hall with 20 people. The humor. Jazz always at the ready with music cues.The craziness at the auditions. And the wonderful reality that we made good friends, no one fought, everyone worked hard and we even saw some romances bloom.    Next time you see Dorian in the halls, roar at him. He did a wonderful job not only doing the voice of Smaug but in the creation of the beast itself. Along with Donna Buckalter, our tireless scenic designer, they truly created magic on stage. You might want to thank Mark Dukes also. He did more for our show then the cast realizes. He was the go-to-man and never failed us. I will remember this show forever not because it was my first but because you fine young actors made this journey the best of my life.
"In the Theater, a lifetime is      a season, and a season a lifetime." All about Eve And all good things come to an end. Our magnificent set came down about an hour and a half after we closed. I'm so glad we took things like the mushrooms. Great idea Reece. Kenzie got one too, which went along with her character and the pony debacle. I will never forget the look on Tim's face when I gave him the sword at the end. It's glowing with pride. Tony and Zach's quill and sword fight makes me giggle to this day. Patrick's "Excellent" and Hayley's "I'm here!" Boy, Logan really got going with the "Well, it's been long enough." speech. Kaitlyn, Rox and Jaz dancing around the Trolls and that wicked laugh of hers. Charlie getting a stand-alone applause mid-show. Kimmy got applause after each dance. Jaker's snorts. My inability to say Dwalin. Ella always getting a laugh on the spider joke. "Oy" from Hannah.  Taylor's perfect comic timing, "I am!" Hunter's "Is this the same hobbit who was lost without his pocket hankie". Timmy and Patrick's stare down. Brant's "O, right". "Always room for Fuzzy creature" Pariesa made me laugh every night. Reece and Summer's hungry scene always got a laugh. Those steep stairs. Shane's ear- splitting scream night after night. Ally stepping in for Frenchie. Syd and Jaz at rehearsal two before hand. Rox and her poems. Tony's girly-man scream.
	The echoes in the caves. "What's that --- like chicken" The night we were dressed up and no photographer. Finishing Pillowman and going head long into the Hobbit. We must have been crazy "Hayley, Tony and Patrick." Ryan kept getting more roles. The look on the guys faces when they saw what a dance belt really was. Patrick's beard coming off and his  mooning. And Hunter bringing him down . . with a baby kick. These may not be great moments but they make me laugh. "Icoudkil'imyermajesty" The Dragon when it almost bite off Kim Cool's head. Missing Frenchie. The jerk taking pictures in the audience. Being up till 4 am playing Call of Doo-doo. Hayley's cough. CAST PARTY SATURDAY MAY 31st Details to follow. I will need help!  Hobbit Moms to the rescue!!

Take two journeys to Middle-earth

It’s a good week for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s perennially popular novel “The Hobbit,” with dueling stage productions that tell the story in vastly different ways.

The Sarasota Youth Opera presents two weekend performances of Dean Burry’s musical version written for young voices, while the Venice Little Theatre begins a 10-day run of a play version tonight.

“I think it’s great that people can see both versions,” said Ronald Myroup, director of Patricia Gray’s play in Venice. “I’m sure kids are going to love them. I’ve been a lifelong fan of ‘The Hobbit,’ and the kids love it, too.”

Martha Collins, the Youth Opera stage director, said her young cast members are equally enthusiastic.

“They love this story,” she said. “All you have to tell them is you’re a goblin, and they’re so into it. It’s really staging itself very quickly.”

Both versions share the story of the journey taken by the young hobbit Bilbo Baggins to help the dwarves regain their land and a golden treasure taken by the dragon Smaug.

“They go to the Lonely Mountain; they encounter the spider and the wargs” and other enemies, Collins said. “The opera has kept almost every encounter that occurs in the book.”

Musical director Lance Inouye said Burry’s score covers a range of styles, from straight opera to chants for the children.

“It’s a really unique experience for us as well as the kids because there are things that I’ve never encountered,” Inouye said. “I have to conduct them doing different sound effects, like dripping sounds and hissing sound effects.”

Both Collins and Myroup said their versions are uplifting and positive experiences for young audiences.

“We know the heroes are going to be OK,” Myroup said. “Gandalf uses his power to pull Bilbo into the search for the treasure, and he becomes a strong person in the process.”

Myroup’s large cast features Tony DeNiro as Bilbo, Patrick Mounce as Gandalf and Hayley Balliet as Thorin, the dwarf leader.

In the Youth Opera version, Brooke Saba and Maria Sulimir-ski alternate in the role of Bilbo, while Sarasota Opera studio artist Jeremy Milner plays both Gandalf and Smaug.

Audiences also will encounter Gollum, the Middle-earth creature who was a favorite in the “Lord of the Rings” films.

“He’s a creepy little goblin and he’s also insane,” Inouye said. In the opera, he is played “as though he is a puppet, but the chorus sings all the parts of his insanity, so they’re all involved in playing Gollum. There’s quite a lot of power on the stage at that moment.”

Burry, who lives in Toronto, was commissioned by the Canadian Children’s Opera Chorus to create a piece for young voices. He decided on “The Hobbit,” one of his favorite childhood stories, because it is “a great straightforward rollicking adventure story. It touches on race relations, differences between leading a simplistic life and complicated life, and opening your eyes.”

It also helps that there is music built into the story, which made it easier to adapt, he said.

His version had its premiere in 2004, but the Sarasota production will feature the premiere of a new orchestration for a chamber ensemble.

“This is a new kind of version,” he said. “When we did it in Toronto, it was a long one-act opera. We’re doing this one in two acts. And the Sarasota Opera commissioned new orchestrations for about 12 players. It’s going to be nice to have that larger musical support.”

NOTE: This is the corrected version. The newspaper copy has mistakes. Like mixing up Shane with Charlie and leaving out Ms. Hayley. I fixed it here for you.

Peace and brotherhood reign in 'The Hobbit' at Venice Little Theatre

If hundreds of dwarves, a gazillion elves, a Hobbit burglar, stern elfin queen, a wizard, fairies and trolls and a fuzzy creature somehow manage to work together in the Middle Earth to slay the evil dragon named Smaug, there may be hope for the world after all.

That is the short and sweet version of J.R.R. Tolkien's story, "The Hobbit," which opened Thursday night, May 8 at the Venice Little Theatre.

Playing the role of Bilbo Baggins, the Hobbit, was Tony DeNiro, in his sixth appearance at the VLT. Patrick Mounce portrayed Gandolf, the Wizard, who orchestrated the dragon slaying adventure and, by his absence and then reappearance with a burst of sparklers, brought harmony to the mythical place, and even to Thorin, leader of the Dwarves (Hayley Balliet), and Queen Inwa Anwarunya Greenleaf of Mirkwood (Kaitlyn Terpstra).

Portraying the elves were Hunter Cross, Timmy Polk, Hannah Betterton, Taylor Whitehead, Kenzie Balliet and Logan Yates. Shane Oss was Goullum. Roxanne Military and Jasmine Deal played the roles of Princess Elanesse and Princess Neinna. Jake Fricke was the Great Goblin, sirius and Ryan Scot was Poor Mule, Grocery Hobbit and Lord Puck.

Monica Kennedy, Joseph Pantera and Denelle Balliet were the nasty old trolls and the elves and the Goblin Menace were played by Pariesa Young, Ally Tufenkjian, Sydney Deal, Brant Biskup and Zachary Tudor, with Kimmy Curhan as the Fairy of the Mist and Ella Kennedy as Shadow.

The fairies of Milkwood were portrayed by Summer Hollerbach and Reese Balliet, who was an amazingly hungry little creature with a smirk and devilish grin to match her character's appetite.

Directed by Ron Myroup in a setting designed to perfection by Donna Buckalter, with costumes by Nicholas Hartman, sound by Jaclyn Ledoux and Lighting by Alise Hart, this merry band presented one of the all-time great Theatre for Young People productions. Every one of these characters delivered on cue and in character to the delight of the opening night audience. But it was Shane Oss who stole the show in the first act as he rafted out onto the stage and slithered, slipped, rolled and hissed his way around the stage searching for his lost ring. Growing up at VLT, he had to have made his theater family proud of him for this performance.

In the second act, there was another scene stealer, one that must be seen and experienced.

Kudos to all for a great show, which even included a dramatic curtain speech by the director. There is dance, movement, menacing characters, some mayhem and most all, magic in this production.

"The Hobbit" will play through Mat 18 at the VLT, 140 W. Tampa Ave., on the island n downtown Venice. General adission tickets are $12 per person. To order, visit www.venicestage.com or call the box office at 941-488-1115.

By Kim Cool

And here we are. We have had a journey just like Bilbo, Thorin and company.  And you too have had a mad wizard
guiding your path all the way.

Today is your Independence Day. From this moment forward your show is just that -- your show (under the guidance of Sandie, and the Hobbit Moms, Denelle and Deb)


Use Volume. Stay Focused. Strive for Diction.

I do believe this show will go down in history as one  of the most important Generations productions ever.

You have all made my heart sing.

See ya tonight!!!



 

We're on the right track
Keep at it, we have two more shows before a preview audience.
Remember
Volume
Cue-pick up
Diction

Select your performance	Time	Seats	Buy	Preview
Thursday 05/08/08	7:00PM	47	Buy	Preview
Friday 05/09/08	7:00PM	14	Buy	Preview
Saturday 05/10/08	2:00PM	66	Buy	Preview
Saturday 05/10/08	7:00PM	26	Buy	Preview
Sunday 05/11/08	2:00PM	68	Buy	Preview
Thursday 05/15/08	7:00PM	81	Buy	Preview
Friday 05/16/08	7:00PM	83	Buy	Preview
Saturday 05/17/08	2:00PM	77	Buy	Preview
Saturday 05/17/08	7:00PM	80	Buy	Preview
Sunday 05/18/08	2:00PM	69	Buy	Preview

General Notes:

I want to do a run-thru this Saturday at Three o’clock (3-7pm) instead of 7:00-10:00pm. Can you make it???

Tonight we're doing scene work!! But we do not need Shane, Kimmy, Monica, Reese, Ella, Joe, Charlie and Summer

Cast Don’t turn your head and speak at the same time. Your spraying the dialogue and no one can understand what you just said.

PICK UP YOUR CUES!!

All of you are just saying your lines, you’re not having conversations.  Mentally pick who you are speaking to and commit to that.

Pat:        It’s escape . . . not ex-cape. Ex-cape is a robe that used to be a     cape.
             Murray caught the Bill & Ted’ “Excellent” Change it.
             GOODMORNINGED (practice this Pat)

There is a big difference between Pacing a scene and rushing it. Good pacing clips the scene along when everyone PICKS UP THEIR CUES. Rushing is spitting out the words at a fast rate. Understand the difference.

Hayley: You and I are going to decide which two times Thorin loses it. For the rest of the play turn your intense anger into sarcasm. Instead of ‘losing it’ smile and sweetly say the nasty line. I think this will be fun for you to do. And I know you can do it.  Imagine when you’re talking to Gandalf toward the end. “So I’ll bet you’re here for your share.”

Play the scene -- just don’t get your lines out

YOU ARE ALL SLOW ON YOUR ENTRANCES. GET THE LEAD OUT! MOVE!

Forget about the last five weeks and just play tonight.  We need a sense of fun.



Act 1 Scene 1

THE SCENE IS ABOUT GANDALF TRAPPING BILBO.

FOR THE DWARVES THE SCENE IS ABOUT GETTING A GOOD BURGLAR. They don’t know he stinks yet.


The first scene needs to snap. Cue pickup is most imporant. What is the purpose. What does each characater want?  Dwarves get interested in what’s going on here.  When do you start to suspect Bilbo’s not what you expected in a burglar. When does fear begin to set into Bilbo.

Ryan: (ount the dwarves as you circle and then say “Hundreds”

Patrick: You are not commanding enough in first 2 scenes.

Hannah:  You’re making too much of “He’s want to know his chances.”  She’s almost kidding him here. Like she agrees with him, yea you wanna know much money you’re getting, Dude. Me too. You think you understand him.

Tony:    Commit to the asides (speaking to the audience): “So I have been deceived.”  When you’re alone on stage, you’re speaking to the audience. Commit to that. “what have I gotten myself into?”

Tony:    (turn and say) My bolley (turn then say) My purse (turn)
Understand?

Hunter and Timmy: Volume and clarity.


Act 1 Scene 2

THE SCENE IS ABOUT THE DANGERS OF THEIR ADVENTURE. Everyone be afraid, suspicious and aware of your surroundings.


diction
1 the style of enunciation in speaking or singing : she began imitating his careful diction.

Tony:     Diction
Logan:     Diction
Kenzie:     Slow down and speak clearly

All of you THINK before you speak! 

Where were the Dwarves before the scene begins?

The Cakes Scene needs to build the tension

I need a reaction from “Roasted Hobbit”

The Pony Scene
Kenize you’re just telling a story “ We took them down to water, like you said” Don’t be guilty right off the bat. Make it more of as-a-matter-of-fact!

THORIN: Did you stay with them (firm but not angry)

Kenzie (Squirming) I did . . . until they  were settled.

Kenize and Hayley, it is a conversation, talk to each other don’t rush it.

HAYLEY you are not angry during this scene. You’re a good leader and you know “Things like this happen.”

Trolls where have you just been?

Joe, Monica and Denelle more eye contact.

Tony stand and run to Gandalf instead of on your knees, then collaspe at his feet.

Patrick when you come in to kill the Trolls you must be powerful, loud and forceful.

Roxanne and Jazz be loud and clear on “Maypole, Oak etc.” turn to the audience and say it right to them

Eager to see map, Dwarves.

All Dwarves must be involved with what is going on and what is being said.

Hayley be aware of who you are talking to at any given moment.


Act 1 Scene 3

FOR THE DWARVES THE SCENE IS ABOUT SURVIVING THE GOBLINS. FOR THE GOBLINS IT IS ABOUT GETTING SOME FAST FOOD before heading out to the Goblin disco.

Jakers and Ryan Clean up your comic bit, I couldn’t understand it.
Ryan be on Jake’s left from the beginning.

BATTLE

WE HAD NO BATTLE FACES LAST NIGHT.

Finish the moves. Complete the act of stabbing, swinging the sword.

Jake: Five short snorts. Make them distinctive.

You’re not completely the moves - follow through with everything you do.
     
Shane: Toward the end of the scene your words got mumbly.  Also. Your final scream “Gollum” Play that centerstage and them use your raft to exit the scene.

Bilbo loves being invisible. Show me how much you love being invisible.

Act 2 Bits

Re-Block Queen’s entrance

Thorin move forward before they say halt.

Jail Scene is too loud Thorin, the Elves might hear you.

Zack “I could kill him your majesty”  Speak slowly and loudly. I still can’t understand you.

Taylor “I can’t go another step” Try to take another step and then collaspe.

Zack: Announce the line  “Their serving Fuzzy Creature in an Apple sauce”, it still has to be louder and clearer.
Hayley.

Jazz and Kaitlyn work with Roxanne on her dicition and volume.

Jakers and Ryan work with the Goblins on Battle faces.

Murray made the comment. "Who are they talking to." Because he didn't feel there were conversations going on.

So when you enter a scene tonight.

Its . . .

what is the scene about?

How do I feel?

Who am I talking to.

PS. This is how the brain works. I had another dream early this morning. Not as a wacky as the last one but it really shows you how us human work. Hayley and I were in a big elegant mansion. And there were brain-eating zombies outside and we were really scared to go outside. That's it. Ya just got to wonder about that?

Hayley I know how to fix this. I'm not scared and you shouldn't be either, you're a heck of an actress. All of you are doing well -- but we can do better and we're going to.

Your Director Dude

Our scenic designers loved the show last night. I, on the other hand, know you will do better. I believe in you.

Thank you for welcoming Melissa Jones.

Ella don’t forget to stalk Charlie in Act One top before exiting through the stone archway. Take your time. Charlie. I want you to remain on all fours -- at all times, you keep forgetting this.

Joe keep your head down the first time Gandalf speak, that has to be louder Patrick.  Monica and Denella remember after the Elven queen’s scene (we go to black) you both will turn the set piece counter-clockwise.

Focus tonight. Remember volume.

Hayley find the moments when he does go a little nuts.  But you cannot start out screaming mad and stay that way -- no one can, I mean if they did they’d be Psycho Dwarf. Don’t be psycho!!

Patrick pick it up, you’re pullling your lines, drawing them out and adding pauses. You know this guy.

Timmy head up.

All of you be aware of your spacing.

Make me proud!!

Last night --->  . . . silly kids . . . . silly director dude

I AM SO PROUD OF YOU ALL!

Let's all say a big prayer for Jazz, Syd,  Ella and Miss Monica so they come back to us soon. We miss them!! And also that Frenchie feels better too.

Hopefully we'll see Rozanne's shining face too!

VOLUME is very important now! As the set gets built it will absorb your voices. SPEAK CLEARLY!

Wow it is a bigger area than what we're used to but you all did very well. Surprisingly adjustments
were easy to make. The battle scene shined with the extra space. We will probably encounter some more
problems but I am confident you will sail through them.

For those of you who have a moment alone center stage  . . . take your  time ... K. Lela, Tony, Hayley etc.

BE AWARE of your position on this big stage now . . . space yourselves accordingly.

KNOW when you are due to go on stage and be prepared!!  Miss Hayley and I can tell you how bad you'll feel if you miss an entrance and leave your cast mate to fend for themselves on stage.

The backstage area is NOT SOUND PROOF. We can hear you . . . whisper please.

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR PROPS. That means returning them to their designated spot.

NO SUGAR, SODA, CANDY BARS STARTING TONIGHT. ASK YOUR PARENTS FOR FRUIT!!

SEAN CONNERY IS WATCHING YOU!!

Bring your money in and make sure Sandie knows your size, so we can order them tonight after rehearsal!!

Taylor you need to see Nicky ASAP!!!!

4/28-Monday
6:00 Zack Tudor/Brant Biskup
6:15 Joe Pantera/Ryan Scott
6:30 Jake Fricke

4/29-Tuesday
6:00 Ella Kennedy/Monica Kennedy
6:15 Kimmy Curhan
6:30 Summer Hollarbach/Denelle Balliet

4/30-Wednesday
6:00 Shane Oss
6:15 Frenchie Bedford/Sydney Deal
6:30 Pariesa Young

Moms and actresses Kim Kollar (Urinetown Pennywise) and Monica Kennedy (Hobbit Essie)
nine years ago both with child and still as beautiful today as they were then

She comes. She does her job well and she leaves like a Summer breeze

She knew I was taking a picture cause . . . . . . . . . .  she's Monica. Frenchie, what a profile.

Two serious young actors in mid-scene, two good women and wall

They're focused

Anthony in Motion

It's all about their eyes

Cast, who is this? Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him, Horatio: a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy: he hath borne me on his back a thousand times; and now, how abhorred in my imagination it is!

"And that's why you were cast, Patrick!"

She's funny

Troll, mother of four, Hobbit mom, actress

FRONT
BACK

I went to Lonely Mountain
Fought Trolls, Goblins, and killed the Dragon
AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY T-SHIRT!!

Yes. I know I passed this out to you two weeks ago, but this is easier to get to when you need to know. Plus a few things have changed. LOOK IT OVER!! Don't anyone ask for any day off from this point forward. We are on the fast track to opening night and need all the rehearsal time we can get. Good luck, we're all depending on you. Ahhh, nooo pressure or anything.  Hehe!!

Sat 19	OFF
Sun 20	1:00-3:00 ACT TWO (let your ride know we might run over a tad)
Mon 21	7:00-9:00 ACT ONE
Tue 22	7:00-9:00 ACT TWO
Wed 23	7:00-9:30 The first stumble through of the whole show. Everybody (no exceptions) OFF BOOK (both acts) You can call for a line
Thu 24	7:00-9:30 Problems in the play (everybody)
Fri 25	6:30 to 8:00. Polish Elves/Goblins, Dwarves, Royals. 8:00 to 9:00 GANDALF ONLY
Sat 26	This was originally set for 1:00 pm. That was a mistake. If you have a problem, please call me at 485-3026. ASAP!! 9:00 - 12:00 noon Entire Show OFF BOOK (both acts) You can call for a line
Sun 27	OFF Orthodox Easter
Mon 28	7:00 to 10:00 Polish (From this day forward everyone must be at rehearsal)
Tue 29	7:00 to 10:00 First Night on our Beautiful Set 7:00 to 10:00 Polish. This is going to be getting used to the set night and any adjustments we need to make.
Wed 30	7:00 to 10:00 We'll be feeling pretty good about ourselves. Entire Show Last night to call for a line!!! AND NO SUGAR, NO SODA from this point forward. This means you too, Director Dude
Thur 1	7:00 to 10:00 ALL PROPS.
Fri 2	7:00 to 10:00  Tighten, Pacing
Sat 3	Ron and Sandie: Set cues some time during the day!! Cast: 7:00 to 10:30  TECH
Sun 4	7:00 to 10:30  TECH
Mon 5	6:00 to 10:00 DRESS/TECH
Tue 6	6:00 to 10:00 DRESS/TECH
Wed 7	Call is 6:00! PREVIEW starts at 7:00

Thursday 8th call is at 6:00. OPENING NIGHT

You are the best kids in the whole wide world!!  I love you all!

Download | Duration: 00:01:03

This scene is coming along nicely. Jake, keep up this wonderful character you’ve created. Ryan you rock, but boy do you look sick. I hope you’ve gotten some rest. Pareisa I need you louder on that wonderful line you do. I love it.
Hayley keep working on lower your voice, but your assertiveness is perfect. GOBLINS that looks wonderful. This is what I want -- keep polishing your smash, crash bit it’s going to shine. Jake, Syd the chicken schtick is very funny.  Tony just the right amount of pathos.  Patrick your voice sounds good, but a little more arrogance couldn’t hurt.  The Battle scene looks good, you must keep working at it. Keep it smooth, get into your rhythm. KNOW the music. Control your swords. Remember no grandmothers must be beheaded in this fight.

Download | Duration: 00:04:06

Pat: Shame Bilbo more. You have your back to the aud. when you take him to the door, cheat forward. "You will -- u will." Play with that. The pinch needs to be reworked. Drop the swing look.

Tony: You can do the swing turn. (to Thorin) More excitement when you discovery he's Gandalf & firework speech. The lines "If a dragon eats me" play it out to the audience

Dwarves: u gotta get on the lines that you all say together

Hayley: when the map goes down, so does your bow. Play with "Good times always bring dragons". Watch how ‘high’ your voice gets, keep it low. You’re doing swell.

Hannah: Nod at Gandalf when he says it's time. Nice character.

Pariesa: I love your line."always room for..." Meaner on battle.

Logan: Dude u'r doing great with the character but louder.

Timmy: You too. Nive battle work.

Thrust our voices.

Bifur: Pre-troll scene. Stand up on "garlic".

Joe: switch Blimey with Dognamit. Nice accent.

Jake & Ryan: Awesome. Keep it up.

Kenzie: Be more upset on DRAT! You and Syd did well in the Battle.

Syd: Great Volume and Battle scene face!

PEOPLE pick up the cues!! Member Pacing. Move the play along.

Gollum: nice. keep the energy up.

Trolls Rock!

Ela and Reese: I love u 2. Summer get better.

Royals keep having fun. You look and sound good -- Hail the Queen. 

Jazz: You're a joy!

Rox: relax. poetry reading comes naturally to you. Work with K. Lela

Goblins commit to the moves you make in your first appearance.

Zack u're getting into it again, good.

Frenchie: Always in the moment. Nice battle.

On the mound Brandt and Syd: u sounded GREAT.  Brant say "All clear" instead of whistling

Have a good day off but look at your scripts instead of playing CALL OF WARCRAFT!!!

Hey Gang, yesterday's ACT 2 went well. Jazz try to fill Pariesa and Ryan in on their positioning for the final scene.

ON MONDAY, COSTUME LORD, NICK HARTMAN NEEDS TO SEE:
Summer, Shane, Jake, Monica, Joe, Kimmy, Charlie and Ella!

If you are in ACT ONE -- you are there tonight. This will be a working ACT ONE rehearsal so expect some stops and starts.

Enjoy this twisted picture

If you are in ACT ONE you NEED TO BE HERE!! ANY PROBLEMS LET ME KNOW!!!

CHANGE: There is No rehearsal for Tuesday 15

THANK YOU

There was so much creativity in the air tonight. From Tim deciding that Ori's activity should be whittling to the golden arrow (duck Tony)! Kaitlyn you did that move right-outta-the-gate dead-on. You have the Queen's posture down nicely.  Tony, this working man mentality you've given Bilbo comes off smoothly. Keep it up. 

Sandie we need to tell Steve C. we do not need a pillow for the arrow. I like the Queen bringing it on. Hold it with reverence, K. Lela.

Hunter gets the "Surreal Award". Let me explain. I'm in my truck driving home and in my mind I hear Hunter say, "So I'm thinking maybe Ori can take out a book and read. And it's  the Hobbit, he's reading, you know." I don't remember what I said to him at the time, but in the truck I busting out laughing. That's just such great self-aware humor. There's more to Hunter's sense of humor than meets the eye.

Taylor every rehearsal you keep bringing this great character to life. You have some great comic shtick, keep reading your lines to get off book,  so you can control his wild complaining. Hayley I rag you about the manliness of the character just to keep reminding you that you're playing a boy. You're doing swell. Kenzie, Kili is such a happy Dwarf perhaps it is okay for her to be smiling more than the others, after all you have a great smile. Thanks Jazz for being on actor duty tonight.

Welcome back Zack. I know it takes a few days to shake a vacation from your mind. Fang thanks so much for just hanging in there. Logan you bring DW's sarcasm to life. Enjoy it. Yea, I said it. Have fun with his sly remarks. Like the one I gave you tonight. Yea, only nine people might hear it every night but heck, they'll remember you.  Brant you're getting into the whole Elven thing. Be strong. Not just in this scene but through-out. You have a good voice, use it when you are Oak.  Tim be pushy, be strong!

Pat I am looking forward to your Act One. Remember his age and his deep cleverness.  You have moments of such wisdom -- now start bringing them together.  Consistency is the key for all of us.

I was stern with several of you for brief moments tonight when you stopped focusing on the proceedings.  I need you to say with me. We are so close to having the whole play blocked. All of you are doing well. I haven't a compliant. 

I had a treat tonight ... getting to hear the Dragon speak!!! So cool. I also had a burst of secret passageway babble. I just love the idea of a secret passage. Then there was my strange concept of rolling up the side of the mountain two feet and having our heroes crawl underneath it (Dumb with a capital D) I can fix that once I know where the secret door is. 

THANK YOU!

This was a fun rehearsal!!!

Director Dude

Mr. Oss. in the next few days will you be free for an extra rehearsal? The crew and I have been
talking about the mic situation for your character. The general agreement is that we should not
use a mic on you. In which case we will have to work on your volume, imperative  to the success of the scene.
The voice you are creating for Gollum is very good, and I understand the hardships of projecting such
a strange voice so that our audience can enjoy your creation.

Drop me a line rkm5@verizon.net or call 485-3026 and let me know what days you are available in the next few days.

Thank you

Director Dude

As the world awaits the epic production of the "The Hobbit" the publicity mill begins. Soon we will be on cereal boxes and have action figures at the stores. Several characters have already released 'soon to be' hit records. Here's a sample.

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Download | Duration: 00:00:22

Trolls, Elves and Fuzzy creatures. Fairies in full flight.

Middle Earth and a battle on a stormy rainy night.

Goblins, Dwarves and Hobbits, a battle to the death

May we live for the day Smaug draws his very last breath

BE PATIENT, IT TAKE A FEW MINUTES TO UPLOAD

Download | Duration: 00:01:27

The Battle scene is going well. A few notes.

Hayley: When you're in the moment of the battle you are soo in it, I caught you -- only once -- out of it.  Remember actors, Consistency is a key factor in success.

Frenchie: Why don't you start with your sword down and slowly raise it up as you wait to be pushed by ... Bilbo: I want to see horror on your face -- this violence is beyond the Hobbit.

Ela: Shadow's going to really work for you. Start practicing a spider's crawl.

Kenzie: Go from OOpps to "Drat!"

Ryan: Voice is dead-on as Mule. Take your time. Also, instead of sliding off the mound (won't work) Come down the stair to your left. Drawn your line out as he come down the stairs ... "Stop! Stop! He's a no good, ratty LIAR, (beat) O' Truly Tremendous One!" Change it!

Pariesa: Your movements are great, work on your battle face.

Tim: Remember you're a tough dwarf, so assert yourself.

Jazz: THANK YOU for your hard work and imagination.

Charlie: Great face! When you run out -- find a noise like a snort or a wheeze instead of a yell!

VOLUME!

Dwarves: When you get in the circle, remember you are champions and heroes. Bump knuckles. Cheer! Be happy!

Trolls: Awesome! The southern thing worked, Joe: Be more confident. 

Denelle: Gruff in your voice. Monica:  It'll be hard, but try to move more like a man.

Brant: Good movements. Work on not smacking a grandmother in the front row.

Dwarves:  No more smiles.

Jakers: Nice voice but don't rush. Practice the discovery of Thorin's sword. He has a cape I believe. Work together will Hayley. You and Ryan must practice the armpit bit too.

LOTS OF SWORDS WERE CROSSING THE PINK LINE!

Reese and Summer: Sweet. Giggle more at the Goblin Ear joke. Kaitlyn will hold for you. Our Queen and Roxanne and Jasmine: Ice cold I love it. Remember volume. 

Patrick: Stay focused and keep your voice on an even keel. (Not so many ups and down but smooth) You sounded older and wiser in some scenes, Keep it up.

Dwarves:   You're best friends. Show us that.

Shane: In the event, we --  for some reason -- can't mic you, practice projecting your voice as a part of your home-studying. This will help with pronouncing his words using the fine character voice you are creating.

Kimmy: I love it all. The spider dance is right on. We'll work with Ella and polish her movements. Jazz and you are on the right path. Keep it up.

Goblins:  Nice. Keep working on your timing during the Smash, crash chant.

EVERYONE SAY, "THANKS SANDIE!"

VOLUME. DICTION.

Listen to Tony and Hannah's volume. We must project! Also at last rehearsal many actors were slurring their words.

You must watch your diction. Hobbit moms and dads help with this. Speak the whole word clearly.

FOCUS.

Yes, we're all having loads of fun, but we all have a responsibility too. Be in the moment when you are on stage.


Abstract Thoughts:

RYAN:     Your Elf name is Lord Puck Goodfellow, you are master of the Queen's Royal Equestrian force.

I don't know about the Troll's southern origin yet, but I am looking forward to hearing your voices.

We've switched Ella and Reese. Miss Ella will be playing the trickster fairy Shadow and Miss Reese will join Miss Summer (fairy Belle)  as Fairy Tish.

Blocking changes: 

A) The Elven entrance on page 55 has been altered. Rather than turn and face the mountain, once the Queen   emerges, we will arrange you facing the Glen (the back of the Hobbit door) where the Dwarves will be placed.

At the end of Act I Scene I, when the Dwarves line up to exit. Three of you will be be moved to the side of the stage to balance out the scene. Everything else remains the same.

The talented artist Julie Neidlinger's beautiful rendering (below) will now be apart of our production. She is a very creative person and in thanks I want all of you to visit her website www.loneprairie.com. Explore ... her paintings will take your breath away. Steven O'Dea VLT veteran (Pillow Man) will be enlarging the photo of the map and printing it on a canvas-like material. When you see Mr. O'Dea -- thank him.

Thank you to everyone for being patient with the changes, we really whipped the scene into shape.

Welcome Denelle Balliet as the newest Troll. BERTODA

TONIGHT
Jasmine will take The Goblins into the Media Room and go over the Smash, bang, crash monologue. Over and
over again. We are looking for a rhythm.  Mr. Scott will be joining you.

Meanwhile I shall be blocking the Dwarves in the Cave.

When it comes time to do the EPIC BATTLE, Jasmine will be Zack tonight.


A SLIGHT CHANGE FOR SATURDAY
Due to our schedule change last night, this Saturday at 10:00 we will be blocking
the remainder of ACT ONE.  This includes Scene 2 (Bilbo, Thorin, Dwarves, Gandalf
The Trolls, The Queen and Her Sisters)  and Scene 4 (Bilbo, Thorin, Dwarves, Gandalf
and Miss Shadow and Fuzzy creature)

So we don't need Summer and Ela on Saturday.

If this causes any inconvenience, I do apologize.
(work 371-1003 or leave a message on my home number 485-3026 or e-mail me rkm5@verizon.net)

We will start with Scene 2 first --- that way the Royals and the Trolls can get home eariler.

Abstract Thoughts. 

Jasmine Battle music for tonight. I also want to make a movie of the battle scene tonight. Send me last night's pictures when you can.  And Miss Jaz, if can, send Rhonda Sudik rhondasudik@venicestage.com also

Tony change the word song to chant in that last moment of the ACT ONE first scene.

Kenzie:  Stick to OOpps! on page (pg 34) when you come running in.

Brant instead of banging the sword on the ground whistle.

Kaitlyn don't put your finger to your mouth on the lips line. (that was bad directing) Also Royals aim for the very center of the center when you first come out, so the human chair is smack in the middle.

Jakers The first line of poem (pg 34) now reads Nine birds in nine nut trees  (instead of 15, since we've reduced the cast)

Fang take Splatter's line : roast 'em alive on page 35

Everyone: Pick up your cues.  Speak clearly.

Everybody say, "THANK YOU SANDIE!" HELLO! I would like to extend the rehearsal to 9:30 tomorrow. I will understand if you can't stay. That's fine. Thanks to our support team Shane, Fang, Joe and Kimmy for coming out and being with us. So on with the show.... Hannah with an H, be stronger - firm. Dori doesn't waste her words. She is uppity. Hunter volume. Let's make him suspicious. Shifty eyed, but good -- just paranoid. Timmy keep your head up. Jaz, remember to speak to the audience during that chair scene. The Ice Princess thing is working. Taylor commit to your movements. Everyone commit to the moves. Do not saunter. Roxanne volume. You're playing to the audience good. Bring the words out to them with your srtong voices. This kind of acting is reserved for classic comedies but as we are fantasy and as Mama Mounce has pointed out, we are a pageant.  Look that word up everybody even if you know it. Play to your audience. And have fun too. Logan work on diction. You have a great voice, so project it. Taylor be jolly. Yer the type of guy whose always happy, 'cept when they want to stuff ya in barrel. K. Lela remember volume. What good is a rich voice if no one can hear it. Attitude is right on. Mr. Scott is proving to be a prime asset to our production. Thank you, sir. Brant, I like that you do commit to your movements. You really have a good presence, but be louder when you speak. ... Timmy be tough, as the shortest of the Dwarves I would think, Oin has become a rough talking Dude. Work on that with your Hobbit Mom. Hi Deb. Thanks to Denelle, as always. Ela and Summer, do you dance? Girls, we have a different understanding of your fairy. You may look like Tinkerbell, but you're more like Oscar the Grouch. Roxanne, do you need the glasses during performance. I cannot remember if you wore them in Media. . .

All things considered, it was a good night. I'm Happy. 16 pages. Sandie says that's a lot and she knows. But we didn't get a chance to run it properly. Top of the rehearsal tomorrow, we start from the beginning (stumbling, quickly) through the blocking.We must be swift -- time is everything. I figure out how to place the Dwarves. We'll get through the blocking so we can block the next scene. Kimmy I can't wait to see what you cooked up, take your time I know that you want to do your best. So --- whenever your ready. Reese thanks for the good example of a fairy gone wrong. Kenzie what joy. That's it .... Joy, like Bifur, you too are happy to be a part of this great adventure.

Pat, Dude. Don't pull the words so much as emphasize them. And, Dude. The costume. Excellent!!! You're starting to bring out that cleverness in him -- keep it up.  Hey Hayley, did'ja every think you'd get a Director's note telling you to start acting like a man? Play with your voice.  Listen to men speak. Your stance is good BTW. You have this confidence, he needs. . .

Tony we all know you're cool, but Bilbo isn't. Explore his geekier side. False pride, a weak stomach and a penchant for exasperation. But only early on. as the play progress he becomes a strong and noble Hobbit. BTW, your sarcasm is great -- find more places in the script to flesh that out. I mean, think, he's been drafted, and he has no experience in being a thief. Odd situations call for odd measures. Odd that.

They look so serious!

Here's music that could very well be used as the Queen's Song

Download | Duration: 00:04:09