One-Man Nutcracker

written & performed by Chris Davis

directed by MK Tuomanen

choreography by Campbell Tosney

sound design by Adriano Shaplin

lighting design by Krista Smith

narrated by Severin Blake

You know the Nutcracker the ballet, but what if the ballet was performed by only one man? If the daughter Marie, little boy Fritz, creepy uncle Drosselmeyer, the mice, the Sugar Plum fairy, were all channeled through one actor. Chris Davis is proud to bring you One-Man Nutcracker, a re-telling of the original E.T.A. Hoffman Nutcracker Story and the Ballet.

One-Man Nutcracker returns to Philadelphia after a sold-out run in Germany in the Thespis Festival 2024.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://www.realchrisdavis.com/

It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play  

Frank Capra’s beloved holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. Capturing the charm and warmth of the original story, actors portray multiple roles and create live sound effects to bring George Bailey’s uplifting journey to life. This production - featuring Christopher Patrick Mullen and Brian Anthony Wilson; and directed by Pete Pryor (the team behind A Christmas Carol Comedy) - offers a unique, immersive experience that celebrates the enduring message of hope and community.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://www.hedgerowtheatre.org

A world-premiere hilarious and heartfelt solo-romp through Christmas classics.

Starring Barrymore Award Winner Amanda Schoonover*

Created by Brenna Geffers

Run time - 60 minutes with no intermission

December 12-19, 2024

She'll be home for Christmas --- home alone that is. It's Christmas Eve and after a tough year one lady is determined to get into the holiday spirits. Armed with eggnog, she's going to binge drink and binge watch every Christmas story available. Elf-help be damned! Who needs loved ones when you have the Hallmark Channel?

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.shakespeareinclarkpark.org/christmas

Amanda Schoonover is thrilled to be making her Shakespeare in Clark Park debut with her long time collaborator Brenna Geffers.  Amanda is best known as the sassy eavesdropping Waitress on the GLAAD nominated Dispatches From Elsewhere on AMC where she co-starred opposite Jason Segel, Sally Field, and Andre (3000) Benjamin.  She is a two-time Barrymore Award recipient and 9-time nominee, as well as being a Jilline Ringle Solo Performance Program Artist in Residence at 1812 Productions for our show The It Girl and an F. Otto Haas Emerging Artist Finalist. Film/Television: Candy Cane Lane with Eddie Murphy, NBC’s Do No Harm opposite Phylicia Rashad and HBO's Perry Mason. Regional Theatre: Arden Theater Company; Theatre Exile; Pig Iron; Lantern Theater; Azuka; Simpatico; Hedgerow; People's Light. 

Brenna Geffers (she/her) is a theatre-maker and director based in Philadelphia. She is the co-founder of Die-Cast, along with Thom Weaver. Die-Cast is an artist collective that creates new, immersive, and site-specific work. She has created over two dozen pieces around the country with Die-Cast. She serves as the literary and casting director for PlayPenn's 2025 New Play Development Conference. She has created work and directed for local companies, including the Wilma, Theatre Exile, Revolution Shakespeare, EgoPo, Philadelphia Artist Collective, and Tribe Of Fools, to name a few. Regional credits include Spectrum Theater Ensemble, Troy Foundry Theatre, Winnipesaukee Playhouse, and Provincetown's international Tennesee Williams Festival. She has been nominated for Outstanding Direction, Outstanding Choreography, and Outstanding New Play, as well as the Harney Award for Best Adaptation of a graphic novel. She earned her MFA at Temple U. @diecast.philly 

THE COMEUPPANCE

BY BRANDEN JACOBS-JENKINS
DIRECTED BY MORGAN GREEN
A CO-PRODUCTION WITH WOOLLY MAMMOTH THEATRE COMPANY

Set in 2023, Jacobs-Jenkins’ witty and moving dark comedy focuses on five friends who reunite 20 years after graduating from a high school in Prince George's County, outside of Washington, D.C. Known as the "Multi-Ethnic Reject Group," the group was once bonded by their outsider status and the traumas of their teenage years. Gathered on a porch ahead of their high school reunion, they reminisce about their younger selves over adult jungle juice and pot as they each reveal how their lives have unfolded since graduation. As the evening continues, they drink, fight, play a truth game, and lament the disappointments of their adult lives. Throughout the evening, they are haunted by a mysterious otherworldly figure that inhabits each character, forcing them to confront the possibility that their past actions may have sealed their present fates irrevocably.

Jordan Bellow - Emilio

Sarah Gliko - Katelyn

Alana Raquel Bowers - Ursula

Taysha Marie Canales - Kristina

Jaime Meseda - Francisco/Simon

In this episode, host Darnelle Radford engages with Taysha Canales to discuss the Wilma Theatre's production of 'The Comeuppance' by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. They explore themes of parenting, community support, character dynamics, and the importance of kindness in the context of the play. Taysha shares her experiences balancing motherhood with her acting career, the significance of the theater community, and the unique challenges of performing in different cities. The conversation delves into the play's exploration of human connections and the impact of the pandemic on personal relationships. In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Taysha Canales explore the intersection of theater and politics, audience engagement, and the impact of uninterrupted storytelling. They reflect on personal connections to high school, the importance of streaming options for accessibility, and the profound themes of life and death presented in the current production. The discussion concludes with thoughts on the future of theater and the joy of sharing experiences with others.

Thank you to our guest(s), Taysha Marie Canales for joining us on today’s podcast. The Broad Street Review Podcast is An Em3ry Production. If you would like to be a guest on the podcast, visit us online at em3ry.com

Get involved with Broad Street Review. Head on over to our website at www.broadstreetreview.com and click “Get involved” at the top. While you’re there, help keep us running and click “Donate” to find out how. There, you can find our social media links. Thank you for your part in keeping the conversation going.

MORENO

by Pravin Wilkins

November 1-24

American Premiere!

When Kaepernick kneels, will he?


2016. The NFL has been shaken by Colin Kaepernick’s controversial decision to take a knee during the national anthem to protest against police brutality. Superstar running back Luis Moreno, who is all about his game – and his paycheck -- has joined a new team with championship aspirations. But America’s leadership is changing, and when a painful new reality hits close to home, Luis is forced to ask whether politics have a place on the field, and if he is willing to risk his career to take a stand for his own community.

Cast

Frank Jimenez* - LUIS MORENO

Charvez Grant* - EZEKIEL WILLIAMS

Abdul Sesay* - CRE’VON GARCON

Gabriel Elmore* - DANNY LOMBARDO

* appearing courtesy of a contract agreement with Actor’s Equity Association

In this podcast episode, host Darnelle Radford engages with directors Seth Rozin and J. Paul Nicholas to discuss the Interact Theater Company's production of 'Moreno' by Praveen Wilkins. The conversation explores the play's timely themes surrounding social change, the complexities of its characters, and the dynamics of influence within the context of sports and politics. The directors share insights into the character development, the authenticity of the dialogue, and the audience's reception of the play, particularly in relation to current events. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the vital role of theater in promoting social change, fostering empathy, and building community. They emphasize the importance of understanding diverse perspectives through performance and the value of audience engagement, particularly through talkbacks. The discussion highlights how theater can reflect societal issues and encourage critical thinking among citizens. The speakers also share insights on the current state of theater and its relevance in today's world, concluding with a call to action for audiences to participate in the ongoing conversation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://interacttheatre.org

On Saturday, Nov. 16, Prism Arts Philadelphia will host the event, which features fine art, highlights Black excellence, and showcases the diversity of Black drag kings. It will feature drag performers from Philadelphia Black Drag Kings Cyrus K. Stratton, Manny Lovett, Mo Betta, Mister Right, Gemini Mxr, Sir Suavey, Mr. Tee, Deej Nutz, Kyng Dom, and Reese the Beast. The event will also feature a gallery viewing of fine art, including original acrylic paintings by Cyrus K. Stratton and photographs by Gemini Mxr.

CYRUS K. STRATTON

From the Haus of Stratton’s, this King is known for his 80s & 90s excellancé and showing us the moves needed to win your hearts all over the dance floor. Cyrus comes clutch from hosting and having involvement in multiple amateur drag shows and Drag King events in Philadelphia.

https://mulletcreativeservices.com/products/the-coronation-show-ticket

https://metrophiladelphia.com/the-coronation-all-black-drag-king-philly/

A NEW PERFORMANCE BY MORGAN BASSICHIS

WITH ORIGINAL MATERIAL BY FRANK MAYA

DIRECTED BY SAM PINKLETON

MUSICAL RECREATIONS BY NATASHA JACOBS

SCENIC RECREATION BY ELI WOODS HARRISON

October 25–26, 2024

In a desperate attempt to prove they can think about someone other than themself, Morgan Bassichis revisits queer comedian, musician, and performance artist Frank Maya’s 1987 show, Frank Maya Talks. Maya was among the “first out gay comedians on network television” and on the precipice of mainstream success before his death from AIDS-related complications in 1995. This new “solo” performance humbly attempts to ensure Maya’s legacy is no longer overlooked while also resolving the bottomless queer search for laughter in times of crisis and for fame and father figures and intense attachment dynamics no matter how fleeting.

https://www.morganbassichis.com/ 

MORGAN BASSICHIS (They/Them) is a comedian, musician, and writer who has been called “a tall child or, well, a big bird” by The Nation and “fiercely hilarious” by The New Yorker. Their past performances include A Crowded Field (Abrons Arts Center, 2023), Questions to Ask Beforehand (Bridget Donahue, 2022), Don’t Rain On My Bat Mitzvah (co-created with Ira Khonen Temple, Creative Time, 2021), Nibbling the Hand that Feeds Me (Whitney Museum, NYC, 2019), Klezmer for Beginners (co-created with Ethan Philbrick, Abrons Arts Center, NYC, 2019), Damned If You Duet (The Kitchen, NYC, 2018), More Protest Songs! (Danspace Project, NYC, 2018), and The Faggots & Their Friends Between Revolutions: The Musical (co-created with TM Davy, DonChristian Jones, Michi Ilona Osato, and Una Aya Osato, New Museum, NYC, 2017). 

A contemporary and surprising adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic tale of horror FRANKENSTEIN, adapted and directed by Dave Ebersole. This fresh re-imagination will be staged in the historic Lathem Hall on Widener University’s campus for a limited engagement from October 10-20.

Lightbooth Blackout is partnering with The Lone Brick Theatre Company at Widener University to produce an original adaptation of Frankenstein this October.

This fresh re-imagination will be staged in the historic Lathem Hall on Widener University’s campus. Our production fuses Mary Shelly’s text and early stage adaptations with modern dialogue, an amazing cast, and an original score that will be played live throughout the show.

FOR MORE INFROMATION:

FRANKENSTEIN

https://daveebersole.com/ 

https://lightboothblackout.com/

The Lone Brick Theatre Company

https://lonebricktheatre.weebly.com/ 

https://www.facebook.com/lonebricktheatreco/?checkpoint_src=any 

October 4 - 20, 2024

Written by Erlina Ortiz

Directed by Tatyana-Marie Carlo

In association with Edgewood Entertainment

A Philadelphia Premiere

Josefina is a stand-up comic from Philadelphia coming to terms with the recent death of her mother, as well as her sister’s sudden illness, just as her comedy career is taking off. Written by Philadelphia’s own Erlina Ortiz, Co-Artistic Director of Power Street Theatre, this funny and touching new play features sidesplitting stand-up as it explores sisterhood, caregiving, and the search for balance between career and family. La Egoísta is a comedy about being selfish in pursuit of your dreams but selfless with the people you love. Winner of the National Latine Playwrights Award. A Philadelphia premiere.

FOR MORE INFROMATION: https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org

LINKS:

ARTICLE: https://splashmags.com/index.php/2023/03/la-egoista-review-sisters-forever/#gsc.tab=0 

ACTORS THEATRE of LOUISVILLE - https://www.actorstheatre.org/shows/2022-2023/la-egoista/ 

Erlina Ortiz Wins ATC's 2022 National Latine Playwrights Award - 

https://www.prweb.com/releases/Erlina_Ortiz_Wins_ATC_s_2022_National_Latine_Playwrights_Award/prweb18860394.htm  

AngelPirate Productions presents:

the Are We Free Yet? project

based on the book by Tina Strawn

curated, written & directed by TS Hawkins

Through sound and verse, we sojourn in an afro-future encapsulated within a Sunday dinner unpacking decades and dynasties of epigenetic memories. Will the future ever progress against the past? Sauté and serenade with ANTIQUITY and DESTINEÉ as they prepare a table of life, love, and a longing to still be free.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

130PM: Creative Chatback after the matinee reading

7PM: Champagne Celebration to follow the evening reading

CAST/CREW/CREATIVES

Cynda Purnell as ANTIQUITY

Maria Genao Beltre as DESTINEÉ

Jordan Simone reading stage directions

Tina Strawn - author of Are We Free Yet? The Black Queer Guide to Divorcing America (Row House Publishing)

TS Hawkins - playwright, director, curator & dramaturg, marketing manager, and stage manager

AngelPirate Productions - producer

Gabrielle Corsaro - assistant stage manager

Ella Namour - light & sound operator

NaBrayah Jones - still photography

Prime Act Media LLC - videographer

ABOUT THE PLAY

Through sound and verse, we sojourn in an afro-future encapsulated within a Sunday dinner unpacking decades and dynasties of epigenetic memories. Will the future ever progress against the past? Sauté and serenade with ANTIQUITY and DESTINEÉ as they prepare a table of life, love, and a longing to still be free.

ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT & DIRECTOR

TS HAWKINS (they/them) is an international author, performance poet, art activist, playwright, trauma-informed & award-winning educator, and member of the Dramatists Guild. Plays, short works, and books include Seeking Silence, sweet bread peaches (formerly, Cartons of Ultrasounds), Too Late to Apologize, In Their Silence (formerly, They’ll Neglect to Tell You), #RM2B, The Secret Life of Wonder: a prologue in G, AGAIN, #SuiteReality, “don’t wanna dance with ghosts...”, #SuiteTea, the Are We Free Yet? project, Sugar Lumps & Black Eye Blues, Confectionately Yours, Mahogany Nectar, Lil Blaek Book: all the long stories short, The Hotel Haikus, and Becoming Saturn: a collection of rhymes, roses, and resistance. Hawkins’ works and powerful performances have been praised by the Barrymore Awards - Victory Foundation for Excellence in Theatre Education recipient, Philadelphia Magazine - Best of Philly, BroadwayWorld, Philly Voice, NPR, WHYY, WURD Radio, Philadelphia Weekly, Chicago Tribune, The Dramatist, and dosageMagazine. Featured playwriting opportunities include the Frank Moffett Mosier Fellowship for Works in Heightened Language Semifinalist & Dramatists Guild Foundation National Fellowship Finalist for 2024-25. Ongoing interactive projects: TrailOff, Community Capital: an Afrofuturism South Philly Walking Experience, and Becoming Saturn; Hawkins’s first studio poetry album with HawkHatt Music.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

TINA STRAWN (she/they) is a joy and liberation advocate, activist, author of Are We Free Yet? The Black Queer Guide to Divorcing America, and the owner and host of the Speaking of Racism podcast. The heart of her work is leading Legacy Trips, immersive antiracism experiences where participants visit historical locations such as Montgomery and Selma, AL, and utilize spiritual practices as tools to affect personal and collective change. Tina has three adult children, an ex-husband, an ex-wife, and an ex-country. She has been a full-time minimalist nomad since February 2020. Tina travels the globe speaking, writing, teaching, and exploring where on the planet she can feel safe and free in her/their queer, Black, woman-identifying body.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.tspoetics.com/2024/07/event-are-we-free-yet-project-by-ts.html