Karen Shuman, the director of Deerfield Theater’s upcoming Shrek the Musical, came on the podcast to talk about the show and upcoming auditions. Karen discusses her lifelong passion for theater, tracing her journey from childhood to her current role as a director. She shares her love for Shrek, mentioning how it is a favorite in her household and how she pushed hard for it to be staged because of its heartfelt and fun nature. Karen also highlights the unique and catchy new songs in the musical, which differentiates it from the popular movies. We reflect on the inclusive and educational aspects of community theater, emphasizing its benefits for actors of all ages and skill levels.

Karen provides insights into the audition process, urging potential actors to approach it with excitement rather than fear, and explaining what her casting team looks for in auditions. The conversation touches on the nature of the show, with roles for various age groups and opportunities for all cast members to shine. Karen speaks passionately about the transformative power of live theater and its importance in fostering human connection away from screens.

Sign up for auditions using this link!

Auditions at 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield on:

* Sunday, August 17, 1:00-5:00 PM

* Monday, August 18, 6:00-9:00 PM

* Tuesday, August 19, 6:00-9:00 PM

Callbacks: Wednesday, August 20, 6:00-10:00 PM

Show Dates: November 14–16 & 21–23 at Caruso Theater, Deerfield

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We’ll see you at the theater!

Julie Stevens shares her extensive background in theater, revealing her journey as both an actress and producer. She discusses her roles as a board member at Deerfield Theater and her return to acting after a 20-year hiatus, during which she built a successful career in senior living. Julie highlights her contributions to the local theater scene, her experiences overcoming pandemic-related challenges, and the excitement around producing Our Town, emphasizing its relevance and emotional impact. Additionally, she reflects on the new dynamics following the merger of Deerfield Family Theater and Theater D boards and her enthusiasm for bringing the community together through live theater.

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

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Sarah Canon is an experienced performer and choreographer deeply involved with Deerfield Theater. Sarah, who has been both on stage and behind the scenes, discusses her notable roles and contributions, including performing in "Annie" and choreographing productions like "Beauty and the Beast" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." She shares her excitement about her current role as Emily Webb in the upcoming production of "Our Town," calling it a dream role. Sarah also reflects on her pandemic experiences, the unique dynamic of working with her husband, Matt Canon, who is also involved in Deerfield Theater, and offers insights into auditioning and the importance of community in theater.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

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Geoff Isaac will be performing the role of the stage manager in the play, Our Town. Isaac discusses his extensive background in theater, his thoughts on the significance of Our Town as one of America’s greatest plays, and the unique role of the stage manager who narrates and guides the audience through the story. Isaac shares his thoughts on the beauty of live theater, particularly after the pandemic, the versatility of Deerfield Theater’s productions, and the importance of communal experiences in appreciating the arts. Isaac emphasizes the timeless and moving nature of Our Town, encouraging listeners to attend the performance to fully grasp its depth and emotional impact.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

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Chuck Quinn III and Chuck Quinn IV, a father and son duo, are performing together in Deerfield Theater’s upcoming production of Our Town. They share their unique experiences of working together on stage, the deep bond it forms, and how their real-life relationship influences their portrayal of their characters in the play, and vice versa. They reflect on the significance of the play’s themes of cherishing everyday moments, especially poignant after the pandemic. Both Chucks describe their journey in theater and offer insights into how performing arts have impacted their lives. They encourage audiences to see Our Town, highlighting its timeless message and the joy of live theater.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

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Ryan Bond, an experienced performer and executive producer, discusses his journey from stage production to acting, highlighting his extensive background in digital marketing, software, and game development. Ryan shares his joy in expanding his theatrical footprint in the Chicagoland area, particularly with Deerfield Theater's production of Our Town, where he plays Simon Stimson. He reflects on the impact of the pandemic on theater, his transition from production to performance, and his involvement in various TV shows such as Chicago Fire and Chicago PD. Ryan also emphasizes the value of community theater and encourages aspiring performers to seek out opportunities, underscoring the significance of live theater and the arts in enriching lives and communities.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

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Dana Pepowski, a dramaturg and arts administrator, joins the Deerfield Theater Podcast to discuss her role in the upcoming production of Our Town. Dana, a Northwestern graduate who has worked as an artist in Chicago, elaborates on the duties of a dramaturg, which range from providing historical context to facilitating audience engagement through lobby displays and talkbacks. She highlights her involvement in creating a comprehensive research packet for the cast and her ongoing efforts to design a lobby display and lead post-performance discussions. Dana also reflects on how the pandemic shaped her career and shares insights for aspiring dramaturgs. Her passion for theater and detailed research enhance the production and audience experience, making Our Town a deeply engaging performance.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

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Dan Taube, the Director of the Deerfield Theater’s upcoming production of Our Town, shares his extensive experience in theater, spanning from acting to directing and playwriting. He discusses his journey, which began at age 12, evolving through education at NYU and DePaul, and his varied career in community and professional theater. Dan highlights his transition to playwriting and the collaborative nature of theater, emphasizing the importance of life lessons learned through theater experiences. He reflects on the impact of the pandemic on his work and expresses his enthusiasm for returning to live theater. Dan also shares memorable productions he's been involved in and encourages audiences to attend Our Town, underscoring its universal themes and timeless relevance.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

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Susie Mason, co-president of the Deerfield Theater board, shares her deep connection with the theater and her journey with Theater D’s latest production, Our Town. Initially skeptical about the choice of the play, Susie found herself falling in love with it during her research, appreciating its profound message about cherishing everyday moments. Her experience with the production extended beyond graphic design as she decided to audition and became part of the ensemble. Susie emphasizes the significance of the play’s themes in today’s fast-paced world, encouraging audiences to notice and appreciate the simple, yet beautiful aspects of life.

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

Purchase Tickets

Fans and friends of family theater from all over, but especially Deerfield, we have a special announcement for you on a ticket discount promotion for the upcoming show: Our Town!

From February 14th to February 20th, if you use the discount code, VALDAY5, you will receive $5 off your ticket.

So get that $5 off and get your ticket to see Our Town performances, March 28th through April 13th.

We'll see you at the theater!

Theater D Presents: Our Town

Performances at Caruso Auditorium, 1801 Montgomery Rd., Deerfield on:

* Fridays, March 28, 4, and 11 at 7:30pm

* Saturdays, March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30pm

* Sundays, March 30, April 6 and 13 at 2:00pm

Deerfield Theater

Purchase Tickets