Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is an interactive gameplay experience for D&D enthusiasts, improvisational theater fans, and everyone in between. Due to its long-form improv format, each show is a roll of the dice and based on the prompts from a new audience at every show.

For those familiar with D&D, the show is a one-shot based on the fifth edition, complete with a Dungeon Master, Tavern Keeper, and an adventuring party of three players. This campaign is entitled The Tomb of Havoc and was created and written by David Carpenter and Michael Fell with additional material by Conner Marx. Familiarity with D&D is helpful, but certainly not required to have an enjoyable experience. For example, my husband plays D&D, I’m a theater person, and we both love the Dropout TV streaming service (featuring shows like Dimension 20 and Game Changer) and we had a great time with the free-form tomfoolery.

The fantastical world directed by Michael Fell has a pre-existing framework, but a bulk of the action comes from audience prompts and the imaginations of the characters. Prompts are given verbally or through the audience interaction platform built by Gamiotics. Attendees are given a handy sheet as they enter the theater with a QR code and instructions so that every person can choose their level of engagement for their experience. (Phone usage and video recordings are also encouraged during the performance.)

We first meet Dungeon Master Conner Marx, guiding the story while Tavern Keeper Alex Stompoly provides support and top-tier pop culture references. Our three players were Will Champion, RJ Christian, and Madelyn Murphy, all excellent in their playful banter and chaotic goodness. Before they began their quest, they received their assigned characters thanks to the help of the audience. The players used their existing character sheets from previous performances, but their names and backstories are changed based on the whims of that particular crowd.

The adventuring party was ready to embark on the first part of their adventure — a visit to the tavern. Will Champion’s elvish boy band character used his smolder and lute to charm his way through nearly every encounter. RJ Christian was a magical medic of sorts, ready with an ill-timed diagnosis and bonesaw. Madelyn Murphy was an audience favorite as a brutal weapon-wielding dwarf who wore the skin of her defeated foe for the remainder of the mission, visualized by a green cape. Every adventure will be wildly different, but each performance will likely feature a special visit from a local star. Our performance welcomed Washington, DC-based drag queen Tara Hoot, who soon donned the moniker “Tara Hoot the Skin Suit.”

The unpredictable nature of a large gaggle of nerds lends itself to an unforgettable evening of laughter and camaraderie. At several moments during the story, the crowd would chant for their player in a style not unlike the WCW and WWE wrestling matches of yore. The show is advertised as appropriate for ages 8 to 80, but be advised that there is no way to control the prompts of strangers — particularly when alcohol is served in the lobby. The players handled the raucous moments well, and the Dungeon Master was able to keep the story within the parameters of the game mechanics — and within the show’s two-hour and 30-minute run time.

The magic of the evening is truly made possible through the technical achievements of the production. The dynamic design creates the parameters for playful audience-driven storytelling. I especially enjoyed the technical achievements of the stage design. There are large high-definition screens behind the DM where the audience can view a live camera shot of each players’ rolls, inviting us into the shared triumph of a natural 20 or the agony of a critical fail. The video designed by Dpurpurea Studio is whimsical and engaging, blending seamlessly with the organic antics of the live players. I especially loved the lighting design from Mike Wood, helping immerse the audience into the world-building from the moment they enter the theater. Throughout the show, hundreds of lighting and video cues are on standby for whatever improvisational moments may blossom, thanks to board operator Cory Sadler and the design team.

The scenic, costume, and prop designs from K.C. McGeorge are beautifully utilitarian with assorted musical instruments, hats, accessories, and weapons within reach for any live-action role-play need. For example, the climax of the story occurs when the adventurers encounter their final boss — one that is created by prompts from the audience. Our performance featured a ferocious velociraptor, with a costume quickly concocted by the Tavern Keeper using ram horns and plush green paws.

Seat selection in the Eisenhower Theater can play a critical role in one’s experience. If you enjoy having an up-close vantage point with the possibility of participation, the front row and aisle seats of the orchestra section will give you the best advantages. If you prefer to see the entire stage in one shot and watch the mayhem from above, the balcony and mezzanine seats will be an ideal location. Seat cushions are also available for those who need vertical assistance. With the quick pacing and high-definition projections, any temporarily obstructed interaction is still enjoyable.

Additional discounted tickets for this performance were made possible through the program MyTix, a free program for all students, members of the armed forces, and first responders. My children qualified for the program, and we were able to secure tickets and pick them up at will call prior to the performance. The program is a great way to provide better access to quality theater at The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. You can learn more about the program by visiting kennedy-center.org/mytix .

Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is equal parts long-form improv and live action tabletop with a dash of Wrestlemania. Whether you’re familiar with Dungeons & Dragons or entering the theater as a newcomer, you’re in for a fantastical night of game play and interactive world building. Be sure to catch this National Tour when it comes to a city near you.

Running Time: Two hours and 30 minutes with one intermission.

Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern plays through August 3, 2025, in the Eisenhower Theater at The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC. Purchase tickets ($39–$159) online, through TodayTix, or by calling (202) 467-4600 or toll-free at (800) 444-1324. Box office hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 am-9 pm, and Sunday 12 pm-9 pm.

The program for Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is online here.
Play the the show on Gamiotics here (enter performance code DND).

COVID Safety: Masks are optional in all Kennedy Center spaces for visitors and staff. If you prefer to wear a mask, you are welcome to do so. See Kennedy Center’s complete COVID Safety Plan here.

The post The fantastical game world of ‘Dungeons & Dragons’ comes to Kennedy Center appeared first on DC Theater Arts.

The annual Cappies Gala is a spectacular celebration where thousands of students, teachers, parents, and community leaders come together to recognize the many contributions of high school theater and journalism. The emcees of this year’s gala, June 2, were Dr. Tara Taylor, Cappies NCA Chair and Fairfax County Public Schools Theatre and Dance Educational Specialist, and Cappies alumni Hasan Crawford, August Rivers, and Anna Maria Ferrari. It was directed by Cappies NCA Program Director Maeve Nash with orchestra direction by Dr. Jim Criswell.

The first awards of the evening were given to the outstanding student critics who review and select the winners for this end of year celebration. The Bill Strauss Outstanding Critic Award was awarded to Ellen Lawton of Herndon High School. This achievement marks a third consistent Cappie win for the talented writer, who previously won the Andy Mays Rising Critic in 2023 and the Maryland Theater Guide Returning Critic in 2024.

The highlight of every Cappies Gala is the performances of nominated songs and scenes from participating schools. The Concert Hall of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was filled with raucous applause from the thousands of students as they supported their peers’ productions and the recognition they received. Most of the performances featured graduating seniors in their final moments of their high school careers, resulting in tears of joy and sadness backstage during their well-earned applause. As wonderful as the performances were on stage, it was the camaraderie and bittersweet moments backstage that were the most moving of the night.

Colgan High School performed their Cappie Award–winning song “Wait for Me” from Hadestown: Teen Edition, featuring Andrew Serrano-Bremer (winner of Best Vocalist in a Male Role), Jeremiah Gates (winner of Best Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Musical), and the ensemble.

Lake Braddock High School presented an emotionally stirring scene from their Cappie Award–winning production of The Trojan Women. Lake Braddock students won six Cappie Awards including Bella Molino for Special Effects and/or Technology, Madison Eismeier for Sound, Nathaniel Howard for Costumes, Ashley Kennedy for Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Play, Murphy Finnegan Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Play, and the Cappie Award for Best Play.

The Cappies Gala celebrated its 25th anniversary by highlighting moments from previous galas starring alumni who are now professionals in the industry and in the classroom. The most moving segment of the evening was a special tribute to Cappies leader, co-founder, and former Cappies NCA Chair, the honorable Jane “Janie” Strauss. Janie and her late husband Bill Strauss founded the Cappies in 1999. Since his death in 2007, Janie continued the important work of the Cappies and her advocacy as a Fairfax County School Board Member. Janie Strauss passed away in April of 2025, but her impact continues through the thousands of students and educators throughout the Metropolitan DC area and beyond.

The Cappies Awards Gala took place on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. The Cappies Gala will be telecast in its entirety on Fairfax County Public Schools’ cable channel Red Apple 21, which can be viewed online at FCPS.edu/TV.

ABOUT THE CAPPIES
The Cappies (Critics and Awards Program) is an international program that began in the DC Metro area. The program recognizes, celebrates, and provides learning experiences for high school theater and journalism students. Within each Cappies program, participating high schools select three to nine students for a critic team. After receiving intensive training in theater criticism and review writing, the critic team attends and provides a written review of plays and musicals produced by other participating high schools in their area. Volunteer teacher-mentors lead discussions and select the critic-written reviews that are later published by area newspapers. At the end of the year, the student critics cast ballots for the top achievements in 39 award categories. At the end of the season, the critics who have reviewed five or more shows may vote for the Cappie award winners.

The 2025 Cappie Award Winners

Winners are indicated with an asterisk.

Andy Mays Rising Critic

Erin Allen, Bishop Ireton High School
Julian Hassi, McLean High School
* Alden Walcott, South Lakes High School
Bonna Koo, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology
Iris Cooper, Westfield High School

Maryland Theater Guide Returning Critic

Mary Campbell, Westfield High School
Emily Reisman, McLean High School
Christine Dang, Lake Braddock High School
* Madelyn Regan, Centreville High School
Julie Kessel, Albert Einstein High School

Bill Strauss Graduating Critic

Cecelia Meza, Herndon High School
* Ellen Lawton, Herndon High School
Josephin Friedrich, Langley High School
Clare Shacochis, Oakton High School
Iza Piatkowski, Woodgrove High School

Marketing and Publicity

Xander Bush, Zoe Carter, Caty Jewell, Iza Piatkowski, Woodgrove High School , Mamma Mia!
Anusha Krishnan, Arsema Kelkay, and The Westfield Publicity Team, Westfield High School, The Sound of Music
Chance McGill, Kaitlyn Lanigan, Megan Sawyer, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition
* Kat Pascual, Libby Hansen, Olive Webster, Devin Linthicum, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing
The PR & Marketing Team, South Lakes High School, Once Upon a Mattress

Special Effects and/or Technology

Nawal Abib, Cindy Ayala, Fama Gueye, Nariah S. Martin, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition
Peyton Morales and a Certain Special Effects Crew, West Springfield High School, Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic
Alex Hall, Drew Hall, Ethan Jones, McLean High School, Amelie
* Bella Molino, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Anabelle Perez-Caban, Henry Green, Woodson High School, Lear by William Shakespeare

Hair and Make-up

Mary Frances Dempsey, Cassidy Greenwalt, Peyton Olsen, Vivi Parsons, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
Juliana Esen, Vin Watts, Amelia Underwood, Kiara Valerio-De Dios, Falls Church High School, The Addams Family
Lila Halleran, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
* Isabelle Philippe, Jade Mattei, and the Mattress Hair and Makeup Team, South Lakes High School, Once Upon a Mattress
Agustin Anello Quiroga and Chloe Kang, Robinson Secondary School, Tuck Everlasting

Sound

* Madison Eismeier, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Kenrick Philpott, Leo Deangelo, Chase Chapman, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
Tobey Phinney, Kiran Kane, Justice High School, Almost, Maine
Wil Shank, Loudoun Valley High School, Peter and the Starcatcher
Virginia Williams, Rain Medrano, Lynn Milkiewicz, Herndon High School, MACBETH

Props

Aubrey Astore, Margaret Hughes, Liv Rosenfeld, Emerson Thiebert, McLean High School, Amelie
August Carr, Caleb Hayes, Teddy Seylar, August Yates, Wakefield High School, Little Shop of Horrors
* Caroline Cochran, Cameron Filson, Eva Klinker, Victoria Reyes, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Leah Rajnik, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Fiona Raymer, Jasmine Hamilton, Kaleigh Rosania, Annandale High School, Little Shop of Horrors

Lighting

Macie Brooks, Sam Cole, Chantilly High School, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
Katie Eagan, Zaya Economides, CC Mucker, Robinson Secondary School, Tuck Everlasting
ITPA Lighting Team, Independence High School, Once Upon a One More Time (High School Version)
* William Waugh, Kareena Kasperowski, Natalie Mitchell, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
Rebecca Weingast, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women

Costumes

Cassidy Greenwalt, Peyton Olsen, Vivi Parsons, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
* Nathaniel Howard, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Audrey Ihde, Amelie Hatfield, and The Costume Team, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Amalia Manow, Katy Nguyen, Cricket Nicholls, Woodson Costumes Team, Woodson High School, Lear by William Shakespeare
Iona McCluskey, Catherine Carow, Nancy McDougal, and the BITA Costuming Team, Bishop Ireton, Guys and Dolls

Sets

Charlie Fink, Allyson Pikul, Iris Nijbroek, Allison Rigsbee, and the Dramahawks Set Crew, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
* Eliot Hettler, Amelia Haid, Isabel Suk, and The Set Team, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Kinsey Lin, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Chloe Lupo, Rachael Shore, and The Westfield Set Team, Westfield High School, The Sound of Music
Anna Wisneski, Owen Penrose, Caroline Reams, and the BITA Design Team, Bishop Ireton, Guys and Dolls

Orchestra

The Hadestown Band, St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes, Hadestown: Teen Edition
Crazy for You Orchestra, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
South County A Chorus Line Pit Orchestra, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
* Yorktown Pit Orchestra, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
Oakton High School Pit, Oakton High School, Into the Woods

Choreography

Caty Jewell, Maggie Bugaj, Aurora Schriver, Jordan Smith, Woodgrove High School , Mamma Mia!
Katie Johnson, Lexi Stattel, James Madison High School, Mean Girls High School Version
Mary Clare Pelczynski, Sam Wolff, Chantilly High School, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
* Ava Taylor, Josie Sinniger, Karen Board, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
Sitina Tochterman, Jahlil Greene, Hudson Koonce, South Lakes High School, Once Upon a Mattress

Creativity

Charlotte Keshap and Alice Aramendia, Direction, H-B Woodlawn Secondary Program, Uncle Vanya
Aiden Harper, Sol Modell, and Duke Crespin, Musicianship, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish
* Emmett Justice, Scout Gould, Composition, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
Warner Smith, Dramaturgy, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Abeni Smith, Thomas Gay, and the TJTA Dramaturgy Team, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition

Stage Management

Jasmine Downing, Evan Slider, Natalie Lanter, Maya Wade, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
Lily Sarfaraz, Mimi Wise, and the GCTC SM Team, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
* Allie Vargo, Katherine Dailey, McLean High School, Amelie
Hailey Vuong, Riley Russian, Emily Schmitt, Harry Dunick, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
Raymond Walker, Izzy Manicone, Amber Zhu, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing

Stage Crew

Gabe Acquavella, Jordi Tyler, and the Messina Resort Staff, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing
* Dramahawks Run Crew, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
The Riverside Stage Crew, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition
The GCTC Run Crew, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
A Certain Run Crew, West Springfield High School, Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic

Ensemble in a Play

The Chorus, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
The Weird Sisters and the Drumming Divinations, Walt Whitman High School, Macbeth
* Citizens of Laramie, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
The Rude Mechanicals, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish
Dogberry’s Watch, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing

Ensemble in a Musical

The Final 17, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
Reno and her Angels, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
* The “Poor” Ensemble, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
The Fates, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
The Follies, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You

Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Play

Ajyah Ford, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
Michelle Harris, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition
* Ashley Kennedy, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Ellen Lawton, Herndon High School, MACBETH
Marli Palchik, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing

Featured Actor in a Male Role in a Play

* Zerabruck Haile, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
Tony Hillary, West Springfield High School, Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic
Marshall Vogel-Rogers, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish
Noah McGuire, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Krishnan Patel, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition

Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Musical

Gabriel Ayala, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Angelina Kaminsky, Wakefield High School, Little Shop of Horrors
* Francesca Klesius, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
Grace Shaffer, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
Amaris Stokes, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition

Featured Actor in a Male Role in a Musical

* Matthew Aslaksen, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
Rigley Mostafavi, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Jack Rodstrom, James Madison High School, Mean Girls High School Version
Ella Tysse, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
Nico Velasco-Kent, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You

Dancer in a Female Role

* Cassie DellaVedova, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
Caty Jewell, Woodgrove High School , Mamma Mia!
Nealah Malmstrom, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
Ava Taylor, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
Hope Titus, McLean High School, Amelie

Dancer in a Male Role

Kamdi Aghazu, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
Isiah Alston-Gambrell, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
Iskandar Aoun, Robinson Secondary School, Tuck Everlasting
* Nate Kauffman, Quince Orchard High School, Mamma Mia!
Hudson Koonce, South Lakes High School, Once Upon a Mattress

Vocalist in a Female Role

Lea Ahrens, South County High School, A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
Lilli McNerney, Westfield High School, The Sound of Music
Angela R. Fuentes Quinteros, Annandale High School, Little Shop of Horrors
* Itsuko Scoville, South Lakes High School, Once Upon a Mattress
Josie Sinniger, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You

Vocalist in a Male Role

Nate Borrowman, James Madison High School, Mean Girls High School Version
Prajeet Chitty, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
Donovan Furey, Bishop Ireton, Guys and Dolls
* Andrew Serrano-Bremer, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
Zachary Ulman, Langley High School, Beauty and the Beast

Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Play

Emma Carr, West Springfield High School, Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic
* Juliana Gurrola, Woodson High School, Lear by William Shakespeare
Kaitlyn Lanigan, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition
Eudora Neal, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish
Lydia Wester, Clarksburg High School, Much Ado About Nothing

Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Play

Alex Fulgham, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish
Ben Harper, West Springfield High School, Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic
Mekhi Lee, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
* Mauro Manganello, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing
Jojo Smothers, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition

Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Musical

Scarlett Anthony, Westfield High School, The Sound of Music
* Savannah Day, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Kira Gilligan, Robinson Secondary School, Tuck Everlasting
Grace Rodstrom, James Madison High School, Mean Girls High School Version
Sasha Wendell, Falls Church High School, The Addams Family

Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Musical

* Noelle Brosnan, Robinson Secondary School, Tuck Everlasting
Marcello Canniff, Annandale High School, Little Shop of Horrors
Romain Dairay, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Chase Danzenbaker, Independence High School, Once Upon a One More Time (High School Version)
Syd DeWitt, Wakefield High School, Little Shop of Horrors

Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Play

Holland Hasle, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
* Sofi Hemmens, Justice High School, Almost, Maine
Ambriah Jenkins, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Laramie Project
Kathryn Whitis, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing
Sophia Wiegold, Thomas A. Edison High School, Peter Pan and Wendy

Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Play

Aiden Brennan, Woodson High School, Lear by William Shakespeare
* Ben Demase, Loudoun Valley High School, Peter and the Starcatcher
Jack Kreul, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish
Nataline Phillips, West Springfield High School, Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic
Nate Wheeler Smith, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing

Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Musical

Giovana Abdo, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Ella Brown, Robinson Secondary School, Tuck Everlasting
Gwyneth Kemeny, James Madison High School, Mean Girls High School Version
* Allison Payne, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
Mariam Trigui, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition

Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Musical

David Garcia, Chantilly High School, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
* Jeremiah Gates, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
Alex Valencic, McLean High School, Amelie
Drew Wright, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
Aden Wright, St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes, Hadestown: Teen Edition

Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Play

Nora Blythe, Herndon High School, MACBETH
* Murphy Finnegan, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Anna Murray, Walt Whitman High School, Macbeth
Kat Pascual, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing
Charlotte Willmore, Woodson High School, Lear by William Shakespeare

Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Play

Bo Chatterjee, Herndon High School, MACBETH
* Isaac Frenza, Fairfax High School, Much Ado About Nothing
Jeffrey Henderson, Riverside High School, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – High School Edition
Nathaniel Howard, Lake Braddock Secondary School, The Trojan Women
Hugo Ratheau, Meridian High School, A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish

Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Musical

Cam Carter, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
Camille Dausch, Chantilly High School, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
Elsa Harlor, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown
* Bella Houston, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
Clara Neag, South Lakes High School, Once Upon a Mattress

Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical

Aquilles Ailus, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
* Colt Armstrong, Falls Church High School, The Addams Family
August Carr, Wakefield High School, Little Shop of Horrors
Nathaniel Dosen, Annandale High School, Little Shop of Horrors
Seger Ott-Rudolph, Albert Einstein High School, The Secret Garden

Song

No One is Alone, Oakton High School, Into the Woods
Anything Goes, Yorktown High School, Anything Goes
* Wait For Me, Colgan High School, Hadestown: Teen Edition
I Got Rhythm, Hayfield Secondary School, Crazy for You
Run, Freedom, Run!, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Urinetown

Critic Team

Centreville High School
Langley High School
Oakton High School
* South Lakes High School
Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology

Play

A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish, Meridian High School
Puffs: Or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic, West Springfield High School
MACBETH, Herndon High School
Much Ado About Nothing, Fairfax High School
The Laramie Project, Duke Ellington School of the Arts
* The Trojan Women, Lake Braddock Secondary School

Musical

Hadestown: Teen Edition, Colgan High School
Anything Goes, Yorktown High School
Into the Woods, Oakton High School
Once Upon a Mattress, South Lakes High School
* Urinetown, Our Lady of Good Counsel
Crazy for You, Hayfield Secondary School

The post 2025 Cappies Gala at Kennedy Center celebrates high school theater talent appeared first on DC Theater Arts.

Lynn Nottage’s play Clyde’s, currently at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a compelling look into the lives of those who are often unseen and undervalued: the formerly incarcerated working toward a better life. The story centers on four employees in the kitchen of a truck stop sandwich shop. Each worker is striving for a fresh start while grappling with their past decisions. The staff embarks on a quest to craft the perfect sandwich while under the oppressive oversight of their boss, Clyde. As the story progresses, their pursuit mirrors their journeys to find purpose and reinvention.

Clyde’s offers a compelling blend of humor and heart, exploring societal reintegration and challenging perceptions of identity and worth. The characters’ efforts to transcend their past mistakes through the art of sandwich-making becomes a powerful allegory for hope and transformation. The ensemble cast expertly handles the unique storylines that intersect between the grill and the kitchen sink.

Robert Freemon plays Montrellous, the philosophical chef who inspires his colleagues to find meaning beyond their circumstances. His portrayal exudes a calming coolness as his co-workers hang on his every word. He serves as patriarch and moral compass of the group. While Montrellous strives to keep things cool, the heat of the kitchen comes from the titular Clyde, portrayed by Iris DeWitt, a fireball of assertive dominance and unpredictable temper. Although we don’t learn her backstory, DeWitt’s portrayal is layered and intriguing, leaving the audience wanting to know more about Clyde’s insatiable hunger for control.

Jummy Lash brings a vibrant energy to Letitia, a single mom who will do whatever it takes to care for her daughter with special needs. Lash captures the resilience, vulnerability, and strength of her character as she continues to pursue the perfect sandwich. Oscar Salvador Jr. as Rafael is instantly endearing with his playful and earnest demeanor. Salvador demonstrates a nuanced range of emotions as a hopeless romantic, and the audience stayed fully engaged with the ups and downs of Rafael’s journey. Sha Golanski’s depiction of Jason creates an added layer of conflict to the kitchen, showing the complexities of seeking redemption in a judgmental world. He enters the workspace with several racially offensive tattoos and rejects initial opportunities to explain his choices to his new co-workers. We later learn the nature of his incarceration, as we do for all of the workers.

Director Chaz Pando plays with the rhythmic interplay of dialogue and culinary choreography and creates a sensory experience for the audience. The set design from Roger Ray Jr. is particularly noteworthy, authentically recreating the world of Clyde’s kitchen with a combination of practical pieces and stage effects. The practical sink and simulated grill are often used throughout the piece, helping the audience to stay immersed in the story.

Playwright Lynn Nottage is known for her thought-provoking story telling, and Clyde’s is one of many award-winning pieces that strike a masterful balance of comedy and poignant reflection. Workhouse Arts Center is known for its quality productions, and I recommend seeing this powerful show before it closes on April 6.

Running Time: One hour and 45 minutes, with no intermission

Clyde’s plays through April 6, 2025, presented by Workhouse Arts Center performing at the W-3 Theater located at 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA.  Purchase tickets ($25–$40) at the box office, online, or by calling 703-584-2900.

COVID Safety: Masks are optional at Workhouse Arts Center for visitors and staff. If you prefer to wear a mask, you are welcome to do so.

Clyde’s
By Lynne Nottage

CAST (in order of appearance)
Clyde: Iris DeWitt, Juanisha Brooks (u/s)
Montrellous: Robert Freemon, D’Angelo Rashad Woods (u/s)
Letitia: Jummy Lash, Tyra Huckaby (u/s)
Rafael: Oscar Salvador Jr., Niko Salinas (u/s)
Jason: Sha Golanski, Jack Venton (u/s)

PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Chaz Pando
Stage Manager: Sheila Anderson
Asst. Stage Manager: Pharene V. Kirton
Running Crew: Ziggy Reinert
Sound Operations Tech: Clare Pfeifer
Lighting Operation Tech: Brian Bachrach
Scenic Design:.Roger Ray Jr.
Props: Sheila Cephas
Costume Consultant: Remeja Murray
Makeup and Hair Design: Lexi Carter
Makeup and Hair Assistant: Caeli Schamel
Choreography/Fight/Intimacy Director: Stefan Sittig
Lighting Design: Andrew Harasty
Sound Design: Lani Boschulte
House Managers: Merissa Driscoll, Rob Cork, Priscilla Stapula

CARPENTERS, ELECTRICIANS, SCENIC PAINT
Ben Archie, Owen Bliss, Jackie Carson, Liz Colandene, Jamie DiNorma, Jun Douglass, Merissa Driscoll, Madds Evans, Spencer Munshi, Rachael Norberg, Ziggy Reinert, Bria Rodriguez, Johnny Vo, Wesley Walker, Joseph Wallen, Evan Zimmerman

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Prince William Little Theatre’s The Secret Garden brought a musically captivating interpretation of the classic story to life. With music by Lucy Simon and book by Marsha Norman, this Manassas production features some of the best vocal talents in the greater DC theater community.

The story of The Secret Garden explores themes of grief, healing, and renewal. The lush score blends haunting melodies with uplifting harmonies, mirroring the emotional growth of the characters. The musical follows Mary Lennox (Anna Jones), a recently orphaned British girl who is sent to live with her reclusive uncle, Archibald Craven (Alden Michels), a grieving widower haunted by the death of his beloved wife, Lily (Shelby Young). Archibald’s brother Dr. Neville Craven (Lanny Warkentein) also mourns the beautiful Lily while battling intense jealousy of his brother caused by the unrequited love. The manor is dark and somber, but Mary soon finds the company of Martha (Avery Heisey), Dickon (Cam Powell), Ben Weatherstaff (Michael Blinde), and Mrs. Medlock (Daisy Hougan). The ensemble is referred to as the Dreamers (Savannah Lagana, Luke Dollery, Noah Nicoletti, Andrew Harasty, Darcy Heisey, Gilde Breidenbach, Brianna Lau), and they frequently haunt the halls and surrounding property and reenact various scenes from the past, including Mary’s departed parents Rose Lennox (Emily Burnworth) and Captain Albert Lennox (Spencer Pilcher).

Mary learns about a mysterious, locked garden that once belonged to her late Aunt Lily. With the help of her new friends, Mary finds the key to the hidden garden and begins restoring it. The garden blooms back to life along with the spirits of those around her. Mary also discovers that the manor holds other secrets, including her cousin Colin (Shane Siegel), a sickly boy who has been confined to his room, convinced he is too ill to live. The garden’s magical transformation and Mary’s influence inspire a sense of hope: Colin gains strength, and Archibald returns home to discover his son standing for the first time. The family finds healing, love, and new beginnings through the power of nature and connection.

The production was anchored by an exceptional portrayal of Mary Lennox from Anna Jones. Jones is a pint-sized powerhouse as she navigates the tumultuous journey of Mary’s anger, curiosity, and sheer determination. Avery Heisey as Martha and Cam Powell and Dickon both bring a wonderful warmth to their relationships with Mary, and their scenes proved to be the most uplifting and enjoyable.

The Secret Garden is known for its rich music, and the cast delivers on the vocal talents required for the musically demanding score. There are several standout numbers that showcased the beautiful voices of the cast: “Quartet” featuring Archibald, Neville, Rose, and Lily; “Show Me the Key” with Mary and Dickon; and “Lily’s Eyes” with Archibald and Neville. Shelby Young and Alden Michels’ vocal performances are particularly polished. Young’s crystalline voice shone especially in “How Could I Ever Know,” showing her precision and emotional depth as she sings to her beloved. Michels’ “Race You to the Top of the Morning” was one of my favorites of the evening as he reads a story to his sleeping son. Not only was the song beautifully sung but also his performance captured Archibald’s desire to grasp onto a glimmer of hope while in the depths of his grief.

The score was well-executed by the orchestra, led by Director and Music Director George Fulda, and musicians Sophia Perreault, Katherine Bahm, Connie Pittman, Bradley Johnson, Matthew Scarborough, Carlos Figuerias, Teresa Robin Harris, Jane Hughes, Justin Baughman, Ben Greniven, Tim Smith, Claire Bradfuhrer, Anne Sullivan, and Rebekah Greniven.

Prince William Little Theatre’s The Secret Garden was a moving production, offering audiences a touching reminder of the power of nature, love, and resilience. It proved to be a memorable theatrical experience that leaves audiences remembering that “the secret garden is always open. Open, and awake, and alive. If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.”

Running Time: Two hours and 15 minutes, with one 15-minute intermission.

The Secret Garden plays through March 23, 2025, presented by Prince William Little Theatre performing at Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Cir, Manassas, VA. Purchase tickets ($20–$30) online.

The program is online here.

The Secret Garden
Book and Lyrics by Marsha Norman
Music by Lucy Simon
Based on the Novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett

CAST
Mary Lennox: Anna Jones
Archibald Craven: Alden Michels
Lily: Shelby Young
Dr. Neville Craven: Lanny Warkentien
Martha: Avery Heisey
Dickon: Cam Powell
Colin Craven: Shane Siegel
Ben Weatherstaff: Michael Blinde
Rose Lennox: Emily Burnworth
Captain Albert Lennox: Spencer Pilcher
Mrs. Medlock: Daisy Hougan
Alice/Jane: Savannah Lagana
Lieutenant Wright: Luke Dollery
Lieutenant Shaw: Noah Nicoletti
Claire Holmes/Mrs. Winthrop: Darcy Heisey
Fakir/Nurse: Gilde Breidenbach
Aya: Brianna Lau
Major Holmes: Andrew Harasty

PRODUCTION TEAM
Producer: Becky Gould-Levine
Director: George Fulda
Musical Director: George Fulda
Stage Manager: Samantha Fulda
Assistant Director: Samantha Fulda
Assistant Music Director: Jill Figuerias
Assistant Stage Managers: Jill Figuerias and Maria Forte
Costume Design: Riley Leonhardt
Set Design: Mia Villani
Lighting Designer: Andrew Harasty
Hair Designer: Emily Lagana
Properties: Mary Jo Ford
Dialect Coach: Alden Michels

The post Prince William Little Theatre’s captivating ‘Secret Garden’ springs to life appeared first on DC Theater Arts.

Washington, DC, is getting shucked on Pennsylvania Avenue — but not for long! The National Tour of the Tony-winning musical Shucked is playing a limited engagement at the National Theatre, bringing exactly what is needed to the DC area: humor, heart, and an abundance of carefree corny content.

Shucked is an American fable that takes place in the fictional town of Cobb County, a community whose livelihood depends entirely on corn. The show kicks off with the opening number packed with exposition, witty wordplay, and delicious corn-ography. Storyteller 1 (Maya Lagerstam) and Storyteller 2 (Nick Raynor) are always ready to interject a playful pun or intercede as a quick side character. The two Storytellers are infectiously joyful, making it impossible not to have a great time.

When the county’s crops mysteriously begin to fail, the spirited and independent Maizy bravely ventures beyond Cobb County in search of help. Danielle Wade as Maizy is a pint-sized powerhouse of comedic timing and crystalline vocals. Wade embodies Maizy’s stubborn optimism, despite the protestations of her beau Beau, played by Jake Odmark. She defies expectation and sets off on a journey beyond the walls of her hometown in order to find something — or someone — to save them. Enter Gordy, a reluctant con man trying to find his place in the world, played by Quinn Vanantwerp. The two find what they’ve been looking for in each other and return to Cobb County, but I’ll leave the rest of the tale to the Storytellers.

Lulu (Miki Abraham) is a one-woman whiskey dynasty and brings unparalleled vocals to the barn-raising “Independently Owned,” proving she is fiercely independent and expressive with her opinions. She quickly smashes expectations and puts Gordy in his place when she says, “We may be simple folks, but there’s a cornfield of difference between simple and stupid. That’s a simple mistake stupid people make.” Another standout musical number, “Best Man Wins,” features Beau, Peanut, and the male ensemble members and choreography by Sarah O’Gleby, utilizing every nearby object at their disposal. My favorite song of the show is “I Do,” performed by Lulu, Beau, Gordy, Maizy, and the Storytellers. It’s the kind of song that sneaks up and grabs you by the heart through its intertwining lines and beautiful harmonies.

Shucked is a true ensemble piece, and the cast and musicians worked wonderfully together. Robert Horn’s book brings steady pacing with whiplash one-liners, mostly from Peanut (Mike Nappi) and his frequent deep thoughts. In my attempt to stay as spoiler-free as possible, I can safely say that the verbal sparring between Lulu and Gordy was fully charged and damn near explosive. Although the book is unrelentingly corny, it’s the music and lyrics by Grammy-winning Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally that are the heart of the show. The score is a love letter to country music and the art of musical storytelling.

The scenic design by Scott Pask is innovative and versatile, using platforms, beams, and barrels that are moved in seamless and often humorous ways, all encapsulated by a proscenium designed as a rustic barn. It is a scaled-down version of the original two-tiered design from the Broadway run in 2023, but it works well for the touring production. The costume design by Tilly Grimes gives a timeless look of worn denim and quilted comfort to the county residents, a stark contrast to the pastel and florals of the outsiders.

This fantastic fable from Cobb County is a fun romp into an animated world of colorful characters, dad jokes, and country music, but more importantly, it gives audiences a much-needed respite from the barrage of breaking headlines. When some in power may demand to build a wall and demand isolation, the creative team gives us a window into a different possibility. I’m reminded that there is more happiness to be had, and it doesn’t have to come at the detriment of others.

Tickets for Shucked at the National Theatre are available for performances through March 2, 2025. Given the show’s popularity and limited run, I highly recommend getting your tickets as soon as possible. But if you can’t make a live performance of this fun show, be sure to stalk the Shucked social media for updates on the planned feature film produced by Mandalay Pictures.

Running Time: Two hours and 15 minutes, including one intermission.

The North American tour of Shucked plays through March 2, 2025, at the National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington. Tickets ($69–$129) are available online, at the box office, or by calling (202) 628-6161.

The cast and creative credits for the touring production are here.

Shucked is recommended for ages 10+

Enter the Digital Lottery for a chance to purchase $30 tickets to Broadway at The National shows. Learn more here.

COVID Safety: Masks are strongly recommended but not required for all ticket holders. For full COVID protocol, go here.

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With its pop-rock score and uplifting message, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has inspired audiences worldwide and is considered to be Andrew Lloyd Weber’s earliest success, as it originally appeared as a 15-minute pop cantata at his preparatory school in 1968. Weber continued developing the musical with lyricist Tim Rice with whom he also collaborated on Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita. The full musical debuted on the West End in 1973 and traveled to Broadway in 1982, with many notable revivals and a direct-to-video film starring Donny Osmond in the title role.

Director Matt Moore presents the Webber and Rice collaboration with a different lens by presenting it within the context of a Youth Choir getting swept into a creation of their collective imagination. The Youth Choir acts as an audience surrogate to help reframe the story within the perspective of a young person, bringing notes of nostalgia and child-like wonder to this tale as old as time.

The young musicians took the stage to nervously present pre-show announcements but were soon greeted by a dazzling Narrator, played by Katy Benko Miner. She invites them into the colorful story as Joseph, played by Shakil Azizi, draws back the main curtain to show them that “Any Dream Will Do.” Benko Miner and Azizi are the heart of this production as the Narrator and Joseph respectively. Benko Miner’s vocal versatility is unmatched as she soars through each song of the expansive score. Azizi shines in the titular role of Joseph, delivering a performance that captures the resilience of the character’s incredible journey.

The supporting cast was vibrant and energetic in their many roles. Peter Marsh’s portrayal of Pharaoh is both entertaining and memorable in the Elvis-inspired number, “Song of the King.” Scott Pierce as Potiphar and Dawn Gaynor as Potiphar’s Wife deliver very fun performances alongside the talented ensemble in “Potiphar.” The talented Youth Choir included Kassidy Miner, Owen Joseph McDonald, Lilly Glass, James Moore, Mya Morlier, Katie Pierce, and Lucia Mattson. The Youth Choir members were interwoven throughout the show in creative ways to feature them as both audience members and storytellers. The entire ensemble exuded immense joy, especially during the closing “Megamix,” making it impossible to not smile and clap along.

Joseph’s eleven brothers played by Scott Pierce, Ryan Lucius Schaffer, Robert DeBroeck, Alan Pierce, Martin Kelly, Eric Black, Eric Wolpert, Pete Kim, Patrick Murray, Joseph Allen, and Anthony Palladino with their father Jacob played by Paul Correll performed their scenes and songs with great vocal strength and unapologetic silliness. My favorite of their interactions was the song “Those Canaan Days,” led by DeBroeck as Simeon and featuring a delicious tango choreographed by Christie Dubansky.

Cate Murray’s musical direction brought out the best in the performers, and I was equally impressed with the successful use of pre-recorded tracks. It can be a tricky balance to maintain the energy and momentum of a show without a live orchestra, and the Sound Team stayed in sync with the performers for a successful performance. The lively production also featured a combination of colorful costumes from Amber Kiffney, large-scale puppets from Swazzle Incorporated, a versatile set design from Peter Marsh, interactive props from Jay Wells, playful projections from Sam Wong, and a range of practical effects that contributed to the storytelling without upstaging the performers.

Triune Entertainment’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a poignant production for such a time as this, when hope can feel like it’s dimming. Joseph reminds us that although we are “still waiting, still hesitating,” we can remember that throughout Joseph’s struggles, he persisted through his faith that “any dream will do.” May we all continue to persist with the same hope for a better tomorrow.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat plays through March 9, 2025, presented by Triune Entertainment performing at Journey Theater, 4175 Bludau Dr, Warrenton, VA. Purchase tickets ($18–$22) online.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber

CAST
Joseph: Shakil Azizi
Narrator: Katy Benko Miner
Jacob: Paul Correll
Pharaoh: Peter Marsh
Potiphar: Scott Pierce
Mrs. Potiphar: Dawn Gaynor
Levi: Scott Pierce
Reuben: Ryan Lucius Schaffer
Simeon: Robert DeBroeck
Judah: Alan Pierce
Zebulun: Martin Kelly
Naphtali: Eric Black
Issachar: Eric Wolpert
Asher: Pete Kim
Dan: Patrick Murray
Gad: Joseph Allen
Benjamin: Anthony Palladino
Baker: Elizabeth Steimel
Butler: Martin Kelly
Youth Choir: Kassidy Miner, Joseph McDonald, Lilly Glass, Jame Moore, Mya Morlier, Katie Pierce, Lucia Mattson
Wives: Dawn Gaynor, Elizabeth Steimel, Cindy M. Sabato, Tammy West, Hilary Pierce, Catie Pacheco, Mary Gaskins, Amanda Mattson, Sarah Pesce, Brighid Hughes
Pharaoh’s Fan Girls: Elizabeth Steimel, Tammy West, Hilary Pierce, Catie Pacheco

PRODUCTION TEAM
Producer: Mary Beth Balint
Director: Matt Moore
Stage Manager: Debbie Martin
Music Director: Cate Murray
Choreographer: Christie Dubansky
Technical Director: Ben Jacobeen
Costume Director: Amber Kiffney
Set Designer: Peter Marsh
Props Manager: Jay Wells
Assistant Director: Ryan Balint
Youth Choir Vocal Director: Lori Roddy
Board Operator: Naos Marbach
Rehearsal Assistant / Projectionist: Samantha Wong
Mic & Sound Tech: Sarah Vaughn
House Manager: Lisa Moore
Board Operator: Lex Hartung
Sound Designer: Kaitlyn Nelson
Lighting Designer: Dan Martin
Assistant Costume Director, Hair & Makeup Design: Mia Dalusung

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Prince William Little Theatre’s Christmas Belles brings an irresistibly charming dose of Christmas chaos to the Hylton Performing Arts Center. The holiday comedy by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten (collectively Jones Hope Wooten) is set in the small town of Fayro, Texas, and is a lighthearted farce that takes audiences on a whirlwind tour of dysfunctional families, outrageous misunderstandings, and a Christmas play that seems destined for disaster.

The play centers on the Futrelle sisters Honey Rae, Frankie, and Twink. Each Futrelle has big plans this Christmas season: Honey Rae plans to redeem her checkered past by directing the town’s annual Christmas play, Twink plans for revenge while in the custody of local law enforcement, and Frankie is just trying to bring her family together before she gives birth to twins.

Melanie McCleerey is a sparking firecracker as Honey Rae, bringing heaps of physicality and comedic timing to the role. Charlene Sloan as Frankie glows as the nine-month pregnant sister with a secret. Sloan and Jim Harris, who plays her husband, Dub Dubberly, have several standout moments together as they compare her pregnancy to the unexpected excruciating pain of his kidney stones. Erika Horton portrays Twink with a sharp tongue and blazing fire behind her eyes. Her chaotic impulse is a great contrast to the straight and narrow Sheriff John Curtis, played by Justin Beland.

The ensemble cast is made complete by other standout characters like Carolyn Corsano Wong as Geneva Musgrave. I especially enjoyed her scenes with McCleerey as they feud for power. Wong is a powerfully grounded storm against McCleerey’s erratic tornadic energy, making for several captivating and hilarious interactions. I really appreciate that both performers expertly balance their larger-than-life characters with great care as scene partners and support their counterparts rather than upstage them.

The heart of the show is Radulovic as Raynerd Chisum. Raynerd “just loves Christmas” and is never without his red wagon as he reports updates of the chaos ensuing in the show within the show. The character could easily become a caricature, but Radulovic brings a sincere warmth to Raynerd’s childlike wonder. His telling of the Christmas story in Act 2 is especially moving.

Liz Mykietyn as Rhonda Lynn is overflowing with Southern hospitality and silly humor. Rhonda Lynn and Frankie are thick as thieves, much to the chagrin of sisters Honey Rae and Twink. Meanwhile, Gina Jo played by Erin Miller and Justin played by Nick Macfarlane are a pair of nervous young people the audience can’t help but root for. Anne Kight Lloyd as the meddling Patsy Price goes from Dallas class to wacked-out and loopy as a result of accidental hijinx.

Director Terri Ritchey stages the fast-paced script with quick transitions and a strategic lighting design from Steven Wong. Every character of the ensemble cast has their moments to shine, offering more than just laughs. While the comedy hits all the right notes, the play also explores the real challenges of the holiday season: family dynamics, expectations, and the love that unites us despite our flaws.

Costumes by Michelle Matthews are a great nod to small-town Texas flair with tacky Christmas sweaters and sparkly accessories. Set designer Vincent Worthington makes use of the wide stage by creating a multipurpose area that looks like the back common room of a church. Smaller scenes take place in front of a blank wall that shows projections for various locations. It should be noted that the theater has stadium style seating where the audience is above the actors at an angle. If you prefer to see details up close, I recommend sitting in the first few rows. But if you like to take in the action as a whole and don’t mind potentially missing some action taking place on the floor, then the center and back rows are great locations. The tickets are general seating and the house opens 30 minutes prior to the show time.

Christmas Belles is a joyful reminder of the messiness and beauty of family, with plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you’re looking for a festive escape or just need a good laugh, this play delivers. With its heartwarming message and laugh-out-loud moments, Christmas Belles is sure to put audiences in the holiday spirit.

Running Time: Approximately two hours with one intermission.

Christmas Belles plays through December 22, 2024, presented by Prince William Little Theatre performing at the Gregory Family Theater in the Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas, VA. Tickets ($15–$25) are available online or through the Hylton Center box office at 703-993-7759, Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.

The Christmas Belles program is online here.

Christmas Belles by Jones Hope Wooten

CAST
Honey Rae Futrelle: Mel McCleerey
Rhonda Lynn: Liz Mykietyn
Frankie Futrelle Dubberly: Charlene Sloan
Twink Futrelle: Erika Horton
Dub Dubberly: Jim Harris
Geneva: Carolyn Corsano Wong
Gina Jo: Erin Miller
Sheriff John: Justin Beland
Justin: Nick MacFarlane
Raynerd: Jon Radulovic
Patsy: Anne Kight Lloyd

PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Terri Ritchey
Producer: Becky Gould-Levine
Stage Manager: David Ritchey
Sound Design: Wil Taft
Costume Design: Michelle Matthews
Set Design: Vince Worthington
Scenic Design: Sue Ellen Smoot
Lighting Design: Steve Wong
Photography: Amanda Elena Photography

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Reston Community Players’ production of Fiddler on the Roof is a vibrant and heartfelt rendition of the beloved classic. Director Christine Maxted collaborated with her creative team of Music Director Steve McBride, Choreographer Philip Smith-Cobbs, Stage Manager Kaiti Parish, and more to create a production with a poignant blend of humor, heartache, and tradition.

Set in early 20th-century Russia, Fiddler on the Roof follows Tevye, a poor Jewish milkman in the small village of Anatevka. Balancing tradition and change, Tevye grapples with his daughters’ desires to marry for love rather than follow the practice of arranged marriages. As the family faces increasing pressures from outside forces, Tevye must navigate his faith, family, and the ever-changing world around him.

The story begins with one of the strongest opening numbers in musical theater: “Tradition.” Leading the cast is Steve Cairns as Tevye, immediately establishing a relationship with the audience and conversing with God throughout. His portrayal was friendly and vulnerable, showcasing a wholesome masculinity that can often be found in fathers of daughters. His softness is juxtaposed with his decisive and devoted wife, Golde, portrayed by Melanie Rider. Rider’s vocal warmth and dry humor are a wonderful complement to Tevye’s jovial nature, particularly in “Do You Love Me” and “Sunrise, Sunset.” In Act 2, Cairns and Rider do a magnificent job portraying their heartbreak within their traditional roles, grappling with tradition but overwhelmed with love and sadness for their daughter.

Daughters Tzeitel, Hodel, Chava, Shprintze, and Bielke are charming and spirited when we first meet them in the opening number. After a comical visit from the village matchmaker Yente portrayed by Kate Keifer, daughters Hodel and Chava, played by McKinley Seale and Abigail Atwater respectively, begin to daydream about their ideal matches. I really enjoyed the performances from Seale and Atwater as they showcased their beautiful voices and playful banter in “Matchmaker” before they were interrupted by Tzeitel, played by Rachel Donders, pretending to be Yente to bring them back to reality.

The vocal power from the men of Anatevka was outstanding, in particular Motel played by Thomas Wilson and Lazar Wolf played by Erik Black. Motel is sheepish and unsure of many things — except his love of Tzeitel! His song, “Miracle of Miracles,” was especially good, showcasing Wilson’s exquisite tenor voice. Another standout is Erik Black as Lazar Wolf. He and Tevye have several comedic conversations followed by boisterous bellowing, most notably in “To Life.” It was a joy to hear such powerful singing from the villagers while they drunkenly danced and celebrated at the Inn.

The music truly shines in this production. The timeless score from Jerry Bock and lyrics from Sheldon Harnick is brought to life through Conductor Matthew Scarborough and his fantastic orchestra. The 13 musicians collectively played over 20 instruments with precision and passion. The titular fiddler (performed in alternating performances by brothers Chet and Lewis Bliss) appears onstage during several poignant scenes, helping to draw attention to the tension between tradition and the precarious nature of change. In particular, “Sabbath Prayer” and the final scene of the production were beautifully staged and very moving.

The set design by Anna Mintz evoked a nostalgic feeling of reading a fable or storybook, with blue hues and visible brush strokes to represent the rustic charm and warmth of Anatevka. The program includes an excerpt from Cultural Advisor Jerry Morse about Jerome Robbins’ inspiration from a painting by Marc Chagall called “The Fiddler.” The full essay can be read at restonplayers.org/pastshows. Reading this article and additional resources by Morse made this production all the more impactful.

On a personal note, every production of Fiddler on the Roof that I see seems to occur during a tumultuous time and this production is no exception. I felt pings of sadness with each connection to a current headline as well as sparks of joy with new connections to past experiences. The emotional weight of the story is universal, prevailing with themes of family, tradition, and resilience and reminding the audience of the enduring struggles faced by a persecuted people.

Reston Community Players’ Fiddler on the Roof is a commendable production that balances the humor and heartbreak of life. The cast, creative team, technical crew, and musicians all delivered a heartfelt performance that invites reflection on the nature of change and the ties that bind us all together.

Running Time: Two hours and 45 minutes, including one intermission.

Fiddler on the Roof plays through November 9, 2024 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 2 pm), presented by Reston Community Players, performing at Reston Community Center’s CenterStage, 2310 Colts Neck Road in Reston, VA. For tickets ($25–$30), contact the box office at 703-476-4500 x38 or purchase online. CenterStage is accessible and offers listening devices for the hearing impaired.

Fiddler on the Roof

CAST
Tevye: Steve Cairns
Golde: Melanie Rider
Tzeitel: Rachel Donders
Hodel: McKinley Seale
Chava: Abigail Atwater
Shprintze: Olivia Daugherty
Bielke: Grace Hamer
Yente: Kate Keifer
Motel: Thomas Wilson
Perchik: Christian Rodgers
Lazar Wolf: Erik Black
Mordcha: Jack Dixon
The Rabbi: Larry Finkel
Mendel: Joshua Paul McCreary
Avram: Chris Woidka
Nachum: Andrew Morin
Grandma Tzeitel: Jennifer Levy
Fruma Sarah: Melanie Kurstin
Constable: Anthony Pohl
Fyedka: Jeff Mouritzen
Sasha: Jordan Kazemi
Shaindel: Cathy Gurson
The Fiddler: Chet Bliss and Lewis Bliss
Chaim, the Fishmonger: Alexander Colon
Yussel, the Hatmaker: Kurt Gustafson
Shloime, the Bagel Man: John Norquist
Anya: Jennifer Reynolds
Duvidel, the Seltzer Man: Jordan Kazemi
Vladimir (To Life Soloist): Alexander Colon

MUSICIANS
Conductor: Matt Scarborough
Violin: Rebekah Givens
Cello: Pam Clem
Bass: Jared Creason
Reed 1: Teresa Harris
Reed 2: Justin Baughman
Trumpet 1: Jack Dusek
Trumpet 2: John Paganelli
Trombone: Ben Green
Synth Strings: Joe Faber
Accordion: Aimee Faulkner
Guitar: Robert LaRose
Percussion: Laura Moniuszko

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It was a dark and stormy night at the Kennedy Center for the national tour of Clue. My family and I have watched the film countless times and we were eagerly waiting for the curtain to rise in the Opera House. Clue is a triumphant tribute to its source material, touching on classic beats but with added physicality and hijinx. Familiarity with the 1985 Paramount film will not detract from the experience — it will enhance it.

The show opens on a dark and stormy night at Boddy Manor. The year is 1954, and McCarthy’s Red Scare looms in everyone’s minds. Yvette the maid, played by Elizabeth Yancey, is preparing the manor for the special guests when she is joined by Wadsworth the butler, played by Mark Price, and the Cook, played by Mariah Burks.

As guests enter one by one, each performer fully embodies their unique persona, soliciting reactions even before their first words. The first to arrive is Colonel Mustard, played by John Treacy Egan. Egan towers over the other guests with bumbling buffoonery while maintaining a firm but vacant disposition. I enjoyed his quick and confusing responses to the typically banal banter one hears at a dinner party with strangers. Mrs. Peacock is perfectly portrayed by Joanna Glushak. She is the first character to establish ties to Washington, DC, a connection that the local audience gleefully applauds. The iconic soup moment is a favorite among Clue fans and Glushak puts her own stamp on the memorable monologue.

Tari Kelly as Mrs. White is simultaneously tightly wound and physically expressive. Director Casey Hushion incorporates wonderful choreography in several key scenes, most memorably between Kelly and Price as Mrs. White and Wadsworth. John Shartzer as Mr. Green first appears as an accident-prone wall flower, clumsily making his way through the manor. But keep an eye on him — his flexibility truly shines in the second half of the story.

The final two guests are Professor Plum and Miss Scarlet, played by Jonathan Spivey and Christina Anthony respectively. The mysterious Mr. Boddy, played by Alex Syiek, soon appears to inform the guests of the game that is set up for their evening together.

Price is spectacular as Wadsworth. His impressive physicality is matched only by his comedic timing, especially in the recap monologue that serves as an 11 o’clock number of sorts. His theater and dance background is apparent as he takes each moment, no matter how small or large, and captivates the audience’s attention.

The key to the production’s success is its ability to play on the memorable characters while adding additional unexpected dialogue and wonderful physical comedy. The original screenplay by Jonathan Lynn and book by Sandy Rustin are adapted by Hunter Foster, perhaps best known to readers for his Tony-nominated performances in Little Shop of Horrors and Urinetown. Foster understands the camp and quirk needed for a live adaptation of the beloved film, and he provides a wealth of opportunities for the performers.

The impeccable timing and execution required to produce the story is a testament to the technical team, led by Production Stage Manager Margot Whitney. The scenic design by Lee Savage is integral to the successful pacing. The rooms reveal themselves like the folds of a board game. Lighting and sound design by Ryan O’Gara and Jeff Human respectively are an important element for the plot as the characters experience intermittent blackouts and thunderous weather.

The show is family-friendly for older children, in that the humor and hijinks revolve around wordplay and physical comedy with occasional crude language and sexual innuendos. I brought my family including my 12- and 10-year-olds, and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. Seat selection can also play a role in one’s experience. Among my family, two of us sat in the orchestra and the two sat in the mezzanine. If you enjoy having an up-close vantage point, the orchestra seats in the center section will give you the best views. If you prefer to see the entire width of the stage and watch the choreography from above, the balcony and mezzanine seats will be an ideal location. Seat cushions are also available for those who need vertical assistance. With the quick pacing and dynamic blocking, any obstructed interaction is still clearly heard and enjoyable.

Clue is a masterclass in murder mystery and physical comedy. Whether you’re familiar with the original source material or entering the theater as a newcomer, you’re in for a killer night of mayhem and misdirection.

Running Time: 90 minutes, no intermission.

Clue plays through October, 2024, in the Opera House at the Kennedy Center, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC. Tickets ($29–$179) can be purchased at the box office, online, or or by calling (202) 467-4600 or toll-free at (800) 444-1324. Box office hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 am-9 pm, and Sunday 12pm-9 pm.

The program for Clue is online here.
The national tour page for Clue is here.

COVID Safety: Masks are optional in all Kennedy Center spaces for visitors and staff. If you prefer to wear a mask, you are welcome to do so. See Kennedy Center’s complete COVID Safety Plan here.

The post ‘Clue’ on tour at Kennedy Center: a triumph in murder mystery and comedy appeared first on DC Theater Arts.

The City of Fairfax Theatre Company’s production of Legally Blonde: The Musical is a delightful, high-energy spectacle that leaves audiences feeling uplifted and inspired.

Director Maura Lacy captures the spirit of the film-turned-Broadway show while infusing it with fresh updates. The choreography, skillfully designed by Stacey Yvonne Claytor, is dynamic and engaging with standout numbers like “What You Want” and “Whipped Into Shape” showcasing the cast’s talent and the infectious energy of the show. The musical score is performed beautifully by the cast and live orchestra under the direction of CJ Redden-Liotta. The catchy pop tunes are deceptively difficult with their tight harmonies and breakneck transitions, but the cast and musicians work together to keep the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Amelia Jacquat shines as Elle Woods, bringing a balance of camp and emotional depth to the beloved character. Her animated physicality and powerful vocals make her a standout, particularly in the high octane “What You Want” and the emotional ballad “Legally Blonde.” The playful chemistry between her and Daniel DeVera playing Emmett is palpable and adds a layer of warmth to the story. DeVera’s vocals are like honey to the ears and his musical moments with Jacquat are very endearing. Another strong vocal performance comes from Andreas Moffett as Professor Callahan. His smooth crooning creates an especially devious take in songs like “Blood in the Water” where he instructs first-year law students on how to think more like a bloodthirsty shark instead of acting like prey.

Olivia Clavel-Davis as Brooke Wyndham kicked off Act Two with one of the best numbers of the show, “Whipped Into Shape.” She plays the powerful yet incarcerated empress of a fitness empire. Clavel-Davis leads the impressive cardio routine while expertly belting her face off. Rose Hutchison as Vivienne Kensington effectively captures the character’s complexity, transitioning from antagonist to ally with grace. Her vocals are especially fantastic in “Legally Blonde – Remix” as she leads the charge to get Elle back in court. The comedic role of Paulette was played by Emily “EJ” Jonas with standout moments in several songs, but she truly shines in “Bend and Snap” with Elle and the talented ensemble showing her how to use her natural assets to get the attention of Kyle, the delivery guy perfectly portrayed by Philip Smith-Cobbs. Chiara Bangor-Giorgio is another comedic standout as Enid Hoops, nailing her witty one-liners and character choices.

My favorite aspect of the show was the stellar ensemble, especially the Greek Chorus led by Serena, Margot, and Pilar played by Sophia Martinese, Lilli Williams, and Monique Barnes respectively. The overall casting was a more realistic representation of the diversity within Northern Virginia and it was wonderful to see it reflected in this story.

The minimal and effective set design by Noah Beye is versatile and functional, transporting the audience to the many locations of the story through quick transitions and creative lighting by Beth Becker. Director Lacy did an excellent job using the entirety of the Katherine Johnson Middle School Theater to stage smaller scenes so that larger scenes could be set up simultaneously. The props and set dressing from Michelle Brooks were especially thoughtful and helped ground the characters to the fast-paced story.

Overall, the City of Fairfax Theatre Company’s Legally Blonde: The Musical is a celebration of positivity and resilience. Although the production ended its run on July 27, audiences will no doubt remember the message and standout performances for many years to come.

Running Time: Two hours and 20 minutes.

Legally Blonde: The Musical played July 19 to 27, 2024, presented by presented by City of Fairfax Theatre Company performing at Katherine Johnson Middle School, 3801 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA.

Legally Blonde: The Musical
Directed by Maura Lacy
Choreography by Stacey Yvonne Claytor
Music Direction by CJ Redden-Liotta

CAST
Elle Woods: Amelia Jacquat
Emmett Forrest: Daniel DeVera
Warner Huntington III: Patrick Kearney
Professor Callahan: Andreas Moffett
Paulette Buonufonte: Emily EJ Jonas
Brooke Wyndham: Olivia Clavel-Davis
Vivienne Kensington: Rose Hutchison
Enid: Chiara Bangor-Giorgio
Margot: Lili Williams
Sirena: Sophia Martinese
Pilar: Monique Barnes
Kyle/ Pforzheimer: Philip Smith-Cobbs
Kate: Emily Carbone
Leilani: Alexandra Lagos
Gaelen: Jessi Shull
Aaron/Nikos: Joshua Aaron Poole
Carlos/Kiki: Kevin Donlan
Whitney/DA Joyce Riley: Christine Connor
Store Manager/Judge: Sara Watson
Grandmaster Chad: Darien Weems
Dewey/Winthrop: Andy Shaw
Chutney: Allison Moffett
Elle’s Mom/Ensemble: Cameo Manning
Elle’s Dad/Lowell: Mike McGovern
Ensemble: Wyatt Underwood
Ensemble: Eli Nygaard
Ensemble/Stenographer: Robin Maline
Ensemble/Cashier: Emily Rhodes
Ensemble: Caitlin Carrington-Fair
Ensemble: Ben Fowler
Greek Chorus: Jaiden Hendrickson
Greek Chorus: Sydney Austin
Greek Chorus: Kendall Pomerleau
Greek Chorus: Faith Bradley

The post An energetic and heartfelt ‘Legally Blonde’ from City of Fairfax Theatre Company appeared first on DC Theater Arts.

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts buzzed with excitement on Monday evening, June 10, 2024, as hundreds of young people from throughout the National Capital Area gathered to celebrate the achievements of high school theater.

The annual Cappies Gala is the culmination of hundreds of hours for thousands of students, teachers, parents, and community leaders, all gathering to celebrate the contributions of high school theater programs. The 2024 Cappies Gala was hosted by Dr. Tara Taylor of Fairfax County Public Schools and Jack Hopewell, Cappies alumni and star of the National Tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar. The ceremony also featured a Cappies orchestra, dancers, singers, and spotlight performers from participating schools.

The big winners of the night included West Springfield High School’s Sweeney Todd School Edition and Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Romeo and Juliet. The atmosphere was electric. Every drumroll from the student orchestra was accompanied by hundreds of students in the audience drumming on their laps. The winners leapt to their feet at the sound of their names, then hurried to the microphone to thank their families, friends, teachers, and loved ones.

The most moving acceptance speech of the night came from Female Vocalist Winner Itsuko Scoville from South Lakes High School’s production of Big Fish School Edition. Scoville thanked her mom, teachers, and her beautiful cast mates before concluding with, “..and I would like to say thank you to my father up in heaven because I know that if he were here right now he would have the biggest smile on his face.”

The highlight of every Cappies Gala is the inclusion of songs and scenes from nominated productions. For many attendees, this is the only opportunity to see each other’s work live on stage. Many pieces feature graduating seniors in what will be the final performance of their high school careers, resulting in bittersweet backstage moments. Colgan High School’s performance of “Seasons of Love” from their Cappie-nominated production of Rent School Edition filled the Concert Hall and backstage area with warmth and awe.

West Springfield’s Christopher Seeger earned two Cappies – one for Lead Actor in a Musical and a shared win for Special Effects with Peyton Morales. Seeger’s joy backstage was a stark contrast to his earlier performance as the titular Sweeney Todd when he and his castmates performed the Cappie winning song, “The Ballad of Sweeney Todd.” I had the opportunity to speak with Seeger about his wins and the challenge to create the violent depictions of the story – without the use of stage blood. “We tried a lot of things, but we ended up using long red fabric with Velcro at the end so it could go down the back of the costumes, then when I cut their throats I would pull out the piece.” The effect looked even more gruesome than stage blood when paired with the Cappie Award-winning lighting design from Zachary Kearny, and Rakeb Yihunie. He went on to describe the trial and error in finding the perfect fog with the ideal movement and weight to heighten the ominous exposition of the opening number. “We added fog to the casket right before it came on stage, and it would get cold, then when the lid opened it flowed over the side and into the audience.” Seeger will attend Shenandoah University next year to pursue Theater.

Cappies alumni return each year to the star studded Gala including Alani Kravitz, Theatre Teacher at Yorktown High School with an impressive production of Les Miserables School Edition. “It’s Yorktown’s first year in the Cappies, and I am thrilled to be back to High School Theater Prom! I was a Cappies Critic and Singer and it absolutely made my high school experience. It’s incredible to see how the talent and commitment has grown over the years, and to see all the students be so kind and supportive to each other. Long live the Cappies!”

The Cappies was founded by Bill Strauss and Judy Bowns in 1999 as a Critics Awards Program recognizing High School Theater. The program provides training and writing opportunities to critic teams at participating high schools, equipping them with the critical skills to write reviews about theatrical productions. Those critics then vote for the top nominees in selected categories with the winners announced in a spectacular gala at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. The organization grew from its inception in the National Capital Area to include programs throughout the United States and Canada.

The 2024 Cappies Nominees are as follows, with Cappie Award winners in bold.

Andy Mays Rising Critic
Julie Kessel | Albert Einstein High School
Madelyn Regan | Centreville High School
Alden Walcott | Langley High School
Kira Gilligan | Robinson Secondary School
Dylan Truncellito | Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Maryland Theater Guide Returning Critic
Ellen Lawton | Herndon High School
Allie Vargo | McLean High School
Audrey Link | McLean High School
Clare Shacochis | Oakton High School
Nataline Phillips | West Springfield High School

Bill Strauss Graduating Critic
Alexander Perry | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Lazar Bozic | Quince Orchard High School
McKenzie Phelan | Quince Orchard High School
Ella Greene | Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Justin Pokrant | Westfield High School

Marketing and Publicity
Jessica Awad, Marcus Contreras, Kat Pascual, Kaylee Williams | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Morgan Butle, Hailey Klein, Cece Meza, Mateo Pinover | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Ava Turley | Chicago: Teen Edition | Quince Orchard High School
Vinita Adhira, Neveah Hampton, Anusha Krishnan, Eden Teni | Miss Holmes | Westfield High School
Ian Conner, Lauren O’Dell, Maddie Cho, and the 1776 Publicity Team | 1776 | Woodson High School

Special Effects and/or Technology
Cherri Hansford, Anna Wisneski | Into the Woods | Bishop Ireton High School
Bella Molino and Special Effects Crew | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Scott Fulkerson, Ethan Jones, Andrew Von Elm, Megan Wright | Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play | McLean High School
Millie Beaudry, Sean Cunniffe, Naomi Lewis, Carlos Ortiz | Frankenstein | Meridian High School
Peyton Morales, Christopher Seeger | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School

Hair and Make-up
Olivia Prout, Lanieyra Hunter | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Nour Abbas, Makayla Freeman, Angel Standfield | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Emery Graninger, Grace MacCracken, Maia Le, Valentina Sedan | Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play | McLean High School
Charlie Conforti, Katie Dheming, Diana Lainez Gochez, and Crew | The Addams Family | Mount Vernon High School
Brianna Turner, Anabelle Volpe, Alina Yang, and The Sweeney Hair & Makeup Team | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School

Sound
Lynn Milkiewicz, Dani Ramsey | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Leah Dutcher, and Sound Crew | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Jocelynn Johnson, Tyler Jones, Carlos Ortiz, Ashe Stoner | Frankenstein | Meridian High School
AJ Brandt, Mat Hemmer, and The Sweeney Sound Team | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
TJ Schultz, and the Yorktown Sound Crew | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Props
Amelie Aubouin, Maddie Allen | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Jasper Geer, and the Props Team | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Riley Kozal, and the Props Crew | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Annabelle Bozarth, Charlotte Gould, Alina He-Cheng, Gauri Pillai | Alice in Wonderland | Langley High School
Katherine Misero | The SpongeBob Musical| Osbourn Park High School

Lighting
Marley Peterson, Megan Rigsbee, and the Dramahawks Lighting Team | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Isabella Ramsey, Liam Nowak | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Ella Gontkovic, Alyssa Hodor, and the Whitman Lighting Team | Cabaret | Walt Whitman High School
Zachary Kearny, Rakeb Yihunie, and The Sweeney Lighting Team | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
Keya Sikotra, and the Yorktown Lighting Crew | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Costumes
Catherine Carow, Claire Gibbons, Iona McCluskey, the Bishop Ireton Costume Class | Into the Woods | Bishop Ireton High School
Gaby Adumua, Caitlin Grycewicz, Lilly Kyle | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Livie Godfrey, Maggie Growney | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School |
Logan Lin, Anna Schoenborn, and the Big Fish Costume Assistants | Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
Anya Allensworth, Amalia Manow, Katy Nguyen, and the 1776 Costume Team | 1776 | Woodson High School

Sets
Joseph Murray, Charlotte Rayder, Sarah Petz, Caroline Reams, and the BI Set Design Team | Into the Woods | Bishop Ireton High School
Madison Beisner, Sam Rutledge, and the Dramahawks Set Team | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Charly Olsen, Carson Brownlee | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Kinsey Lin, and the Set Crew | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Sophie Coudert, Maeve Sawyer | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Orchestra
Orchestasia | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Fiddler Orchestra | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Whitman Pit Orchestra | Cabaret | Walt Whitman High School
The Sweeney Pit | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
Yorktown High School Pit Orchestra | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Choreography
Mary Clare Pelczynski, Sam Wolff | Anything Goes | Chantilly High School
Emily Bastidas, Sierra Flowers | Mean Girls High School Version | Clarksburg High School
Naomi Bautista, Libby Hansen, Nate Smith | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Noah Kennedy, Anna Leo, August Rivers | Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
Leo Myers, Anneliese Odegard, Lyla Price, Angie Sukhee | The Prom School Edition | Wakefield High School

Creativity
Ray Jewell, Gavin Johannson, Composing and Musicianship | Lavender | Albert Einstein High School
Morgan Butler, Assistant Director | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Mariajose Fernandez-Vargas, Jasper Geer, Zainab Zia, Assistant Directors | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Noah Chlan, Jackie House, Music Composition/Director | Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play | McLean High School
Carlos Ortiz, composer | Frankenstein | Meridian High School

Stage Management
Gabe Acquavella, Riley Vandell, Raymond Walker | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Charly Olsen | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Eleanor Heinbaugh, Zoe Zackius-Shittu, and The Sweeney Management Team | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
Diya Mohanty | Miss Holmes | Westfield High School
Payton Cooper, Sam Mund, Maggie O’Kieffe | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Stage Crew
The Dramahawks Stage Crew | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Amelie Aubouin, Hailey Klein | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Tomas Bocock, Grayson Quigley, and the Big Fish Run Crew & Cast | Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
The Sweeney Stage Crew | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
Yorktown Stage Crew | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Ensemble in a Play
Stage Managers, Ruby Kodis, Ariel Russel, Willow Singleton | Our Town | Duke Ellington School of the Arts
The Ghosts | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Citizens of Verona | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
The Shades of Springfield | Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play | McLean High School
The Bennet Sisters | Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School

Ensemble in a Musical
Homeless | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Students at the ABC Café | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
The Alabama Lambs | Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
Small Ensemble | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
Students of the ABC Café | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Play
Nyla Mickel | Our Town | Duke Ellington School of the Arts
Fortune Picker | Deadwood Dick, or A Game of Gold | James Madison High School
Micah Chlan | Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play | McLean High School
Alexis West | Frankenstein | Meridian High School
Bella Ragona | Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School

Featured Actor in a Male Role in a Play
Habib Kamara | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Aidan Chomicki | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Colt Craddock | The Doctor in Wonderland | Oakton High School
Jackson Foerster | Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School
Yishak Kefyalew Kelkay | Miss Holmes | Westfield High School

Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Musical
Jayden Benitez | Bring It On | Alexandria City High School
Grace Drost | Anything Goes | Chantilly High School
Jessie Brooks | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Jordyn Sooley | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Cordelia Clayton | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Featured Actor in a Male Role in a Musical
Mauro Manganello | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Carter Elliff | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Tommy Maxson | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Aaron MacWatters | The Addams Family | Mount Vernon High School
Liam Kalchbrenner | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Dancer in a Female Role
Ariana Singleton | Bring It On | Alexandria City High School
Naomi Bautista | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Carter Smith | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Angie Sukhee | The Prom School Edition | Wakefield High School
Kathryn Edmonds | Cabaret | Walt Whitman High School

Dancer in a Male Role
Sam Wolff | Anything Goes | Chantilly High School
Sadan Lasker | Mean Girls High School Version | Clarksburg High School
Nikolai Crowl | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Nathaniel Howard | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Andrew Shea | Chicago: Teen Edition | Quince Orchard High School

Vocalist in a Female Role
Madelyn Regan | Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Enchanted Edition) | Centreville High School
Emily Bastidas | Mean Girls High School Version | Clarksburg High School
Itsuko Scoville | Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
Lara Alarapon | Into the Woods | St. Andrew’s Episcopal School
Alannah Hjelm | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Vocalist in a Male Role
Taylor Reiter | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Colt Armstrong | Annie | Falls Church High School
Aaron Guerrero | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Ethan Hardy | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Haley Kim | 1776 | Woodson High School

Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Play
Anjali Shah | Lavender | Albert Einstein High School
Claire Copes | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Sophia Christiano | Alice in Wonderland | Langley High School
Ana Jankovic | The Doctor in Wonderland | Oakton High School
Kira Gilligan | Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School

Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Play
Eitan Amster | Lavender | Albert Einstein High School
Erik Bilawski | Deadwood Dick, or A Game of Gold | James Madison High School
Daniel Qiu | Alice in Wonderland | Langley High School
Benjamin Fredericks | Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School
Zach Smith | Much Ado About Nothing | South County High School

Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Musical
Haru Hernandez | Mean Girls High School Version | Annandale High School
Gabriela Viana | Into the Woods | Bishop Ireton High School
Tiffanie Kim | Mean Girls High School Version | Clarksburg High School
Quinn Lopez | Annie | Falls Church High School
Gaby Bradley | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Maren Lewis | Chicago: Teen Edition | Quince Orchard High School

Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Musical
Tristan Farmer | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Gary Valdivieso | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Porter Bertman | The Addams Family School Edition | Thomas A Edison High School
Ethan Heinrich | The Prom School Edition | Wakefield High School
Ryan Schimenti | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Play
Princess Louden | Our Town | Duke Ellington School of the Arts
Lori Collins | Deadwood Dick, or A Game of Gold | James Madison High School
Holland Hasle | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Scarlett Spano | Alice in Wonderland | Langley High School
Audrey Iglesia | A Midsummer Night’s Dream | Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School

Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Play
Bailey Pavitt-Graff | Deadwood Dick, or A Game of Gold | James Madison High School
Sofia Hemmens | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Jonathan Barnard | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Andrew Parker | A Midsummer Night’s Dream | Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School
Noah Plfugrath | Much Ado About Nothing | South County High School

Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Musical
Danielle Serrano-Bremer | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Mary Copeland | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Maren Lewis | Chicago: Teen Edition | Quince Orchard High School
Caroline Heyerdahl | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
Bella Houston | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Musical
David Garcia | Anything Goes | Chantilly High School
Nate Wheeler Smith | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Sunya Supanklang | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Jordan Richard | Chicago: Teen Edition | Quince Orchard High School
Max Gerstenberg | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School

Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Play
Ruby Garritano | Our Town | Duke Ellington School of the Arts
Murphy Finnegan | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Abby Berg | Frankenstein | Meridian High School
Ella Brown | Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School
Zoe Brennan | Miss Holmes | Westfield High School

Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Play
Jonah Uffelman | Deadwood Dick, or A Game of Gold | James Madison High School
Elijah Kassa | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Alex Perry | Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Nathan Bass | Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play | McLean High School
Parker Bryant | Much Ado About Nothing | South County High School

Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Musical
Elina Viana | Into the Woods | Bishop Ireton High School
Isabella McDonald | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Kaylee Williams | Anastasia: The Musical | Fairfax High School
Samantha Sanders | Cabaret | Walt Whitman High School
Kaylee Wisner | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School

Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical
Josh Starzyk | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Will Johnson | Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
August Rivers | Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
Ryan Robbins | Cabaret | Walt Whitman High School
Christopher Seeger | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School

Song
“Last Midnight” | Into the Woods | Bishop Ireton High School
“Seasons of Love” | Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
“Tradition” | Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
“The Ballad of Sweeney Todd” | Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School
“Master of the House” | Les Misérables School Edition | Yorktown High School

Critic Team
Herndon High School
Langley High School
McLean High School
Quince Orchard High School
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Play
Our Town | Duke Ellington School of the Arts
Deadwood Dick, or A Game of Gold | James Madison High School
The Picture of Dorian Gray | Justice High School
Romeo and Juliet | Lake Braddock Secondary School
Frankenstein | Meridian High School
Pride and Prejudice | Robinson Secondary School

Musical
Rent School Edition | Colgan High School
Les Misérables School Edition | Hayfield Secondary School
Fiddler on the Roof | Herndon High School
Big Fish School Edition | South Lakes High School
Sweeney Todd School Edition | West Springfield High School

https://www.cappies.com/nca/awards/2024#winners 

The post 2024 Cappies Gala at Kennedy Center celebrates high school theater talent appeared first on DC Theater Arts.

As the theater community rings in the new year, Triune Entertainment will bring its next production, Songs for a New World, to the Wind River Theater in the historic ARTfactory of Manassas. I had the pleasure of meeting Director Matt Moore and some of his team to preview the special production before its opening night on January 19.

Songs for a New World is a powerful and emotionally charged musical from Tony Award winner Jason Robert Brown. Moore has assembled an award-winning team for this production. He plans to transcend traditional storytelling through the innovative technical design from Dan Martin and an exceptional live orchestra conducted by Chris Smith. “I have loved this show for many years, but now I feel the stars have truly aligned for this production to happen with these talented collaborators,” says Moore. “We are excited to bring Songs for a New World to the Wind River Theater in Manassas, and I know it will leave a lasting impression on our audiences.”

Vocal Director Carolyn Scott is looking forward to the musical storytelling of the four performers and live orchestra. The interconnected songs come together to explore universal themes of love, choice, and the human experience. According to composer Jason Robert Brown, Songs for a New World is “about one moment. It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice, or take a stand, or turn around and go back.” The production promises to be a visual and auditory feast featuring four favorite DMV talents: Shakil Azizi, Cate Murray, Sarah Bright, and Joshua Ewalt.

Shakil Azizi joins the cast as Man 1 and sings one of the standout songs of the show: “King of the World.” Azizi was most recently seen as Frederick Barrett in Titanic the Musical with Good Shepherd Players. Other critically acclaimed roles in the Northern Virginia area include Hot-Blades Harry in Workhouse Art Center’s Urinetown, Henrik in Reston Community Players’ A Little Night Music, and Clopin in The Arlington Players’ The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Azizi also performed internationally as Chase/Jake in Paw Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue.

Cate Murray plays Woman 1 and will move audiences with her performances of “Christmas Lullaby” and “I’m Not Afraid of Anything.” Murray is a Virginia native and a graduate of James Madison University. She has a strong affinity for historically informed performances and has portrayed several dramatic roles such as Magda Sorel in Menotti’s The Consul and Third Lady in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, as well as comedic roles including the Faerie Queen in Gilbert and Sullivan’s Iolanthe and Marthe in Gounod’s Faust. Murray was a Young Artist with Opera Roanoke and also served as a musical theater composer/arranger, vocal director, and music teacher in the Warrenton area. She recently vocal-directed Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Once Upon a Mattress at Fauquier Community Theatre.

Sarah Bright as Woman 2 truly shines in the number “Stars and the Moon.” Bright is a recent transplant to the Northern Virginia area after 15 years in the Chicago theater scene. She has many international credits in Germany and the United Kingdom in productions of Proof as Catherine, Rabbit Hole as Becca, Bus Stop as Grace, Soldier’s Heart as Casey Johnson, Company as Harry, and City of Angels as Gabbi/Bobbi. Local audiences may recognize her from her recent portrayal of Christine Colgate in Fauquier Community Theatre’s production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.

Rounding out the talented quartet is Joshua Ewalt as Man 2. Ewalt is a Northern Virginia local and works with several theater and choral groups, most recently Upper Room Theater and Gainesville Community Choir. His previous theatrical roles include Mr. George Banks in Mary Poppins, Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!, Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, Sebastian in Rodgers and Hammerstien’s Cinderella, and Cinderella’s Prince in Into the Woods with Upper Room Theatre Ministry. Ewalt has several beautiful vocal moments in the show, especially in “The World Was Dancing.” He is looking forward to bringing Jason Robert Brown’s well-loved classic to life, along with his fellow performers.

This production comes on the heels of Triune’s critically acclaimed world premiere of Peter Filichia’s Larry the Big-Time Broadway Producer. Triune is an independent, non-Equity production company dedicated to providing artists with opportunities to direct and perform in exciting and original ways. Triune’s mission is to create exceptional entertainment experiences while being respectful to its audiences and participants and to provide opportunity and access to the best in live production, publishing, training and education, and beyond.

Songs for a New World plays January 19, 20, and 21, 2024, presented by Triune Entertainment performing at the Wind River Theater in the ARTfactory of Manassas at 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA 20110. Purchase tickets ($20–$30) online. For more information contact Matt Moore at matt@triuneentertainment.com.

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