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High School MUSICALS Theatre

Crystal Lake Central High School performing Winter musical “42nd Street”

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL, Feb. 16, 2022- Crystal Lake Central High School will perform 42nd Street for its winter musical. Performances will occur on Thursday, March 10 at 7 pm, Friday, March 11 at 7 pm, Saturday, March 12 at 7 pm, and Sunday, March 13 at 1 pm.

Forty-Second Street is a stage adaptation of the classic 1933 movie with music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Al Dubin, and book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble. The production was nominated for eight Tony Awards, winning two including Best Musical. Come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway! 42nd Street celebrates Broadway, Times Square, and the magic of show biz with wit, humor, and pizzazz. At the height of the Great Depression, aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to the big city from Allentown PA, and soon lands her first big job in the ensemble of a glitzy new Broadway show. But just before opening night, the leading lady breaks her ankle. Will Peggy be able to step in and become a star? The score is chock-full of Broadway standards, including “We’re In the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo” and “Forty-Second Street.”

This year’s musical is produced by CLCHS choir director Kimberly Scherrer, featuring the choreography of Chesney (Murphy) Lofgren. Chesney has been an integral part of the directing team for over ten years at CLC. Her exceptional talent is showcased through the students in every tap and jazz production number. Leading characters played by CLCHS students include junior Ian Farrell-Freeland (Julian Marsch), junior Raina Thiegs (Peggy Sawyer), freshman Corey Atkinson (Billy Lawlor), senior Natalie Virgil (Dorothy Brock), junior Bethany Sternberg (Ann Reilly), senior Connor Hershey (Andy Lee), senior Evie Iwin (Bert Barry), senior Katelyn Santoro (Maggie Jones), junior Nathan Szadowski (Abner Dillon) and senior Micah Kellerman (Pat Denning).

A strong supporting cast of minor leads and ensemble members carry the weight of the show through tap choreography. These CLCHS students include senior Ida Alt (Gladys), senior Madi Blackmore (Lorraine), freshman Riya Gumidyala (Millie), freshman Ava Heldt (Robin), senior Kiera Majzner (Ethel), senior Maddie Novotney (Phyllis), junior Naomi Virgil (Diane), junior Avery Wilson (Winnie) and several other ensemble members.

In total, approximately 100 Crystal Lake Central students will be involved in the production as part of the cast, pit, and crew. Additional production team support is provided by Cris Kingston (Director), Eric Thiegs (Ensemble Director), Keith Levin (Pit Orchestra Director), Steve Knope (Set Director), Becca Polk (Costume Director/Dance Captain), Steve Scherrer (Lighting Director) and Anders Stadler (Sound Director/Assistant Director).

“We hope this high energy and the infectious show brings you to your feet. The tap choreography has brought new life to our theater following a year of Covid shutdowns. We look forward to having audiences back in our space to root for Peggy and to fall in love with musical theater, just as she does.”

Tickets can be purchased online at www.clchs theater.ludus.com

MUSICALS Theatre

RAUE CENTER PRESENTS “ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE”

Based on a true story!

Crystal Lake, Ill.: – February 15, 2022 – Based on a true story! Raue Center For The Arts is excited to bring a musical based on the true story of Patsy Cline’s friendship with Houston housewife and fan Louise Seger to the stage! “Always… Patsy Cline” opens on March 19, 2022, and runs select dates through April 16, 2022.

“After so many years in COVID 19 lockdown, we are thrilled to be producing this amazing musical that really celebrates life and friendship,” said artistic director, Richard Kuranda.   “Sara Beth Tanner is a STAR that brings Patsy to life!  Michelle Tibble is funny and charming as Louise Seger. This show is phenomenal thanks to Kevin, our director. He last mounted “The Addams Family” which broke box office records!”  

In 1961, after meeting at one of Cline’s concerts in Houston, the two women struck up a friendship. When Cline finally left for Dallas, her next job, the two women had exchanged addresses and telephone numbers. Seger never expected to hear from Cline again, but soon after she left, Seger received the first of many letters and phone calls from Cline. This pen-pal friendship lasted until Cline’s untimely death in a plane crash in 1963 and is the inspiration for the heartfelt musical. 

“Always… Patsy Cline” focuses on a fateful evening at Houston’s Esquire Ballroom when Seger hears of Cline’s death in a plane crash. Seger supplies a narrative while Cline floats in and out of the set singing tunes that made her famous – Anytime, Walkin’ After Midnight, She’s Got You, Sweet Dreams, and Crazy – to name a few.

The show combines music, humor with the bittersweetness of grief. It offers fans who remember Cline while she was alive a chance to look back while giving new fans an idea of what seeing her was like and what she meant to her original fans.

Raue Center’s “Always…Patsy Cline” is directed by Kevin Wiczer with music direction by Bryan McCaffrey and choreography by Billy Seger. The cast includes Sarah Beth Tanner as Patsy Cline and Michelle Tibble as Louise Seger.

“Always… Patsy Cline” runs select dates March 19 – April 16, 2022.  Tickets are $39.50 (RaueNOW Members get 30% Off) Student discounts are also available. For more information, please visit rauecenter.org.

 

Cast:

Patsy Cline  – Sarah Beth Tanner

Louise Seger – Michelle Tibble

Understudy / Swing – Autumn Thelander

Understudy/ Swing- Rhiannon Palmer

Production & Design Team: 

Director: Kevin Wiczer

Musical Director: Bryan McCaffrey

Assistant Director & Choreographer: Billy Seger

Lighting Designer: Mickie Marie

Costume Designer: Rae Melnik

Sound Designer: Jonesy Jones

Scenic Designer and Artist: William Schmiel

Props Master: Cris Kingston

PSM: Caro Arana

ASM: Rhiannon Palmer

Director of Production: Jarrod Bainter

Producer: Jess Urban

Producer: Kyle Schneider

Artistic Director: Richard Kuranda

Ticket Options: (price per ticket)
Non-Member: $39.50*
RaueNOW Member: $27.65*
Discounts & special offers are available. 

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Location:
 Raue Center For The Arts
26 N. Williams Street
Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Box Office: 815.356.9212 | 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays – Fridays | Closed Sat, Sun. and Mon. | Open 1 hour prior to scheduled performances.

Directions:
 Crystal Lake Stop
Harvard Line on the Metra
I-90 to Randall Road Exit

UPDATED COVID POLICY! Raue Center appreciates your help in our efforts to keep the theater a safe environment for all. As of 2.16.22 Raue Center NO LONGER requires vaccination or negative tests for entry to shows and events.  Masks continue to be required while in the theater unless actively eating or drinking. For more information visit rauecenter.org/covid/ For questions or concerns, please contact our Box Office at 815-356-9212.

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

Community Theatre

Creative Differences

Fostering community through the arts.

by Maribeth Ling, box office lead at Raue Center For The Arts

Patrons have flocked to the Theater since as early as the fifth century, looking for a supportive and immersive experience. To be transported out of their own lives and into those on stage. It’s one of the things I love about the Theater: a passion my family helped instill in me.

One of the first live performances that I can recall seeing was my Uncle performing in 1776 at the Shady Lane Theater in Marengo. That performance steered me to want to try acting for myself. so my twin sister and I joined a production of Oliver Twist shortly after. It was an experience that led me to realize that I didn’t like being on stage. I enjoyed being behind the scenes much more than being in the spotlight. My sister, on the other hand, loved being onstage.

David M. Rubenstein once said that “The Performing Arts tend to unify people in a way nothing else does.” That is the beauty of the Theater. No matter who you are, there will be something that speaks to you—Introverts versus Extroverts, Music people versus Orators, Dramas versus Comedies. There is room for everyone at the Theater, whether they want to be in the spotlight or behind the scenes. My sister and I are a lot alike in many ways, but the theater gave us a place to express our differences and still share in a common experience.

I first came to Raue Center For The Arts in High School. My choir performed on its stage every year during the second semester. When we arrived, the first thing we took note of was its beauty. You can’t help but look around in awe at the Spanish-style décor. The lobby’s tile flooring and ironwork are not found in many areas. We couldn’t wait to perform on the stage, under the starlit sky. It’s a beautiful but relaxed environment.

Later on, I came to see the Whirling Dervishes, movie screenings, several WSR shows, and even a comedian or two. It wasn’t until I started to work here, however, that I understood what Raue Center for the Arts means to the Community. The Theater has a part in community events such as the Bob Blazier Run, the Johnny Appleseed Festival, and the 6×6 project. They provide space to different Dance studios and host their educational programs and shows. Marshall McLuhan once said, “Anyone who tries to make a distinction between education and entertainment doesn’t know the first thing about either.” Through Education, they allow students to come into their own, developing their interests and help create their sense of community that will carry on for years to come.

I have never seen a more peer encouraged, supportive group of children than the students at Raue Center School For The Arts. The variety that is offered allows everyone to get involved in the Arts.

One of the best parts of my job is hearing about how the Raue has affected its patrons. We have had patrons come in with their families to share their memories in the building. Recently, a patron talked with me about how they used to work in the building when it was a movie theater. It was fun to listen to his memories of what the building looked like. I’ve overheard patrons talking about how they lived in the upstairs apartments, currently our 26N Lounge space. Another patron talked about how participating in the 6×6 project reignited their passion for art. Raue Center for the Arts is enriching lives for the best through the power of Performing Arts; I had no idea how much it was needed until I became a part of it.

Photo by Todd Heintz Photography.

High School MUSICALS Theatre

Prairie Ridge Presents “Into the Woods”

Prairie Ridge Presents “Into the Woods”
KARI FIRAK JAN 21 2022 8:36 AM
Prairie Ridge Theatre presents “Into the Woods” for this year’s spring musical. Tickets are $10, get them while they last!

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Performance Dates & Times:

Feb 25 – 7 p.m.
Feb 26 – 7 p.m.
March 3 – 7 p.m.
March 4 – 7 p.m.
March 5 – 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.

The Brothers Grimm hit the stage with an epic fairytale about wishes, family, and the choices we make. James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece… and a rare modern classic. The Tony-winning show’s story follows a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.

More info at https://pr.d155.org/about/prhs-news

High School MUSICALS

CLS Theatre Presents: Mamma Mia!

Crystal Lake South Theatre presents “Mamma Mia!” for this year’s spring musical. Tickets are $10, and go on sale Friday, February 4, at 6:00 p.m.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Performance Dates & Times:

February 18, 19, 25 – 7:00 p.m.
February 26 – 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.

The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast of non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a guaranteed smash hit for any theatre. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!

More info at https://cls.d155.org/about/school-news

MUSICALS Theatre

CHRISTMAS CAROL UNWRAPPED

original script Rob Fearn & Leo Appleton, and (obviously) adapted from the short story by Charles Dickens 

directed by Sheri Warren
music direction by Kyle Schneider
choreography & asst. direction by Billy Seger
musical arrangement by Evan Swanson & Kyle Schneider 

Adult Cast

Tony Calkins • Rachel Carreras • Christopher Davis Joe Lewis • Mark Mahallak • Erin O’Brien • Mary Rose

Youth Cast

Addison Ambrosia • Josh Annen • Piper Azzarello • Caleigh Banks • Carter Bergman • Liam Burke Mia Clifford • Hannah Covalt • David Daskalov • Kayleigh DeGeorge • Lorelai Dickson • Kennedy Farmer Charlotte Farmer • Annalee Fisher • Charlie Fisher • Addie Hartzheim • Kendra Heidtke • Elin Kaye Jonathan Kinkade • Reagan Kottke • Hazel Krotser • Makynli Kusch • Colin Lossman • Tara Maguire Emma McBreen • Fiona Miceli • Paige Montanye • Brooklyn Morey • Isabelle Mudra • Maddie Olszewski Easton Paulson • Olivia Price • Faye Radeni • Noah Rea • Brennan Reinhard • Meadow Roth • Courtney Schaal Tatum Schultz • Sydney Sullivan • Lucy Thome • Abigail Thompson • Charlotte Thompson • Brooke Ulen Blakely Voight • Katie Witt • Faith Zabielski • Olivia Zak • Audrey Zimmerman • Caroline Zimmerman Maggie Zimmerman • Natalie Zimmerman

RCSA Backstage Crew: Stella Thome, Mia Guerrieri, and Campbell Krausen 

Orchestra: Keyboard – Kyle Schneider | Guitar – Patrick Jansen Bass – Adam Huckeby
Drums – Aldren Briones | Reed – Barb Schotanus 

Photos courtesy of Todd Heintz Photography.

Production

Stage Manager: Dan Mitchell
Assistant Stage Manager: Jaclyn Mitchell
Costume Designer: Patty Halajian
Lighting Designer/Props Master: Jarrod Bainter
Sound Designer: Commedore Clark
Scenic Designer/Charge Ar5st: William Schmiel
Teaching Assistant: Erin O’Brien
Founding Artistic Director: Richard Kuranda
Producer: Kyle Schneider
Associate Producer: Amanda Flahive

This amateur production is by arrangement with NODA Limited. RA Christmas Carol Script 

Comedy Family-Friendly News Sketch/Improv Theatre

GREENROOM IMPROV JOINS RAUE AS RESIDENT COMPANY 

Improv Comedy for the whole family Finds a home at Raue Center!

Now in its 20th year, GreenRoom Improv joins Raue Center as one of its resident companies, performing its unique blend of clean, high-energy, multi-faceted improv comedy. Raue Center is the place to see GreenRoom Improv!

GreenRoom members include Dave Hunter, Matthew Aldis, Kerry Cox, Sam Barbaro, Christian Zierke, Miriam Naponelli, Jess Smith, Paul Gunsul (piano), & Erik Scheele (piano). For more information, visit greenroomimprov.com

Recommended Audience: All Ages

ABOUT GREENROOM

GreenRoom Improv is an ensemble-based theatre company that specializes in improvisation. GreenRoom was founded by a group of Judson University (Elgin, IL) students in 1999 as a result of the cancellation of the school’s Theatre program. Since then GreenRoom has performed nationally for a wide range of audiences and events. They currently have residencies in two theaters: The Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin, IL, and Raue Center For The Arts in Crystal Lake, IL where they perform monthly. In addition to these residencies, GreenRoom plays multiple bookings throughout the year with their unique blend of clean, high-energy, multi-faceted improv comedy.

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org or call the Box Office at 815.356.9212.

High School Theatre

LOVE STORY AT CARY GROVE HIGH

Don’t miss the first live theatrical production of Cary Grove High School’s 2021-2022 season!

Tickets are on sale now online and will be available at the door. Our CG Drama cast and crew are excited to welcome back our audiences for Failure: A Love Story!

By the end of 1928, all three Fail sisters will be dead – expiring in reverse order, youngest to oldest, from a blunt object to the head, disappearance, and finally, consumption. Tuneful songs and a whimsical chorus follow the story of Nelly, Jenny June, and Gerty as they live out their lives above the family clock repair shop near the Chicago River before their time unexpectedly runs out.

Cary Grove High School is excited to welcome back our CG Drama audience for this magical, musical fable where, in the end, the power of love is far greater than any individual’s successes or failures. Click on the button below to buy tickets.

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