by Steven Froias TriCityNews
April 9, 2009
Here's another entry in my gay leaders series. Actually, this time around it's a trio of guys. Hey - threesomes are best!
You've already been introduced to Thomas Morrissey, Stephen Bishop Seely, and David E. Leidholdt, elsewhere in these pages in the past year. But in this column, I'd like to put their achievements and endeavors into a broader context. Because these three have swiftly assumed a leadership role in the artistic community, and they are poised to reach a new plateau next weekend when their ReVision Theatre company stages the East Coast premier of 'Kingdom" beginning next weekend.
Thomas, Stephen, and David launched ReVision Theatre here in Asbury Park over a year ago with the goal of integrating the company completely into the local community. They brought with them years of experience in theatre across the country, and more specifically from the East Village in New York City where they plied their trade for about a decade.
In choosing Asbury as their new home base, they knew what they were looking for - a community from which they could draw as well as bestow artistic inspiration. Towards that end they have mounted productions in some of the city's iconic structures, such as the Paramount Theatre and the Carousel building.
They'll be doing it again next weekend with "Kingdom" in another piece of history, the VFW building at 701 Lake Avenue. Indeed, by seizing the initiative and furthering the transformation of that building into a performing arts center, they have guaranteed themselves a place in the pantheon of movers and shakers in this town, along with the many others groups (not to mention Cmmdr. Lou Pirsisi) who have facilitated this exciting development.
In a short amount of time, Thomas Morrissey, Stephen Bishop Seely, and David E. Leidholdt have raised the cultural bar through their work with ReVision and their participation in the vibrant arts scene that Asbury Park is home too. Next weekend, though, they go for broke with a potentially history making production that could fulfill their destiny as a major professional, regional theatre company. And not coincidently, the fact that "Kingdom" is being produced here also raises the status of Asbury Park as cultural destination like no other.
Here's the back story: ReVision Theatre, as a professional, Equity-associated company, is part of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre. Once a year, they hold a Festival of New Musicals, works just at the stage of development where they warrant full productions, just short of off-Broadway or Broadway. "Thoroughly Modern Millie," "The Drowsy Chaperone," and "Light in the Piazza"came to light via this route.
This year, "Kingdom" was one of those shows. But as is often the case with groundbreaking work, most theatre companies were too afraid to touch it. They were afraid that it would be impossible to market because of its theme.
"Kingdom" is a hip-hop musical. The subject matter is gang life. Other theatre companies were concerned that the term 'hip-hop' were alienate their traditional patrons, and that they also wouldn't be able to attract the younger crowd who could relate to its themes. You know - probably the same thing that was said about "West Side Story" some 50 years ago.
Only two theatre companies had the balls to snag "Kingdom" and take on the challenge of assuring loyal customers that yes, they were indeed going to see a musical, but also that yes, the boys in the hood could also find something to like up on the stage.
Those two companies were the world renowned Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, where "Kingdom" had its West Coast premier, and.
ReVision Theatre Company in Asbury Park, New Jersey where "Kingdom" will have its East Coast premier next weekend, beginning Thursday, April 16.
That's what makes these guys leaders. They move the ball forward. They inspire themselves as well as the broader community to reach higher. And they don't take the easy way out.
And as exemplified by "Kingdom," though they are of the gay community they are part of the broader community, leaders who build bridges between the many parts of a city or region and thereby strengthen the whole. As is the case with all such folks - gay or straight - they make up the unique fabric of the triCities and are indispensible to its success as a region.
So, be sure to get your tickets for "Kingdom" ASAP. As Thomas said to me, this important theatrical event is something that could have you saying years from now.
"I can't believe it happened in Asbury Park."
Believe it.
"Kingdom" will run from Thursday, April 16 through Sunday, May 3. You can purchase tickets online at ReVisionTheatre.org, Call 732-455-3059 or them in person at: Flying Saucers Retro Kitchenware, 658 Cookman Avenue (Shoppes at the Arcade - Lower Level); and Thurs, Fri, Sun & Mon 11 am to 5pm & Sat 11 am to 9 pm at The VFW Hall in Asbury Park - Theatre Box Office, 701 Lake Avenue (Entrance on Bond Street between Cookman and Lake Avenues. Monday thru Sunday 1pm to 6pm;open to 8pm on show days.
Showing posts with label tricity news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tricity news. Show all posts
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Hair is Here!
ReVision Theatre takes off - and takes it all off - in Asbury
By Steven Froias
TriCity News
August 7, 2008
ASBURY PARK - We can't think of a better way to add an exclamation point to a comeback summer on the Asbury boardwalk than an event musical staged in the newly restored Carousel building.We can only picture it in our mind's eye, however. But ReVision Theatre of Asbury Park can see it through from concept to execution. And that's exactly what's happening right now as they gear up to present their next production, a staging of HAIR in the Carousel opening Friday, August 15 and running through Sunday, August 31. It's certain to add a dash of bold creativity to the scene with it's uncompromising artistic commitment to the original intent of the show - which contains strong language and full nudity - and what's certain to be ReVision's own unique take on this timeless, but timely, piece of theatre. We're not surprised that ReVision isn't afraid to cross new cultural terrain in the triCities. We interviewed the directors back in May and were impressed with their street cred.The guiding lights of the company are Stephen Bishop Seely, David E. Leidholdt, and Thomas Morrissey. The trio first came together in New York at ReVision's precursor, Genesius Guild years ago. After many successful seasons in the Big Apple, they found themselves swimming in critical acclaim but suffocated by New York's tight space and notoriously high operating costs. So they began to search for a new home in which to base their evolving group, which they began to envision as a regional theatre company which would provide opportunities for actors, directors and the like, as well as develop new material for Broadway or Off-Broadway bound productions.They chose Asbury Park and the triCity region - simply fell in love with the possibilities this area afforded them. As we wrote back in May, it's a win-win situation; for Asbury, and the triCity region, it's an opportunity to claim ownership of an organization that could bring national cultural attention to the area.Before planning the coming week's production of HAIR in the Carousel, they set up shop in our funky, little city by establishing an office in the VFW building on Lake Avenue, held acting classes and readings, and laid the groundwork for realizing their potential by staging a few special performances."DayDreaming: Channeling Doris Day" held June 1st at Mattison Park was one. The enthusiasm generated that day helped propel them to their next event - in the most expansive sense of the word. That was a one-night only musical concert of Richard Skipper as Carol Channing in "Hello, Dolly" at the Paramount Theatre on June 14th. It was, both in our view and in the opinions we heard by many in the audience that evening, the night magic returned to that venerable stage. Now, ReVision Theatre is poised to work their spell on another historic Asbury venue. As with everything they've done and everything we hope they'll do, it's an informed and inspired choice - just like the selection of HAIR itself as their next production.Stephen Bishop Seely tells us that he and the other directors of ReVision literally hopped in a car with representatives from Madison Marquette and went on a tour of available performance spaces on and around the boardwalk. But it was a short trip; the marriage of tribal rock musical and the siren call of the somewhat gritty, raw space of the Carousel was a pitch perfect match. Stephen calls the opportunity to stage HAIR there "environmental staging."He says they settled on HAIR as their next project, after initially planning to select and stage an original work, because he and the other directors felt the excitement generated by Asbury Park, particularly the boardwalk, demanded an 'event' show.HAIR is certainly that event - for the times, generally, and for Asbury Park now specifically.Born 41 years ago in another - at the time - somewhat scrappy space, Joe Papp's Public Theater in lower Manhattan, HAIR burst onto the theatrical scene a year later on Broadway pulsing with freshness and vitality. Though the summer of love is 40 years gone, many of the same issues - war, racism, sexism and sexuality - are churning beneath the surface of our society today. "HAIR is more relevant today than in any other time during the past 30 years," Stephen says.ReVision solicited resumes for the directing chores from all over the country and settled on Andy Goldberg, an up and coming theatrical talent who has already made a mark in Berlin, Germany with Boney M., a tribute show to the Australian answer to ABBA, Daddy Cool. Andy tells triCity that he concurs with Seely. "HAIR isn't a museum piece," he says. "The present day will creep into this production, more by implication than by beating people over the head." He leapt at the chance to help re-invent the musical, which coincidently is also being revived in New York this week. It's a testament to the tenacity of the ReVision team that they were able to secure the rights for this production, a mere 60 miles away. It's that determination to push the envelope that Asbury should embrace. Just as it should the more controversial elements of HAIR, including its full frontal nudity. With the success of Asbury's boardwalk this summer comes danger - the danger of creeping conformity. We've always hoped this city would never fall into that abyss. And ReVision Theatre - as all good artistic endeavors should - is helping to prevent that from happening. It's a challenge Asbury should accept gratefully."The cast is excited to take their clothes off!" Stephen told us. Which probably isn't surprising since Andy told us that while they've been rehearsing up in New York City, they're steeping themselves in the time period of the 60s. That's when the raw energy of the young was channeled into a cultural war of their own choosing and making in an effort to effect.change.How much - and how little - has changed from 1968 to 2008 in the country, and in Asbury Park.Hats -and everything else - off to the exuberance of youth. And ReVision Theatre. HAIR will run August 15 through August 31; Thursdays & Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 7:00 pm & 10:30 pm; and Sundays at 7:00 pm. At the Carousel on the Boardwalk, 700 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park. All Tickets $35, General Admission. Buy tickets online at www.ReVisionTheatre.org.
By Steven Froias
TriCity News
August 7, 2008
ASBURY PARK - We can't think of a better way to add an exclamation point to a comeback summer on the Asbury boardwalk than an event musical staged in the newly restored Carousel building.We can only picture it in our mind's eye, however. But ReVision Theatre of Asbury Park can see it through from concept to execution. And that's exactly what's happening right now as they gear up to present their next production, a staging of HAIR in the Carousel opening Friday, August 15 and running through Sunday, August 31. It's certain to add a dash of bold creativity to the scene with it's uncompromising artistic commitment to the original intent of the show - which contains strong language and full nudity - and what's certain to be ReVision's own unique take on this timeless, but timely, piece of theatre. We're not surprised that ReVision isn't afraid to cross new cultural terrain in the triCities. We interviewed the directors back in May and were impressed with their street cred.The guiding lights of the company are Stephen Bishop Seely, David E. Leidholdt, and Thomas Morrissey. The trio first came together in New York at ReVision's precursor, Genesius Guild years ago. After many successful seasons in the Big Apple, they found themselves swimming in critical acclaim but suffocated by New York's tight space and notoriously high operating costs. So they began to search for a new home in which to base their evolving group, which they began to envision as a regional theatre company which would provide opportunities for actors, directors and the like, as well as develop new material for Broadway or Off-Broadway bound productions.They chose Asbury Park and the triCity region - simply fell in love with the possibilities this area afforded them. As we wrote back in May, it's a win-win situation; for Asbury, and the triCity region, it's an opportunity to claim ownership of an organization that could bring national cultural attention to the area.Before planning the coming week's production of HAIR in the Carousel, they set up shop in our funky, little city by establishing an office in the VFW building on Lake Avenue, held acting classes and readings, and laid the groundwork for realizing their potential by staging a few special performances."DayDreaming: Channeling Doris Day" held June 1st at Mattison Park was one. The enthusiasm generated that day helped propel them to their next event - in the most expansive sense of the word. That was a one-night only musical concert of Richard Skipper as Carol Channing in "Hello, Dolly" at the Paramount Theatre on June 14th. It was, both in our view and in the opinions we heard by many in the audience that evening, the night magic returned to that venerable stage. Now, ReVision Theatre is poised to work their spell on another historic Asbury venue. As with everything they've done and everything we hope they'll do, it's an informed and inspired choice - just like the selection of HAIR itself as their next production.Stephen Bishop Seely tells us that he and the other directors of ReVision literally hopped in a car with representatives from Madison Marquette and went on a tour of available performance spaces on and around the boardwalk. But it was a short trip; the marriage of tribal rock musical and the siren call of the somewhat gritty, raw space of the Carousel was a pitch perfect match. Stephen calls the opportunity to stage HAIR there "environmental staging."He says they settled on HAIR as their next project, after initially planning to select and stage an original work, because he and the other directors felt the excitement generated by Asbury Park, particularly the boardwalk, demanded an 'event' show.HAIR is certainly that event - for the times, generally, and for Asbury Park now specifically.Born 41 years ago in another - at the time - somewhat scrappy space, Joe Papp's Public Theater in lower Manhattan, HAIR burst onto the theatrical scene a year later on Broadway pulsing with freshness and vitality. Though the summer of love is 40 years gone, many of the same issues - war, racism, sexism and sexuality - are churning beneath the surface of our society today. "HAIR is more relevant today than in any other time during the past 30 years," Stephen says.ReVision solicited resumes for the directing chores from all over the country and settled on Andy Goldberg, an up and coming theatrical talent who has already made a mark in Berlin, Germany with Boney M., a tribute show to the Australian answer to ABBA, Daddy Cool. Andy tells triCity that he concurs with Seely. "HAIR isn't a museum piece," he says. "The present day will creep into this production, more by implication than by beating people over the head." He leapt at the chance to help re-invent the musical, which coincidently is also being revived in New York this week. It's a testament to the tenacity of the ReVision team that they were able to secure the rights for this production, a mere 60 miles away. It's that determination to push the envelope that Asbury should embrace. Just as it should the more controversial elements of HAIR, including its full frontal nudity. With the success of Asbury's boardwalk this summer comes danger - the danger of creeping conformity. We've always hoped this city would never fall into that abyss. And ReVision Theatre - as all good artistic endeavors should - is helping to prevent that from happening. It's a challenge Asbury should accept gratefully."The cast is excited to take their clothes off!" Stephen told us. Which probably isn't surprising since Andy told us that while they've been rehearsing up in New York City, they're steeping themselves in the time period of the 60s. That's when the raw energy of the young was channeled into a cultural war of their own choosing and making in an effort to effect.change.How much - and how little - has changed from 1968 to 2008 in the country, and in Asbury Park.Hats -and everything else - off to the exuberance of youth. And ReVision Theatre. HAIR will run August 15 through August 31; Thursdays & Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 7:00 pm & 10:30 pm; and Sundays at 7:00 pm. At the Carousel on the Boardwalk, 700 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park. All Tickets $35, General Admission. Buy tickets online at www.ReVisionTheatre.org.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Asbury’s ReVision:
How a theatre company will garner national applause for the triCity region
By Steven Froias
Tri-City News
May 29, 2008
ASBURY PARK – Regular readers of this newspaper may be forgiven if they feel that our editorial coverage sometimes borders on hyperbole if not down right hyperventilation. Hey – we admit that our zeal to uncover the promise and possibility of the triCity area sometimes gives us the vapors.
This isn’t one of those times, however. Rather, with the ReVision Theatre Company, we’re bringing you the real deal, straight up. Because the vision – or ReVision, if you will – of this group has the potential to garner for itself, Asbury and the triCity region the sort of national attention all three deserve.
ReVision Theatre has set up shop in Asbury Park, with offices in the VFW Post 1333 building (which is becoming an arts haven under Lou Parisi, commander).
The creative brain trust behind the ReVision Theatres consists of David E. Leidholt, Thomas Morrissey, and Stephen Bishop Seely, its Producing Artistic Directors. Lou Liberatore is its Literary Director. They’re joined by other members of their Board of Directors in launching this impressive endeavor in Asbury Park.
Here’s how they came to be here, in a proverbial nutshell. Thomas Morrissey founded the Genesius Theatre Guild in New York City in 1995. For ten years he served as its Artistic Director, gathering much acclaim in the role before deciding to take a break and cast himself in another. When he decided a comeback to Genesius was in the stars, the timing was fortuitous; the folks he had given the keys to were ready to move on.
As was Genesius – now with the surname Theatre Group. Morrissey sized up the landscape in New York, evaluated it through refreshed eyes, and decided it was time to hit the road – this time with company in tow rather than solo.
The bottom line aspect of theatrical production has been shifting for some time. That movement is largely leading out of the city and toward regional theatre groups like the Barrington Stage Company in the Massachusetts Berkshires, which work shopped and developed the Tony award-winning “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” before it ended up on Broadway. The prohibitive cost of nurturing new theatre in a gentrified New York is largely the cause.
The effect is the ReVision Theatre in Asbury Park, the re-branded Genesius. Its significance to the city – and the triCity region – could be profound.
ReVision plans to be a regional theatrical resource, just like the Barrington Stage Company. A breeding ground for developing new shows, plays, talent, ideas, you name it. It’s the cultural equivalent of nationally recognized, great architecture on the waterfront, or even Asbury’s historic role in the music industry. This is exciting, heady stuff.
And the people behind ReVision have the professional credentials and chops to pull it off. Their list of accomplishments could fill this issue, so instead we’d rather direct you to the ReVision website (http://www.revisiontheatre.org/) where you’ll find a page dedicated to their bios. They will be operating as a professional regional theatre under Equity (Actor’s Equity Association, the union for professional actors and stage managers) and SSDC (Society of Stage Directors & Choreographers union) contracts. They will also be utilizing and contracting professional musicians, non-union professionals, interns and volunteers. They’re a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and are registered with both the NJ & NY Charities Registration Bureaus.
But forget about the technical and legal jargon. What most impressed us about the four men we met listed above last week, at their office in the VFW Building of Lake Avenue, was their enthusiasm, and urban as well as urbane attitudes.
Let’s be clear – this isn’t a gang on New Yorkers dropping down sixty miles to impose some sort of creative fiat on the triCities. Hardly.
Rather, they carefully searched and researched their move to Asbury and chose their new home based on what the region has to offer. Think about that.
This is a company of first rate theatre professionals with national, industry-wide reputations impressed by what they saw and excited by the opportunity to plant roots, harness the artistic vibe they sense and make some hay here. For Asbury, and the triCity region, it’s an opportunity to claim ownership of an organization that could bring national cultural attention to the area. It’s a win-win for everybody.
The diversity within and without Asbury makes the area appealing to ReVision, and is what will help fuel the company’s artistic destiny. Part of the new theatrical paradigm means finding and tailoring plays and performances to specific audiences, with an emphasis on outreach to the young, the hip, and the hip-hop. ReVision wants to embrace them all. Indeed, they’ll be looking to Asbury and the triCities for inspiration and guidance.
The guys told us that they very much want the city to “take ownership” of ReVision Theatre. In essence, that means participating in their workshops (they have writing, acting and script-reading events scheduled; see the website for a complete list), supporting them financially and, of course, attending their productions.
They’ve spent some time preparing the stage, as it were, and are now ready to fill the seats. On Sunday, June 1st, they’ll be presenting a touring production of “Daydreaming: Channeling Doris Day” at Mattison Park. (Ticket and reservation info follows the story.)
And on Saturday, June 14th they’ll be producing a very special version of “Hello, Dolly”, with Richard Skipper as Carol Channing, at the Paramount Theatre as a fundraiser. (Again, info follows.)
So – what’s up with a new kind of theatre company doing “Hello, Dolly” as an introduction?
Leidholt belted out a laugh at that one, but then quickly explained that it’s done with a twist, as befits an outfit call ReVision. He was quickly baked up be the entire group with a chorus of clarification that, yes, the company will be on the edge at times, and yes, it’ll be dynamic and creative, but also every now and then they have to sell some tickets. That means some musicals.
As stated above, these guys are professionals; they know they have to turn a buck. And hey – what’s not to like about Dolly Levi? (Or Carol Channing for that matter.)
Immediately after saying “Hello,” ReVision will plunge into getting their next production ready. This will be one that serves to define they’re creative aspirations, as it will be a debut musical, developed from submission they’ve solicited and want to workshop. It’s scheduled for August and we’ll bring you more about it when we get the details.
Because reporting on ReVision Theatre is something we plan on turning into a long running production, it’s always been our contention that in order to be a great city, Asbury Park should act like a great city.
ReVision is just the stage to play upon.
Ticket and Show Information:
Daydreaming: Channeling Doris Day, a new musical starring Kathy Morath and Christopher Stephens at Mattison park Martini Lounge & Restaurant, 649 Mattison Avenue, Asbury Park, Sunday June 1 at 5pm. Tickets are $10, seating limited. Call 732 – 455 – 5039 or log onto http://www.revision.org/. Synopsis: Flash back to the “50’s” when Doris Day was one of the biggest names in show business. Kitsch is alive and well and has never been so much fun than at the east coast premiere of this intimate new musical directed by Broadway’s Dennis Bailey. The show is a rollicking musical journey through a roadmap of songs made popular by Doris Day. The musical features many Day songs including Daydreaming, I’ll Never Stop Loving You, I Gotta Sing Away These Blues, Someone Like You, Away the Wind Blows, Secret Love, and the Oscar winning song Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be Will Be).
Richard Skipper as Carol Channing in Hello, Dolly! a one night only benefit performance for ReVision Theatre at the paramount Theatre, Saturday, June 14 8 p.m. Tickets are $50, $25, and $15. Call 732 – 455 – 5039 or log onto http://www.revision.org/. Synopsis: The show, you know. Let’s introduce you to Richard Skipper. He’s made impersonating Carol Channing an art form, winning numerous NYC cabaret performance awards in the process. His sell-out performances attract Senators (Lautenberg), gossip columnists, and even Ms. Channing herself.
By Steven Froias
Tri-City News
May 29, 2008
ASBURY PARK – Regular readers of this newspaper may be forgiven if they feel that our editorial coverage sometimes borders on hyperbole if not down right hyperventilation. Hey – we admit that our zeal to uncover the promise and possibility of the triCity area sometimes gives us the vapors.
This isn’t one of those times, however. Rather, with the ReVision Theatre Company, we’re bringing you the real deal, straight up. Because the vision – or ReVision, if you will – of this group has the potential to garner for itself, Asbury and the triCity region the sort of national attention all three deserve.
ReVision Theatre has set up shop in Asbury Park, with offices in the VFW Post 1333 building (which is becoming an arts haven under Lou Parisi, commander).
The creative brain trust behind the ReVision Theatres consists of David E. Leidholt, Thomas Morrissey, and Stephen Bishop Seely, its Producing Artistic Directors. Lou Liberatore is its Literary Director. They’re joined by other members of their Board of Directors in launching this impressive endeavor in Asbury Park.
Here’s how they came to be here, in a proverbial nutshell. Thomas Morrissey founded the Genesius Theatre Guild in New York City in 1995. For ten years he served as its Artistic Director, gathering much acclaim in the role before deciding to take a break and cast himself in another. When he decided a comeback to Genesius was in the stars, the timing was fortuitous; the folks he had given the keys to were ready to move on.
As was Genesius – now with the surname Theatre Group. Morrissey sized up the landscape in New York, evaluated it through refreshed eyes, and decided it was time to hit the road – this time with company in tow rather than solo.
The bottom line aspect of theatrical production has been shifting for some time. That movement is largely leading out of the city and toward regional theatre groups like the Barrington Stage Company in the Massachusetts Berkshires, which work shopped and developed the Tony award-winning “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” before it ended up on Broadway. The prohibitive cost of nurturing new theatre in a gentrified New York is largely the cause.
The effect is the ReVision Theatre in Asbury Park, the re-branded Genesius. Its significance to the city – and the triCity region – could be profound.
ReVision plans to be a regional theatrical resource, just like the Barrington Stage Company. A breeding ground for developing new shows, plays, talent, ideas, you name it. It’s the cultural equivalent of nationally recognized, great architecture on the waterfront, or even Asbury’s historic role in the music industry. This is exciting, heady stuff.
And the people behind ReVision have the professional credentials and chops to pull it off. Their list of accomplishments could fill this issue, so instead we’d rather direct you to the ReVision website (http://www.revisiontheatre.org/) where you’ll find a page dedicated to their bios. They will be operating as a professional regional theatre under Equity (Actor’s Equity Association, the union for professional actors and stage managers) and SSDC (Society of Stage Directors & Choreographers union) contracts. They will also be utilizing and contracting professional musicians, non-union professionals, interns and volunteers. They’re a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and are registered with both the NJ & NY Charities Registration Bureaus.
But forget about the technical and legal jargon. What most impressed us about the four men we met listed above last week, at their office in the VFW Building of Lake Avenue, was their enthusiasm, and urban as well as urbane attitudes.
Let’s be clear – this isn’t a gang on New Yorkers dropping down sixty miles to impose some sort of creative fiat on the triCities. Hardly.
Rather, they carefully searched and researched their move to Asbury and chose their new home based on what the region has to offer. Think about that.
This is a company of first rate theatre professionals with national, industry-wide reputations impressed by what they saw and excited by the opportunity to plant roots, harness the artistic vibe they sense and make some hay here. For Asbury, and the triCity region, it’s an opportunity to claim ownership of an organization that could bring national cultural attention to the area. It’s a win-win for everybody.
The diversity within and without Asbury makes the area appealing to ReVision, and is what will help fuel the company’s artistic destiny. Part of the new theatrical paradigm means finding and tailoring plays and performances to specific audiences, with an emphasis on outreach to the young, the hip, and the hip-hop. ReVision wants to embrace them all. Indeed, they’ll be looking to Asbury and the triCities for inspiration and guidance.
The guys told us that they very much want the city to “take ownership” of ReVision Theatre. In essence, that means participating in their workshops (they have writing, acting and script-reading events scheduled; see the website for a complete list), supporting them financially and, of course, attending their productions.
They’ve spent some time preparing the stage, as it were, and are now ready to fill the seats. On Sunday, June 1st, they’ll be presenting a touring production of “Daydreaming: Channeling Doris Day” at Mattison Park. (Ticket and reservation info follows the story.)
And on Saturday, June 14th they’ll be producing a very special version of “Hello, Dolly”, with Richard Skipper as Carol Channing, at the Paramount Theatre as a fundraiser. (Again, info follows.)
So – what’s up with a new kind of theatre company doing “Hello, Dolly” as an introduction?
Leidholt belted out a laugh at that one, but then quickly explained that it’s done with a twist, as befits an outfit call ReVision. He was quickly baked up be the entire group with a chorus of clarification that, yes, the company will be on the edge at times, and yes, it’ll be dynamic and creative, but also every now and then they have to sell some tickets. That means some musicals.
As stated above, these guys are professionals; they know they have to turn a buck. And hey – what’s not to like about Dolly Levi? (Or Carol Channing for that matter.)
Immediately after saying “Hello,” ReVision will plunge into getting their next production ready. This will be one that serves to define they’re creative aspirations, as it will be a debut musical, developed from submission they’ve solicited and want to workshop. It’s scheduled for August and we’ll bring you more about it when we get the details.
Because reporting on ReVision Theatre is something we plan on turning into a long running production, it’s always been our contention that in order to be a great city, Asbury Park should act like a great city.
ReVision is just the stage to play upon.
Ticket and Show Information:
Daydreaming: Channeling Doris Day, a new musical starring Kathy Morath and Christopher Stephens at Mattison park Martini Lounge & Restaurant, 649 Mattison Avenue, Asbury Park, Sunday June 1 at 5pm. Tickets are $10, seating limited. Call 732 – 455 – 5039 or log onto http://www.revision.org/. Synopsis: Flash back to the “50’s” when Doris Day was one of the biggest names in show business. Kitsch is alive and well and has never been so much fun than at the east coast premiere of this intimate new musical directed by Broadway’s Dennis Bailey. The show is a rollicking musical journey through a roadmap of songs made popular by Doris Day. The musical features many Day songs including Daydreaming, I’ll Never Stop Loving You, I Gotta Sing Away These Blues, Someone Like You, Away the Wind Blows, Secret Love, and the Oscar winning song Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be Will Be).
Richard Skipper as Carol Channing in Hello, Dolly! a one night only benefit performance for ReVision Theatre at the paramount Theatre, Saturday, June 14 8 p.m. Tickets are $50, $25, and $15. Call 732 – 455 – 5039 or log onto http://www.revision.org/. Synopsis: The show, you know. Let’s introduce you to Richard Skipper. He’s made impersonating Carol Channing an art form, winning numerous NYC cabaret performance awards in the process. His sell-out performances attract Senators (Lautenberg), gossip columnists, and even Ms. Channing herself.
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