The Misdirected Theatre Company Returns!

The Acclaimed Misdirected Theatre Company returns in the Jack Neary follow up to Robin Hood!

The Misdirected Theatre Company Presents:

Featuring:

Margaret: Maggie Nichols

Ozzie: Matt Arnold

Cynthia: Elizabeth Hartford

Larry: Doug Fitzgerald

Jason: Tim Fairley

Warren: Adam Fastman

 

 

Directed by:
Coral Ash and Shaine Carney

 

 

The Regent TheatreArlington, MA

April 9-10, 10:30am

Mansfield Music and Arts Society Mansfield, MA

April 16, 11:00am & 1:00pm

April 17, 11:00am

Riverside Theatre Works Hyde Park, MA

April 30-May 1, 11:00am

For additional info and tickets please visit http://www.makeshiftheatre.com/

Calling all Ducks!

Makeshift Theatre Co. is having auditions for the final show of it's 6th season!!

THE UGLY DUCKLING, adapted by Jack Neary.

 

Makeshift Theatre Co. has been producing high quality and affordable family theatre in the Boston area for the past 6 years. 

Please visit us on the web @ www.makeshifttheatre.com. 

The Ugly Duckling is the second in Jack Neary's MISDIRECTED THEATRE series, in which a theatre company staff is challenged to put on a scheduled show when the actors don't appear. As usual, this Misdirected telling of the tale is fast, furious and funny, but ultimately very moving as it cleverly addresses the issue of acceptance in society, and the power of love and friendship.

 

Auditions will be held February 22 from 7-10.  They will consist of cold readings from the script.

Rehearsals will be 3 nights a week in March and performances will be weekend days in April (excluding Easter Weekend.) 

To schedule an audition time please email a head shot and resume to Artistic Director, Coral Ash @ coral@makeshifttheatre.com

 

SEEKING:

Larry, the Sound Designer: He hasn't missed a meal in a while.  Plays multiple roles.

Cynthia, the Costumer: She is young and pretty, and is charge of the theatre's costumes and props.  She plays the story teller.

Warren, the UPS Guy: Warren is young and handsome, dashing-looking. Plays multiple roles.

Jason, the Technical Director: JASON is a very tall and muscular young man, who is incredible shy.  Plays the Ugly Duckling.

 

WWW.MAKESHIFTTHEATRE.COM

 

 

Surrender the Booty!!! (Day Two)

Well folks, a new show is upon us! Full of Buckled swashes, adventure, comedy...PIRATES! And that means we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. Today we sit down with someone who is no stranger to the Makeshift Family, Mr. Matt Arnold.

So, Matt, tell us a bit about the character you play.
I play two characters throughout the play. Black Dog is a mean, nasty pirate who bullies people to get what he wants. Israel Hands is an equally mean, equally nasty pirate, but he's not terribly bright. My favorite thing about them is that, well, they're pirates! Pirates are definitely in the running to be the coolest thing ever, and it's a lot of fun to play not one, but two.


You've worked with Makeshift before, right?
I've done lots of shows with Makeshift in the past. I've been (in no particular order) three princes, a king, a French guy with a sword, a French Guy with a talking cat, and a bird.

What's the hardest thing you've ever had to do as an actor?
Auditioning. Since we're talking about Treasure Island, I'll compare it to treasure hunting... except instead of a shovel, you're digging with your face. There's a tiny fraction of a chance you'll get what you're after, and it doesn't actually hurt to try, but it's really uncomfortable while you're doing it no matter how much you prepare.


How do you prepare before you go on stage to perform?
Honestly, I don't. I just step on stage and "go." Even with all the lines and blocking and memorization, theatre is so spontaneous that I feel there's not much an actor can do to prepare once the rehearsal process is over. The important thing is to be aware of everything that's going on onstage and to work with it, since no two performances are ever going to be the same.


How do you memorize all those lines?
It just sort of happens as part of rehearsal. If there's a large monologue I need to memorize I'll take a few hours to go over it, then recite it in my head everywhere I go just to be sure, but the "basic" lines come naturally through rehearsal.

Is it hard to learn all the sword fighting?
The hard part isn't learning how to use the sword or even memorizing the fight sequences. The tricky part is keeping total coordination and control during the fight. All the fighters need to be not only aware of themselves, but of each other. If someone messes up it can be a disaster; at best, the fight looks bad. At worst, someone can get hurt. Safety is priority number one.

Makeshift Theatre Co Presents: Treasure Island Opens this February.

For tickets and showtimes please visit http://www.makeshifttheatre.com/

Surrender the Booty!

No, we're not talking about the truely awesome new theme to Booty Bay in the new World of Warcraft: Cataclysm expansion (Though lets face it, if Nero had his way, we'd all be hearing about how he spent 4 hours last night with his 85 Worgen Rogue battling his way through Grim Batol only to have his group fall apart right before he could get his fingers on Cho'Gall's Missive. Whatever that is. But Cho'Gall is a bad guy so I suppose his Missive would be something hands should be gotten around. Look, I'm not saying I lied and it was me and my Undead Warlock, but frankly I'm a busy guy and I've got things to do so if you're not going to quest to the end, why even bother in the first place? Stupid PUGs...)

*ahem*

Point is, Makeshift has a new show on the horizon and that show has PIRATES!

YES! Pirates!

And there's an ISLAND. Yes an Island. But unlike more well known islands, this one has TREASURE instead of smoke monsters and mind bending mysteries.



Next month, Makeshift returns with the incredible, exceptional, awe inspiring, totally uber l33t Treasure Island.

Pirates! Booty! Long Johns! Silver! Jims! and Hawkings!

Can you tell we're excited?!

Well we want you to be excited too, so once again, we're sitting down with a cast member for an informative infosession to give you, our faithful readers, a glimpse into the people that make up Makeshift Theatre Co. Today we are sitting down with newcomer Todd Larson.

1) Tell me a bit about the character you play. What do you like about him/her?
Squire Trelawney is a blustery, idealistic and often naive magistrate (a landed gentry landowner type) who organizes and orchestrates the trip to Treasure Island, only to see his fantastic plans go awry when Long John Silver commits mutiny and claims the ship and treasure for himself. I like him because I enjoy playing British gentlemen with thick accents, and I like the fact that he is unusually childlike and daydreamy in his aspirations for his age, therefore vulnerable to critical errors of judgment, which I myself can be at times.


2) What is/was the hardest thing you've ever had to do as an actor? Playing multiple roles as one of the lead actors in The Christus, an annual touring passion play staged by St. Anthony Shrine in Boston. It was hard because of the diversity of characters I had to play (which included the Angel Gabriel, a tax collector, and one of the thieves crucified with Jesus) and the often angry, ranting temperament of the director.


3) What was the most fun you've ever had as an actor?
Studying, analyzing and developing my role of King Henry VIII in Robert Bolt's A Man for All Seasons with minimal direction.

4) How do you prepare before you go on stage to perform?
I thoroughly study my script, making notes of the character's subtext (inner thoughts that accompany the lines) and intentions. I also go over the lines again and again to memorize them as early in rehearsals as possible.


5) What advice would you give to a young person in the audience that might be interested in performing? Project your voice forcefully, put your whole self into your role, and don't be afraid to take risks. Also, study your script thoroughly and carefully.


6) Who are some of your heroes and why?
Laurence Olivier, Christopher Plummer and Orson Welles, for being my favorite actors of all time; Peter Sellers and Alan Arkin, for being models for versatility in comic acting; and John Houseman, for being an academic and theatrical role model as Professor Kingsfield in The Paper Chase.

7) How do you memorize all those lines?
I go over them several times on the T and during meals, and I write in their subtext to help me understand their context.

Makeshift Theatre Co Presents: Treasure Island Opens this February.

For tickets and showtimes please visit http://www.makeshifttheatre.com/

Calling all Actors!!!!

Makeshift Theatre Co. seeking actors for it's winter production of

TREASURE ISLAND

Adapted by Jack Neary and Directed by Andrew Rhodes.

Auditions will be held on December 13rd and 15th from 7-10PM

And will consist of a cold reading from the script. Stage combat experience a plus.

Performances will be held February 5th & 6th at the Regent Theatre in Arlington, and at least 3 additional dates in the following 2 weeks.

For directions and to schedule an audition slot please email a copy of your headshot and resume to vinnie@makeshifttheatre.com

ROLES

some actors will be playing multiple roles

Ben Gun: a scrawny, toothless, ragged sailor. Agile, spry, energetic. Cackles when he talks.

Long John Silver: The Epitome of the dastardly pirate Has one leg and walks with a crutch.

Jim: Young boy works in his Mother's pub. Destined for adventure.

Billy Bones: Old, sickly pirate. Clearly on his last legs. (man/woman)

Pew: Tiny weathered seedy looking pirate. Voice like an annoying aunt. (man/woman)

Jim's Mother:Taking care of her son sine the loss of her husband. (man/woman)

Black Dog: another sinister looking alpha male pirate. (man/woman)

Squire Trelawney: A blustery magistrate.

Doctor Livesey: A strong and savvy woman.

George Merry: Pirate, Silver's conniving henchman. (man/woman)

Israel hands: Pirate, Silver's not so bright henchman (man/woman)

Captain Smollett: Stalwart captain of the HISPANIOLA

Lieutenant Gray:Captain Smollett's right hand man. Honest and true sailor. (man/woman)

For more info visit www.makeshifttheatre.com

or email vinnie@makeshifttheatre.com

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Nine)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. Today we conclude our spectacular series of interviews, chatting with Jessica Barstis.

So, Jessica you're a newcomer to the Makeshift Family! Introduce yourself to everyone!
Hi! I'm Jess Barstis. I grew up outside of Boston and have been in love with theatre ever since my mom forced me to be the crocodile in Peter Pan when I was eight. I've been doing shows ever since. I tend to go towards musicals because I like to be a big cheeseball, but I always enjoy being in plays too, of course! =)
It's my first time with Makeshift, but I absolutely love the company! Everyone's amazingly creative and fun to work with, and it was great how the cast just clicked and started to work off of each other like we have in a relatively short amount of time.


Who do you play in Princess and the Pea?
I play "Cincinatti" Sue Morton. I like the entire sassy dynamic of the band, to be honest, because all three characters together are just way too much fun. I try to bring as much of myself as I possibly can to any character, but I already did see some of myself in her just reading the script- she's a fun loving girl who just wants to rock out to some jazz!


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
I had to learn to trust my first instincts, and not end up overthinking every single little thing a character I was playing might do.

Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why?
It'll sound silly, but whichever show I am performing in at the time. When I devote so much time and energy to something, I have to really, REALLY be in love with it, because otherwise I get bored (I have the attention span of a goldfish). Plus, every show brings something different to my life, whether it be new friends, a personal lesson learned, of just the overall experience itself.


What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
I make sure that I'm warmed up and ready to go. Also, I try to get into character and drink lots of water to distract myself from the performance butterflies!

What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
Never allow yourself to get discouraged. Get involved in shows, classes, whatever you can wherever you can to learn as much as you can, and then put it all to use.

What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea?
Be who you are, say what you feel, trust in your heart, and someone will love and respect you for it.
 
 

The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA

Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Eight)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with another familiar face to Makeshift Theatre Co, Tim Fairley.


Hi Tim, tell us a bit about yourself!
I'm from newton ma and I went to Newton South High School. My first love in theatre has always been Shakespeare which I first started doing at Newton South in collaboration with Newton North, but I also get a lot of joy doing theatre for children. I have previously done Hansel and Gretel, and The Emperor's New Clothes. Hansel and Gretel was my favorite because I got to ham it up with Andy.

Who do you play in Princess and the Pea?
I play Jim the Tailor. I really like him because he is very honest and I'd like to think that I am that honest.

What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
That is a tough question but I think the toughest thing is always auditioning. I'm always confident once I get in a show, but no matter how well I prepare auditions are always nerve wracking.

Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why?
I just finished playing Marc Antony in Caesar and I think that is definitely up there on my list. Antony has some great speeches and it was a great experience working on that show.

What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
I sometimes do some warm ups for energy, and voice, but mostly I just review my lines and try to focus.

What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
Just keep doing it. No matter how many times you might fail you will always get back up stronger than you were in the first place.

What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea?
I think the moral is that love is the most important thing. Also you should be true to yourself no matter what people expect from you.

The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA

Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Seven)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with another familiar face to Makeshift Theatre Co, Victoria Townsend.

Hey Victoria, so tell the audience a bit about yourself. This isn't your first show ith Makeshift is it?
I'm from Massachusetts originally, left for a few years to go to school in Vermont (Saint Michael's College) and now live back in Boston. I have been in professional shows throughout New England and beyond since beginning school. This is my second show with Makeshift. Last year, I played a model in The Emperor's New Clothes. I liked both shows but I love playing Kansas because she is a really distinct character and can be really silly. Some of the things she says are really strange so you can have a lot of fun with them.


Tell us a bit about your character in Princess and the Pea.
As I said, I play Kansas City, leader of the band. I love the character because she is really confident and sure of herself. I would love to talk like her all the time. Dig, Jackson!


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
Once, I was in a show where my character had to lay onstage dead at the end. Now, dead people don't move...but, a fly crawled on my face and in my ear! It was so itchy and gross. It was very very hard to keep still. But I did it. Yuck!


Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why?
It is so hard to pick a favorite show because each new role is a fun and different challenge. But if I had to pick I'd have to say Rosalind in As You Like It because I love doing Shakespeare and she was a very strong, well-spoken character who was fun to play.


What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
I like to make sure that I have lots of time to stretch and warmup my body and voice. And I like to do something loud and silly to get my energy going. Sometimes, I also really like to have a green apple with the skin still on because it makes my voice feel good and helps me speak more clearly.


What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
If you are interested in theatre then jump up and start doing it. Start with plays at your school or talk to your parents about going to a camp or after school program. Anyone can be an actor or work behind the scenes but the only way you will learn is by jumping in. Don't wait to start!


What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea?
I think a major message of this play is that you should follow your heart and not just do what people expect of you. It is okay to be different even if it is silly or a little improper. And I think it also teaches parents to listen to their children's wishes rather than force their own ideas on them.

The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA

Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Six)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with another familiar face to Makeshift Theatre Co, Matthew Arnold.




Hey Matt, so tell the audience a bit about yourself. You've been in other Makeshift Shows isn't that right?
I'm from Coventry, Rhode Island, and I currently live in Medford. I've done a number of shows with Makeshift, most recently Robin Hood and The Three Musketeers.


Which was your favorite show to work on?
I really enjoyed performing in The Three Musketeers. I got to do a lot of work with swords and practice my stage combat skills.


Tell us a bit about your character in Princess and the Pea.
I play King Irving. He's loud and lordly, and is used to being in charge. It's good to be the king, after all! He kind of reminds me of Charlemagne from the musical Pippin, a character I've always liked. Like many of the royalty in the play, he sees the world a bit differently than everyone else - something which could easily be said of me as well.


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
In high school I played a blind man in a production of Frankenstein. During one performance I was supposed to give a prop to another actor onstage, and realized the prop wasn't where it belonged. I had to find it and retrieve it without actually "looking" for it, because even though I could see, my character could not.

Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why?
I would have to say my favorite was The Philadelphia Story, which I performed in my senior year in college. It's a very witty 1930s comedy, and the cast was top-notch. I'm very glad to have been a part of it.

What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
Not much, really. I just kind of step on stage and go from there. If there's a lot of complex physical movement (like combat) I stretch beforehand, but that's pretty much it. Lots of actors I've seen will do really intricate routines that involve all kinds of contortions and making noises to warm up their body and their voice, but I find that I work much better without all that. Neither way is necessarily better; I just do what works best for me.


What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
Have fun! Audition and perform as much or as little as you like. As soon as you stop enjoying something, there's very little reason to continue, and the same is true of theatre. It can be a hobby or a full-blown career; whatever is best for you.


What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea? What is it's moral/meaning so to speak?
Subversive vegetable placement is not a sure-fire way to determine someone's heritage. Oh, and people should be able to marry whoever they want. That's important too.
 
 

The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA

Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Five)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with newcomer Meghan Kenny.


Hi Meghan! You're a newcomer to the Makeshift family, why don't you tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up way down south in Mississippi/New Orleans and recently moved to East Boston. Some of my favorite shows that I've been in are: A Streetcar Named Desire, Medea, and Dracula


This is your first role with Makeshift, what has the experience been like?
Yes, this is my first time working with Makeshift. I have really enjoyed the rehearsal process and am so excited to be performing with this company. I'm so impressed with how quickly the production has come together. I've learned some new warm ups that are a ton of fun and really enjoyed getting to work with such a great cast and production team.


What role can audiences expect to see you in?
I play Princess Rosalind. I enjoy how crazy and silly Rosalind is. Its so fun to play a character that is so different from myself. The princess and I are both very good at stating our opinion and going out into the world to get what we want, but Rosalind's approach is much more whiny and rude at times. She is also obsessed with getting married which is kind of strange to me but I like that in the end she picks true love.


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor? The hardest thing I ever had to do as an actor was transform from a normal girl to a crazed vampire on stage. It was really difficult to figure out how to get the vampire fangs in and change my costume while still saying my lines and making the switch look believable.

Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why? My favorite show that I've performed in is A Streetcar Named Desire. I played Blanche Dubois. This is one of my dream roles. So, I felt very lucky and excited to be cast as Blanche. I really enjoy a good challenge and this role was certainly the biggest challenge I've ever faced on stage. I had a ton of lines and lots of movement to remember. This character went from laughing and joking to screaming and fighting in a matter of minutes. This role really taught me a lot about myself and pushed me to want to act professionally.


What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
Before a performance I like to run all of my lines in my head to make sure I remember all of entrances and exits. It also important that I take time to do a couple of energetic warm ups to really get my mind and muscles ready to work on stage.

What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
If you are interested in theatre you should go to an audition and give it a try. Don't give up because you're nervous or unsure. It's best to jump in and give it a try!

What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea?
Princess and the Pea is about not settling in life and not judging a book by it's cover. It's important to go for your dreams in life and not let anyone convince you to settle for what they think you want. Also, just because a prince is a prince and a princess is princess doesn't mean that they are all the same. You never know what a person is like until you take a minute to get to know them.
 
 

The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA

Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

Riverside Theatre Works

617-361-5269

Hyde Park, MA

Saturday October 2

11:00am & 1:00pm

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Four)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with newcomer Danika Wood.


So, Welcome to the Makeshift Family, tell our readers a bit about yourself!
I grew up in Ithaca, New York. I can remember being bitten by the acting bug when I was 6, and auditioned for Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at the Hangar Theatre. I didn't get a role, but my sister did, and I was so jealous of her! But I went on to take classes and perform at various theatres in Ithaca. I was involved with, and for a year was Artistic Director of, Orange Tree Theatre Company, which was made up of kids ages 8-18 only; we did everything ourselves, and I'm very proud of having been a part of it. I received a BFA in acting from Syracuse University, where I played Bardolph in Henry V and Jack's Mother in Into the Woods as well as other roles. When I graduated I moved to New York City, where I lived for the past several years. My most recent role there was The Nurse in Romeo and Juliet.


This is your first show with Makeshift, what has that been like for you?
Having just moved to Boston from New York, this is my first time with Makeshift and I am so glad I got to be a part of this production! It has been a professional and really fun experience! Plus, everyone is not only talented, but so nice!


What role will our audiences see you as when Pricness and the Pea opens this weekend?
I play Queen Margaret of the Northeast Kingdom. It is always fun to play the ruler of a kingdom and imagine all my subjects, and my huge castle, and collection of velvet capes, and the cast-iron footed bathtubs in every bathroom. (No? Just me?) Queen Margaret is very proper and very bossy, and while I myself do not see much of a resemblance, I imagine if you'd asked my brother and sisters when I was, say, 10 years-old, they might disagree.


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
I guess the hardest thing I had to do physically was perform something like 40 shows as a One-Armed Woman in a show called The Dybbuk. I had one arm in a sleeve strapped across my body and tied and a giant puppet in the other hand. To top it off, it was a period show and I was wearing a corset. Unless you've spent time in a corset, I couldn't explain to you the uniquely horrifying aspects. All in all, it was an extraordinarily claustrophobic experience. Luckily the show was beautiful and I was offstage a lot.


Of all the shows you've ever been in , which was your absolute favorite?
I couldn't pick! Each experience brought something different into my experience as an actor, whether it's working with a phenomenal director who inspired me, getting to sing and dance in a favorite musical, perform Shakespeare for the first time, or play a man and speak French.


How do you prepare before you step on stage?
I always warm up my body and my voice so that they're ready for anything. And then I always drink too much water, so I end up visiting the restroom a few times.


What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
There are so many classes out there right now for young people, in acting, singing, probably design and directing too, just get out there! If you're not finding what you need out there, you can always create it! I was involved with a theater company who had no one over the age of 18. Get involved in everything you can, at school, community theatre, local theatres; especially at this point every experience is valuable. Also make sure you go see a lot of theater, as much as you can. I remember seeing King Lear when I was 13, and I didn't understand one whit of it, but believe it or not I am still inspired by it today.


What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea?
It doesn't matter whether you are a Princess or a Tailor or anyone in between, what matters is who you are inside. Love, especially, doesn't know any titles or status and when you love someone, you should love her completely, no matter who she is or where she comes from.


The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA
Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

Riverside Theatre Works

617-361-5269

Hyde Park, MA

Saturday October 2

11:00am & 1:00pm

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Three)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with

a returning face familiar to Makeshift audiences, the lovely and talented Jes Corbo.


So, Jes, tell our readers a bit about yourself.
I'm Jes Corbo, and I am from Boston. A few of the shows I have been in are Midsummer Night's Dream, Cabaret, My Fair Lady, and The Importance of Being Earnest.


This isn't your first show with Makeshift, you've become something of a regular for our audiences, am I right?
This is my fourth show with Makeshift. Did any of you see Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella, or The Emperors New Clothes? I love Makeshift and the big fast funny sort of acting we do. Theatre that speaks to children in their language is something I really believe in. I didn't know how much I loved theatre until I was in high school, so I think I missed out a little. If I was bitten by the theatre bug at a younger age, maybe I would have been able to play one of the kids in Mary Poppins, or even Annie! hehe.


So, what role do you play in Princess?
I play Princess Kate. I like her because even though she is a princess she is still very down to earth and she doesn't let her royal position change her personality. I definitely see a bit of myself in Princess Kate. She loves, fights for the truth, and let's her true self show no matter who's watching.


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
Without fail, every part I have ever had, I run into an unexpected obstacle. I am happy I do, because that is how I grow as an actor. I have only had to learn choreography a few times before, so stretching that puny little muscle of mine has been one of my Princess and the Pea challenges.


Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why?
This is a tough question. I think Midsummer Night's Dream was my favorite show. I love Shakespeare and this play is just so funny and full of fantasy and the relationships between the couples are so rich. There is a lot for an actor to do when working on Shakespeare. I am reminded of Helena and her struggles when I play Princess Kate.

What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
I try to get as warmed up as possible, my voice and my body need to feel very loose so that when it's time to start, I can use those things as my tools to tell this awesome story. Also, WATER. So important. For two weeks before a show, I drink as much water as I can. That's when it's important, the water I drink back stage isn't going to really help me stay hydrated, it's all that water I drink before hand.

What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
You got to be strong and remember that it's going to be a lot of work, but if you couldn't see yourself doing anything else and being happy, do it. If you feel that way about it and you don't let anything stop you, you will have a great career in theatre. Remember though, you're gonna need a day job :).


What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea?
Follow your heart.
 
 
The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MA
Sunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

Riverside Theatre Works

617-361-5269

Hyde Park, MA

Saturday October 2

11:00am & 1:00pm



The Interviewer and the Pea (Day Two)

Well folks, a new season is upon us! A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. I took a few moments to sit down and talk with Michael Riffle.



So, Mike, tell our audience a bit about yourself.
I live in Brighton, but I was born in Cleveland OH. I spent three years in Houston TX and four in Rochester, NY. I've done many shows in the area including "Three Days of Rain" with IDS, and "Music from a Sparkling Planet" with Happy Medium.


Is this your first time with Makeshift?
No, my first show with Makeshift was this spring. I played Jason/Little John/Sir Guy of Gisborne in Robin Hood. I'm playing Prince Archibald. I enjoy the "Prince Charming" style character, because it's so easy to play around with. I'm not sure I see any of myself in the character, but I do like to pretend to be dashing and romantic.


What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
I was in a rehearsal for Killer Joe, by Tracy Letts, and I was asked to recount the worst breakup I'd ever had (which at the time was fairly recent) and then when I was thoroughly charged with my own emotion I was made to do the scene. It works really well, but it definitely doesn't feel very good.


Of all the shows you've been in, what was your favorite and why?
Killer Joe, easily, the director was crazy (in a good way) and demanded an epic amount of devotion from his actors. We were forced (often against our will) to delve deeper and deeper into the characters. I think I gave one of my best performances in that show, and I enjoyed it immensely, especially the parts I hated during the process.


What do you do before a performance to prepare to go on stage?
I usually do a series of stretches and vocal warmups before a performance, but before each time I step on stage I try to think of "the moment before". It's a pretty standard acting exercise. You think about the scene you're about to do, and then you think about what must have come before that scene, and you play that through your head just before you walk out onto the stage. If the performance starts before the audience can see or hear you then there's no chance that they're going to see you out of character.


What advice would you give to a young person in the audience who might be interested in theatre?
The number one thing is to just BE INVOLVED. Get involved in a show you're interested in, and even if you can't get a role, be involved backstage - learn the ins and outs of the theatre world. Another big tip, which I often fail to follow but is really important, be punctual and be present. Arriving early to a rehearsal gives you time to get settled so that when it's time to start you're already ready to go, and not just getting into the room.


What do you think families should take away from Princess and the Pea? What is it's moral/meaning so to speak?
I think the biggest thing in the show is the importance of love, whether it be familial ties or marriage, love, trust, and respect are invaluable. King Irving learns to respect Archie's wishes, Archie learns to trust Kate, and all the characters learn that love is the backbone of marriage whether you're rich or poor, famous or unknown.

The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre

781-646-4898

Arlington, MASunday October 17th 1:00pm

Saturday October 23 10:30am

Riverside Theatre Works

617-361-5269

Hyde Park, MA

Saturday October 2

11:00am & 1:00pm

The Interviewer and the Pea (Day One)

Well folks, a new season is upon us!  A new season of adventure and comedy. A season a new faces. And to introduce some of those new faces (as well as say hello to some returning ones) we are once again sitting down with our latest cast for a series of interviews. Today we have the pleasure of meeting a newcomer to the Makeshift Family, Tim O'Connor.

Hi there, Tim!
Oh, hello there!

So, tell our readers a bit about yourself. Where are you from, what other shows have you been in?
My name is Tim O'Connor and I come from the city Malden, Massachusetts. Over the years, I've been such shows as Romeo and Juliet, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare: Abridged, and Nineteen-Eighty Four. This is my first time working with the Makeshift Theatre Co and I am excited to say that the experience has been awesome!

So, what role do you play in Princess and the Pea?
The script for The Princess and The Pea is hilarious, the cast is bursting with comedic energy, and the director really knows how to tie it all together and make it come alive. I play the part of "Poughkeepsie" Paul Snodgrass, Lead Triangle of The Western Kingdom Swingers Orchestra. I really dig his silly three word one-liners that "overstate the obvious."

What was the hardest thing you ever had to do as an actor?
As an actor, the hardest thing I've ever had to do was write and perform in my own one-person play.

What's been your favorite show that you've ever worked on?
Of all the shows I've been in, Nineteen-Eighty Four was my favorite because it was my very first full length play and it was based on one of my favorite books.

How do you prepare for a role, before you go on stage and face the audience?
Before a performance I like to stretch, do breathing exercises, and walk around as my character for preparation to go on stage.

If you could say any one thing to a young audience member who might be interested in theatre, what would it be?
To any young person in the audience with even the smallest interest in theatre, I offer this advice: DO IT. Go out a school play, audition for local theatre companies, or even get yourself and some friends together and make your own production. Theatre might end up being your favorite thing in the world but you won't know if you don't try it out.

Any final thoughts? Anything you'd like the audience to take away from the new show?
I hope the audience at least takes away the idea that honesty is the best course of action. Hope you enjoy the show!!  


The Princess and the Pea is performing throughout October. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre
781-646-4898
Arlington, MASunday October 17th 1:00pm
Saturday October 23 10:30am

Riverside Theatre Works
617-361-5269
Hyde Park, MA
Saturday October 2
11:00am & 1:00pm

Welcome to a New Season!

Greeting Friends and Neighbors!

Well it's been a while but boy do we sure have some exciting news for you! I hope you all enjoyed your summer and are looking forward to a beautiful Autumn here in Boston. I for one plan to get some apple picking in soon!

But before we load up on tangy Cortlands and sweet Red Delicious, I'm sure you'd like to hear a bit about all the exciting things that have been happening in the last few months.

Our very own amazing Kristin Boucher has sent us a brand spanking new poster for our season opener, The Princess and the Pea, adapted by our long time friend, Noah Smith. Now this is an exciting show folks, and our friend Caitlin Stewart-Swift returns to direct. Caitlin previously directed two of my favorite shows, Hansel & Gretel as well as last season's Emperor's New Clothes.

Familiar faces: Matt Arnold (Sleeping Beauty), Michael Riffle (Robin Hood), Jesica Corbo (Alice in Wonderland), Tim  Fairley (Emperor's New Clothes) and Victoria Townsend (Emperor's New Clothes) are joined by brand new cast members Danika Wood, Meghan Kenny, Jessica Barstis, and Tim O'Connor in this all new tale of humor, romance, peas and princesses!

Performances are  October 2nd at Riverside Theatre Works in Hyde Park; and October 17th and 23rd at the Regent Theatre in Arlington. For times and Tickets please visit our web site!

But that's not all, friends! We have a whole new season lined up for you, including a brand new adventure, Treaure Island this winter! Pirates! Treaure! Peg Legs! X Marks the Spot in this thrilling tale of adventure and buckle swashing!

And don't forget! This spring, the world renound Misdirected Theatre Company returns with their thrilling sequel to Robin Hood. Ozzie, Larry, Cynthia, Jason and Margaret return to bring us Jack Neary's beautiful tale of a very Ugly Duckling.

Whew! That's a lot of new stuff, isn't it? I know what you're saying, they can't possibly have anything MORE exciting than Pirates and Ducks and a Princess with a Perpetually Persnickity Pea Problem.

Well, I'm going to let you in on a little secret. Yes there's a rumor bouncing around the Makeshift Offices and this time it has nothing to do with Nero's obsession with calling everyone "His Precious" since Lord of the Rings Online went Free-to-Play the other day.

Would you like a hint? I'm sure you would. I'm not really supposed to say anything because it's still being designed....

But... Since you've been such wonderful friends of Makeshift for so many years. I'll give you a sneek peek:

There's a BRAND NEW WEB SITE on it's way!!!

It's still being developed, but as you can see, we at Makeshift are very excited about this season. Come join us for what is sure to be a thrilling and amazing new season of adventure!

Hope to see you there!!!

Announcing our New Season AND a new Audition Notice!

Well Friends and Neighbors we Hope You're Enjoying Your Summer!

We sure are! And we wanted to take a break from all the fun in the summer sun to announce our new season!

That's right! Makeshift is back with Two Brand New Shows and the return of a fan favorite!

This Fall we're back with The Princess and The Pea, adapted by our friend, Noah Smith.

In the winter we return with Treasure Island and then, in the spring, Ozzie, Larry, Margaret, Cynthia and Jason return with Jack Neary's: The Misdirected Theatre Company Present: The Ugly Duckling.

It's shaping up to be a fantastic season and we hope to see you all there!


For now, though, Auditions!


We are seeking 3 Male and 6 Females for our upcoming production of The Princess And The Pea;

Adapted by Noah Smith and Directed by Caitlin Stewart-Swift.


Performances will be held October 17th and 23rd at the Regent Theatre in Arlington, and October 3rd at 10am and 2pm at Riverside Theatreworks in Hyde Park.

Auditions will be held on August 23rd and 24th from 7-10PM

And will consist of a cold reading from the script.

For directions and to schedule an audition slot please email a copy of your headshot and resume to vinnie@makeshifttheatre.com

Princess and the Pea

Jim - A Voice of Reason, a peasant, the tailor contracted to make the dress for the “bride to be” Princess Rosalind.

King Irving, of the Western Kingdom- A marriage obsessed royal father, who is determined to marry his son off to the princess of his choice

Princess Rosalind, of the Southern Kingdom- A marriage crazed princess who is betrothed to Prince Archie though he has not even met her.

Prince Archie, of the Western Kingdom- A genuine nice guy and prince who is determined to find the love of his life and marry her. He is not going along with the idea of marrying the princess of his father’s choosing.

Princess Kate, of the Northeast Kingdom- A princess in search of true love, who runs away from her own kingdom and a prince she refuses to marry. A free spirited, independent princess who falls in love with Prince Archie

Queen Margaret, of the Northeast Kingdom- The mother of Princess Kate, stuck in her ways like King Irving, who is chasing after her run away daughter. She is determined to have Princess Kate marry the Prince of her choosing.

The Western Kingdom Swingers Orchestra Composed of:- A humorous trio of Jazz musicians

Ann “Kansas City” Murphy: Clarinet- Leader of the Jazz band.

Sue “Cincinnati” Morton: Conductor- The straight man of sorts.

Polly “Poughkeepsie” Snodgrass: lead triangle- Master of the Synonym, a verbose cat, and clown.

For more info visit www.makeshifttheatre.com

or email vinnie@makeshifttheatre.com

Another Season, Another Summer.

Well, Makeshift Friends and Neighbors, another summer is upon us and another season is behind us. And while those of us at MTC are taking the time to relax in the sun, break out the grill, dust off our wiffle balls, and apparently boil all our water, we want to thank each and every one of you for supporting us this year.

Our fifth season began with a new stage, a lot of new faces, and ended with the return of one of our most beloved shows, Robin Hood.

We began our season away from our traditional home at the Coolidge Corner Theater, and moved to the beautiful stages of the Regent Theater in Arlington, and the Next Door Theatre in Winchester. There were many changes that awaited us this season. Nero, our trusty intern, traveled to Merry old England, Princes were trapped in towers, Emperors pranced around in their underwear, and we welcomed our good (albeit unreliable) friends at the Misdirected Theatre Company.

Our First show, Rapunzel was a musical variation on the classic fairy tale. Directed by Shaine Carney and introducing Molly Hass-Hoven, Christine Walsh and Patrick Hughes, Rapunzel brought together new and returning members of the Makeshift family. It included Laureen Evans, Kristin Boucher and Vincent Morreale, all returning from previous seasons.

As the cold of winter set in, we naturally thought it best to have me prance around in long underwear (and very little else) as the fashion savvy Emperor Pantaloon I. The Emperor's New Clothes, introduced many new faces to the Makeshift Family, including James Aitchison, Leanne O'Shea, Gavin Killea and Erin Brehm. Tim Fairley and Debra Mein returned in a production directed by Caitlin Stewart-Swift. In addition to performing for audiences in Arlington and Winchester, Makeshift also brought the theatre company off the stage and into a local West Roxbury school, where the children got to meet the actors and ask them questions.

And finally, we rounded out our season with the return of one of our most beloved tales, Jack Neary's Misdirected Theatre Company adaptation of Robin Hood. Those who have been a part of Makeshift since the beginning will recognize this as the first show we ever performed, back when we were part of Tribe Boston. This breathless and action packed comedy is more than just a simple fairy tale, and more than just another show for us. Robin Hood set the standard for the high energy and frantic family entertainment that has become uniquely Makeshift.

Though this exciting season has drawn to a close, Makeshift is only just getting started. We will return in the fall with, new faces, familiar faces and two brand new productions, Treasure Island and The Princess and the Pea. And next Spring, the saga of the Misdirected Theatre Company will continue with The Ugly Duckling.

From all of us at Makeshift Theatre Co, to all of you who helped make us a regular part of your Saturday mornings, Thank you. May you and your families have a wonderful, safe and fun summer! And we'll see you in the fall!

Conversations with Some Merry Men (Day Two)

As many of you know, this year has marked our fifth season here at Makeshift Theatre Co. And to celebrate we've been taking time to sit down with the cast and crew of some of our most recent family shows. This Month sees the return of the show that started it all: Robin Hood. And as part of the celebration of this wonderful show, we are once again chatting with the cast and crew.

Today I'm sitting down with Matthew Arnold. A graduate of Emerson College's, Matthew is a familiar face to Makeshift Audiences, having appeared as the Prince in Sleeping Beauty and, most recently, D'artagnan in the 3 Musketeers.

So, within the play you take on a couple of roles, primarily the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. But that's not the role audiences will first see you in. You initially appear as the frazzled stage manager, Ozzie. Tell us a bit about that particular character.
Ozzie is the stage manager; it's his job to keep everything together from behind the scenes and make sure the show runs smoothly.  He's pretty panicky when things start to go wrong, and he's always keeping an eye on everything.  I like that constant sense of urgency; it's present in everyone, but I think Ozzie feels it most.

What do you think audiences will really connect with in this adaptation?
There's a degree of interactivity that is a lot of fun; the audience is often asked to respond to what's going on onstage, and sometimes even take part firsthand!

Artistic Director, Andrew Rhodes returns to the director's chair for this outing; what was it like working with him?
I've been working with Andy for a few years now, and it's a blast.  There are a lot of directors who get all high-and-mighty and go on about the Art of Theatre; Andy is not one of these.  He's well-grounded, but has a wonderful well of energy and creativity.  It's really inspiring.

The Misdirected Theatre Company series was created by renown local author, Jack Neary. What attracted you to his style of writing?
I like the idea of the crew stepping up to put on the show.  It's a really unique take on the story, and on storytelling in general.

What are some of your favorite roles you've ever played?

I really enjoyed playing D'Artagnan in last year's production of The Three Musketeers.  It was fun to put my stage combat skills to the test.  I also played William Ashby, a wealthy blowhard, a few years ago in Emerson Stage's production of The Witch of Blackbird Pond.

What was the hardest thing you've ever had to do as an actor?

When I was in high school I played a blind man; it was a challenge, especially during one performance where a prop wasn't where it was supposed to be, and I had to find it without actually "looking" for it.

What is it about performing in theatre that you really love?

I like the level of teamwork required; everybody has their job and they do it, and in doing so they help the others to do theirs.  It's the kind of collaboration you rarely see anywhere else.  Everybody needs everybody else, so everybody does their best.

Seriously, how do you memorize all those lines?!

Honestly, it just kind of happens.  Once I've rehearsed a scene enough it becomes a natural thing; each line is an instinctive reaction to its cue.

Makeshift shows have a very high energy level. how do you keep your energy levels up?
Everyone has boundless reserves of energy, even if we don't know it.  I don't drink coffee or anything like that because I don't need to; I have all the energy I need inside me and around me, kind of like a Jedi.  Yes, that's it, I'm a theatrical Jedi!  Being onstage is one of the things that, for me, lets that energy (or should I say Force?) out.

If you had one piece of advice or encouragement to give to any child thinking of getting into theatre, what would it be?
Stay confident!  It's a lot of hard work, and it won't always work out the way you want it to.  Keep believing in yourself, no matter what happens.



The Misdirected Theatre Company Presents: Robin Hood! is performing throughout April. Visit Makeshifttheatre.com for more information!

The Regent Theatre
Arlington, MA
April 11th at 2pm

The NextDoor Theatre
Winchester, MA
Shows Spring vacation week!!
April 21st at 10am & 2pm
April 25th at 10am