Archived News
November/December 2011 Update
The 13th Chair off and running
Before auditions occur and rehearsals begin, the triumvirate of James Glen, graphic designer, Sherri Sadler, Communications Manager and David Cooper, photographer gather forces and create the signature image for the upcoming production. It’s a tricky business creating a photo that tells the story of a play while remaining true to the playwright’s words and a director’s vision, always knowing the ultimate purpose is to create interest in the show and sell tickets. There’s a lot that goes into this process. The script is purged for ideas, brainstorming sessions with the director and designers happen, costumes are gathered and props located. Little challenges are overcome, like finding a real crystal ball for this shoot, and every detail is well thought out - notice the boutineers on all the men’s suits, for instance. If all goes well, the elements come together and the outcome is a beautiful photo.
See a time lapse video of the photoshoot by David Cooper
Accolades abound for The Crucible
The 46th season began with a tremendous production of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, directed by Jane Heyman and featuring graduate Anthony F. Ingram as Deputy Governor Danforth. Our Tuesday night talkbacks were packed and patrons went out of their way to express how much they enjoyed the show.
Here’s what one of them had to say, via Facebook –
"I was utterly blown away by last night's performance of The Crucible. Across the board, the performances were topnotch - rooted, heartfelt, and loaded with nuance. The set was absolutely stunning in its starkness, the lighting and sound exquisitely eerie, the costumes just muted enough to be perfect, and Jane Heyman's direction was nothing short of extraordinary. This was without question the finest production I have ever seen at Studio 58, not to mention the best piece of theatre I have seen in Vancouver this year. Congratulations to the cast, crew, creative team, and faculty!” - Hannah Johnson
"Under Jane Heyman’s excellent direction, this cast of 19 senior Studio 58 students (plus professional actor Anthony F. Ingram) transports Miller’s play off the page and into the present. Pam Johnson’s set – a bleached, weathered interior – and Barbara Gregusova’s homespun, rustic costumes locate the play back in 17th Century. But there is no doubt the true villain in this piece is extremism – a very present 21st century danger.
…dedication shows in this production with fine ensemble playing – a hallmark of Studio 58 – and finely crafted individual roles. This is a blockbuster of a play given blockbuster treatment by Studio 58.” - Jo Ledingham, The Vancouver Courier
The participation of graduate Anthony F. Ingram as Deputy Governor Danforth was funded by The Jane Heyman Endowment for Creative Collaboration.
We extend a huge thanks to all our patrons who attended The Crucible & look forward to seeing you in the theatre for The 13th Chair!
BPA gets green light
After nine years of negotiations we are thrilled to announce the Bachelor of Performing Arts degree has been given a green light by the Ministry of Education and will admit its first class in May of 2012. To top it off, Marcus Youssef, currently on sabbatical from his position as Associate Producer for Neworld Theatre, has been named the Program Coordinator. Four institutions are offering this collaborative degree - Capilano University, Douglas College, Langara College and Vancouver Community College. The BPA is an interdisciplinary, cohort-based capstone program that enrolls twenty-five students in a fourth year and is designed for those who already have some post-secondary education and training in at least one performing arts discipline, and who intend either to practice as professional performing artists, or arts managers, administrators or entrepreneurs, or to continue on to graduate studies in the performing arts.
Find out more info.
If you have questions, please get in touch with me. I’ll be happy to speak with you.
Marcus Youssef, Special Appointee
Bachelor of Performing Arts
marcusyoussef@capilanou.ca
604-986-1911, extension 3420.
Treasure Island opens Risky Nights season
The 12th season of Risky Nights began with an imaginative adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s beloved 19th century novel of pirates and buried gold, Treasure Island directed by Kevin Bennett. Full houses were met with water fights and canon fire in this raucous, inventive production. Kudos to all involved!
Fall Scholarships Announced
The department has the great pleasure of distributing scholarships twice a year. This term we are thrilled to announce the following scholarship recipients:
The Earl Klein Memorial Scholarship – Alex Rose and Shizuka Kai
For demonstrated generosity with peers and contribution to the ensemble; freedom of creative expression; interest in increasing knowledge of all aspects of theatre; commitment and determination; financial need. Established to honour the spirit of Earl Klein, a graduate of Studio 58.
Gertrude Anne Langridge Memorial Scholarship – Jennica Grienke and Phoebe Vlassis
For demonstrated excellent progress in the work and/or have shown a strong and consistent contribution to the ensemble. Recommended by faculty.
The Touchstone Theatre Scholarship – Kris Przednowek
For exceptional progress in his/her work. Recommended by faculty.
Beta Sigma Phi Scholarship – Katey Hoffman
Demonstrated excellence in some area of the program. Students must apply in writing and are adjudicated by Faculty.
More information on Ways to Give.
A New Bursary Established
GMC Aldrich Theatre Arts Bursary – Through the generosity of Gloria Aldrich, a new bursary for second or third term acting and production students has been established. Our thanks to Gloria Aldrich for supporting our studentsin this meaningful way.
For more information on Studio 58 scholarships, bursaries and our current campaign, please see the Ways to Give page.
Langara Bookstore to carry Studio 58 clothing
It’s been almost a decade since Studio 58 clothing was last available, so we’re thrilled that the Bookstore at Langara College will be carrying Studio 58 t-shirts and hoodies. They will be available before the end of November (the supplier has promised!). Once they are delivered, you can purchase them on campus during business hours at the Bookstore, at the Studio 58 Box Office when you attend shows or on-line.
Fall 2011 Graduates
From left to right – Alex Rose, Noah Rosenbaum, Kayla Dunbar, Ky Scott, Ryan Macdonald, Shizuka Kai (Production), Camilo Dominguez (standing, Production), Jordan Jenkins (Production), Kris Przednowek, Carol Macdonald, Adam Weidl, Jessica Oostergo (Production), Phoebe Vlassis (Production) and Adele Noronha.
Everyone at Studio 58 congratulates our newest Acting and Production Program soon-to-be graduates! These talented students have the dedication, education and instincts to be the best in their field. All have worked extremely hard to get this far, and we can't wait to see where they'll go from here. Break a leg!
Studio 58 Wants You!
Artistic Director Kathryn Shaw garners GVPTA Career Achievement Award
Kathryn Shaw, Artistic Director of Studio 58, the professional theatre training program at Langara College, is the 2010 recipient of the Greater Vancouver Professional Theatre Alliance (GVPTA) Career Achievement Award given out at the Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards last evening.
Studio 58’s Kathryn Shaw wins Teaching Award
Kathryn Shaw, Artistic Director of Studio 58 at Langara College, is the recipient of the 2009-2010 Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) Bronze Teaching Excellence Award.
While this prestigious recognition took Shaw by surprise, it was unanimous among students and colleagues that it was well-deserved. Shaw’s tenacious commitment to world-class training and her gift for training student actors to become artistically-and technically-seasoned professionals has earned her a prominent reputation in the theatre community. Learn more.
Studio 58 founder Antony Holland turns 90
Studio 58 founder Antony Holland, and 2009 Grad Joel Grinke, are producing and performing in Tuesdays with Morrie at Presentation House in North Vancouver March 2 - 20. The last night of the run the audience is invited to join in a celebration of Antony’s 90th birthday! It would be wonderful for Antony to be surprised by Studio 58 students and grads during the run, and certainly at this event! If you can’t make the show, please feel warmly invited to come to the birthday celebration afterward.
Support the High Steppin’ Walk-a-thon
April Fool’s Day at Langara College will see a raucous celebration of life and music as participants in the First Annual High Steppin’ Walk-a-thon parade down 49th Avenue in a marathon of crazy high heels, cleats, and clogs. Adorned with feathers, glitter and glam, Langara students, faculty, colleagues, and friends will vamp to the funky beat all in support of the Lloyd Nicholson Memorial Endowed Scholarship.
Sponsored by the Office of College Advancement, this explosive event will feature music by local DJ talent r i c c o, with awards granted to the most outrageous participants by a distinguished panel of judges from the Vancouver theatre community.
“Lloyd’s contributions to the local and national theatre community have inspired friends and colleagues to get steppin’ to raise money for the Lloyd Nicholson Memorial Scholarship. The High Steppin’ Walk-a-thon is a fitting tribute to a man who loved music and a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for a Studio 58 scholarship. With all donations matched by Langara College, we encourage everyone to slip on their flashiest shoes and race to the start line to participant or donate!.” Sandy Biggerstaff, Manager of College Advancement.
All are welcome to come and join in the fun and celebration. Monetary donations are matched by Langara College. To make a donation through a direct pledge or a donated item to be used as a prize in the event, please contact the College Advancement Office at 604.323.5673.
Falling Up Stairs on stage
April 6 - 11
We are thrilled to have Chris McGregor directing the 4th term students on the next installment of the Risky Nights series. After acting for many years Chris decided to go back to school to acquire his MFA in Directing from UBC. His lovely puppet show Little Old Man continues to tour throughout the province. Chris will be ably assisted by graduate Emma Slipp. They will incorporate clowning techniques from Mump & Smoot and Gina Bastone, as well as masks by Frank Rader. This is always a very popular event. Call Studio 58 @ 604.323.5227 to book your seat. The show is FREE with donations gladly accepted.
Spring scholarship recipients announced
The department has the great pleasure of distributing scholarships twice a year. This term we are happy to announce the following scholarship recipients:
The Antony Holland Scholarship
Jason Clift
Awarded to a senior student who demonstrates outstanding dedication and ability in the program.
The David Pritchard Memorial Scholarship
Outstanding Achievement in stage management
Krysia LeskardOutstanding achievement in all aspects of the program
Hannah Johnson and Katie SwinwoodThe Jennifer Wade Family Endowment Award
Joy Castro
Awarded to a Theatre Arts student who portrays universal values of kindness and caring to others in the Theatre Arts program. Acting and Production students in their final year of the program elect the recipient of the award.
The Jean Margaret Monica Ball Scholarship
Michelle Johnson
Demonstrated dedication to the program. Preference will be given to a student who demonstrates a strong ability in comedy.
Auditions Announced
Studio 58 has announced the audition tour dates for this spring and this year we’re excited to add Winnipeg! Here’s all the information:
Click here to apply
Click here to find out more about the audition
The Grad Class of Spring 2010
From left to right – Kirsty Provan, Jason Clift, Katie Swinwood, Lisa Goebel, Matthew MacDonald-Bain, Hannah Johnson, Benjamin Elliott, Tamera Lay, Byron Noble, Michelle Johnson, Joy Castro, Sean Hewlett.
Photo by David Cooper
Grad Update
Congratulations to graduate Colin Mochrie, the recipient of ACTRA's Award of Excellence for 2010. Read more about Colin here
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Congratulations to graduates Josh Epstein & Kyle Rideout for winning the National Screen Institute's Drama Prize and on their new film company Motion 58 Entertainment.
Find out more:
www.nsi-canada.ca
www.joshepsteinonline.com
Memorial for Lloyd Nicholson
The Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company, Royal City Musical Theatre and Studio 58 will lead the Vancouver arts community in a memorial and celebration of the life of Lloyd Nicholson on Monday, October 26 at the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre (Hamilton & Dunsmuir) beginning at 7pm.
Lloyd Nicholson passed away unexpectedly on October 14 in Ottawa. He was working on the remount of the Playhouse’s production of The Drowsy Chaperone at the National Arts Centre.
In addition to his many productions with the Playhouse, Mr. Nicholson was Artistic Director of Royal City Musical Theatre and was on the faculty of Studio 58, where he served as musical director for many productions.
For more information, please see the press release.
We’re Going Electronic
If you receive the Studio 58 newsletter by mail, but would prefer to have it emailed to you, please let us know by sending an email to studio58@langara.bc.ca, SUBJECT = NEWSLETTER. In the body of your email tell us your first and last name. Also remember to add our address to your list, so the next newsletter doesn’t end up in your junk file!
New Room
We are ecstatic to have a new room for our movement classes in the new Student Union Building on campus. Currently referred to as Room 32, the space will also be used for the public performances of our Risky Nights series. A big thanks to our Facilities and Purchasing Department for all their hard work to help make this happen!
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Movement instructor Brad Gibson works with First Term Acting Students.
Grads in the spotlight
- Grad Anthony Johnston’s solo show, Art’s Heart was a pick of the fringe at this year’s New York Fringe Festival
- The TV comedy Less Than Kind (written by grads Chris Sheasgreen and Marvin Kaye, among others) has been nominated for 9 Gemini Awards!!
New Arrivals
Several grads welcomed babies into the world this summer. Congrats to:
Amanda Hogg (Mathias James on August 31)
Pippa Platt (Madison Mary Young on July 31)
Sophia and James Maher (Andrew Connor Earle Maher on August 26)
Lisa Nicole Brown (Phillippe) (Carrington Brown on June 7)
Nuptials Abound
- Craig Hall married Anna Cummer
- Marcella Hyde married Rowan Helmer
- Nina Prelog married Trevor Hinton
- Evangela Dueck married Raphael Kepinski
CSI Lighting Campaign
It’s a crime – our lights are past their prime! Thanks to those who have already helped us solve the crime with your donations to CSI – Chronically Spotty Inventory Fundraising Campaign. We are $5,000 closer to our $14,000 goal. To continue to give students a state-of-the-art instructional experience, Studio 58 needs an infusion of new lighting instruments. To find out how to help out, please click on ‘Ways to Give’.
Welcome to First Term!
We extend a warm welcome to our new students in their first term of training.
- Stephen Beaver Battleford, SK
- Sara Brown Vancouver, BC
- Leslie Dos Remedios Toronto, ON
- Jennica Grienke Winnipeg, MB
- Katelyn Hoffman Vernon, BC
- Andrea Houssin Winnipeg, MB
- Mitch Janzen Abbotsford, BC
- Shizuka Kai Vancouver, BC
- Kazz Leskard Calgary, AB
- Scott Livingstone Kelowna, BC
- Simon MacIntyre Toronto, ON
- Sean McQuillan Edmonton, AB
- Stephanie Moroz Winnipeg, MB
- Agnes Tong Toronto, ON
- Nick Rinke Surrey, BC
- Lindsay Winch North Vancouver, BC
Arts Cuts
The provincial government is cutting over 80% of arts funding. And arts funding only consists of 1/20th of 1% of the provincial government's budget. This is a devastating cut to a sector of the economy that creates 80,000 jobs. Those jobs are now at risk, if they haven't already been lost.
If you consider arts and culture important, please write to your MLA and express your opposition to these cuts. You can find a list of all of BC's MLAs and their emails addresses here. Please cc your emails to Gordon Campbell, Kevin Kreuger (the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts), and to Rich Coleman (the Minister of Housing and Social Development). You can even use the sample letters found here.
For more information of the arts cuts read this article, or print out this fact sheet.
Thank you!
Jocasta on the road
The senior students of Studio 58 had a phenomenal opportunity last spring when they went on the road. Our production of Jocasta toured to Toronto as part of the City of Wine festival produced by Nightswimming Theatre. The company had a great time touring TO, bonding with other theatre students and even checking out a baseball game. A huge thanks to all the Studio 58 patrons who contributed to the students' expenses by donating throughout last season. The grand total collected was over $10,000!
Melissa in Berlin
As part of the Studio 58 curriculum, senior acting and production students are often put on outside placements working in various capacities in professional productions throughout the city. Last February Melissa Dionisio was placed in the cast of Nanay, A Testimonial Play which premiered in the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival. After a fabulously successful run Melissa was informed the show would tour to Berlin, and she was going with it! Here are a few of her pictures from that tour…
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| Hazel Venzon, Lissa Neptuno, and Melissa Dionoso (from left) give voice to the women who immigrate as live-in caregivers. Alex Waterhouse-Hayward photo. |
Studio 58 is on Facebook!
Become a fan of the Studio 58 Facebook Page & get the inside scoop!
BYE BYE BIRDIE shines
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We were packed from the first preview to closing night for the run of Bye Bye Birdie. Another hit musical at Studio 58! Many thanks to all of our loyal patrons who came to see the show and kudos to 3rd term acting student Dustin Freeland who stood in for Jason Clift as Conrad Birdie when Jason contracted a stubborn case of laryngitis. On 8 hours notice Dustin came in and performed the role and he was great! Only in live theatre can an audience experience such an amazing situation – what a thrill for everyone!
 Albert and Rosie |
“Hudgins’ portrayal of Bye Bye Birdie clearly and craftily demonstrates the lengths to which people, including both adolescents and grown-ups, will go to fulfill their innermost desires and dreams. Fame, love and self-determination drive the characters, and the audience, bopping in their seats, gladly goes along for the ride.”
- Megan Fletcher, 2nd year screenwriting class, Langara College
Thanks to all our incredible patrons who made donations to the City of Wine project during the run of Bye Bye Birdie. You helped us raise more than $4,000.00!
Tuesdays with Morrie a winner
There wasn’t a dry eye in the house on February 9th when Tuesdays with Morrie was performed by Antony Holland and Joel Grinke. It was a lovely, touching portrayal of an aging professor and his once star pupil. Our sincerest thanks go out to Antony and Joel for presenting this piece. More than $1,000.00 was raised for the Antony Holland Scholarship and the Jane Heyman Fund for Creative Collaborative Endowment Fund.
Belated welcome to first term students
We extend a warm welcome to our new students in their first term of training:
| Katherine Addington | Vancouver, BC |
| Genevieve Ewert (Production) | Vernon, BC |
| Alison Gaffney | Calgary, AB |
| Michael Gunion | Richmond, BC |
| Bron Johnson | Vernon, BC |
| Julia Johnson | Toronto, ON |
| Krysia Leskard (Production) | Kelowna, BC |
| Angela Liu | Burnaby, BC |
| Ryan McDonald | Winnipeg, MB |
| Alex Rose | Vernon, BC |
| Ky Scott | Richmond, BC |
| Shawn Sorensen (Production) | Coquitlam, BC |
| Alannah Turner | Vernon, BC |
| Jordan Watkins | Vancouver, BC |
| Adam Weidl | Edmonton, AB |
| Silvi Wool (Production) | Vancouver, BC |
Grad Class Spring 2009
They say first impressions are lasting ones. With that spirit each term the graduating class (with the help of David Cooper) conceptualize and create a one-of-a-kind photograph. This shot is then sent across the country to theatre companies and agents. They have a lot of fun (as you can see) and the feedback is always great!
Clockwise from lower left – Rachel Aberle, Rhys Finnick, Joel Grinke, Alisha Davidson, Marlene Ginader, Genevieve Fleming & Danny Coleman.
Spring Scholarship Winners Announced
Every spring the Theatre Arts Department has the pleasure of awarding scholarships to Studio 58 students. We extend our sincerest congratulations to all the recipients this term.
The Jennifer Wade Family Endowment Fund – Awarded to a Theatre Arts student who portrays universal values of kindness and caring in others in the Theatre Arts Program. Acting and Production students in their final year of training select the recipient of the award.
- Emily Rowed
The Antony Holland Scholarship – Awarded to a senior student(s) who demonstrates outstanding ability and dedication in the program.
- Melissa Dionisio & Rachel Aberle
The Jean Margaret Monica Ball Scholarship – Awarded to a student demonstrating dedication to the program, with a preference given to a student who demonstrates a strong ability in comedy.
- Andrea Yu
David Pritchard Memorial Scholarship – Offers 2 awards for outstanding performance in all aspects of the program.
- Jenna Reed & Sean Oliver
Sydney J. Risk Award – Awarded to a senior student in recognition of his/her demonstrated excellence and outstanding potential as an actor and for his/her continued commitment to a career in the professional theatre.
- Joel Grinke
Sydney J. Risk’s life was devoted to theatre and encouraging professionalism. After his death, in 1985, a group of friends, colleagues and relatives formed the Sydney J. Risk Foundation for the purpose of giving monetary awards for excellence in acting, directing, and playwriting to working professionals and students in Alberta and British Columbia. Recipients are chosen by experts from recognized theatres and/or institutions in those provinces.
Should you wish further information or to donate to the Foundation, please contact Donald H. Risk, Swinton and Company, 840 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2M1. Tax receipts will be issued.
Our heartfelt thanks to all of our friends who support our students by donating to scholarship and bursary funds!
2009 AUDITION DATES ANNOUNCED
Vancouver - April 23 - May 5, 2009
Edmonton - April 27, 2009
toronto - April 28, 2009
Ottawa - April 29, 2009
Tuesdays with Morrie Fundraiser
Antony HollandJoin Studio 58 for a very special evening in the theatre on Monday, February 9 @ 7pm. Hot on the heels of his spellbinding portrayal of Shylock in Merchant of Venice, Antony Holland returns to present Tuesdays with Morrie, by Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom.
A constant on The New York Times Bestseller List for more than ten years with more than eight million copies sold and an Emmy-winning television film presented by Oprah Winfrey, Tuesdays with Morrie is the autobiographical story of Mitch Albom, an accomplished journalist driven solely by his career, and Morrie Schwartz, his former college professor.
Sixteen years after graduation, Mitch happens to catch Morrie's appearance on a television news program and learns that his old professor is battling Lou Gehrig's Disease. Mitch is reunited with Morrie and what starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life.
All the proceeds from this production of Tuesdays with Morrie will be donated to the Antony Holland Scholarship and the Jane Heyman Endowment Fund for Creative Collaborative. For tickets contact Tickets Tonight @ 604.684.2787 or www.ticketstonight.ca Tickets are $20.00.
Studio 58 Information Night
Studio 58 will host an Information Night on Monday, February 16th beginning at 6:30 pm in Studio 58. This informal evening will feature a video presentation about our professional theatre training program as well as an opportunity to ask questions of current students and faculty. We welcome anyone who is interested in applying to the Studio 58 acting or production programs. No reservations are necessary.
Solo Shows
A Solo Show is a graduation requirement of the Studio 58 acting program and an end-of-term tradition. They are self-written, self-directed and self-performed solo works created under the tutelage of David Bloom and Alison Kelly (who jumped in to help this term while David was on tour with Frost/Nixon). Congratulations to these Fall 2008 students who recently presented their shows.
From left to right – Annabel Kershaw, Pam Johnson, Gabrielle Jones, Antony Holland, Garry Chalk, Brenda Robins, Stephen Aberle
Photo by Sherri Sadler
See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil
We are extremely fortunate at Studio 58 to have a strong relationship with the professional theatre community in Vancouver. In the fall term of each year representatives from Bard on the Beach come by to conduct auditions with our senior students. This past term (from left to right) Dave Mackay, Christopher Gaze and Dean Paul Gibson made up the panel of adjudicators.
The Merchant of Venice
Photo by Sherri Sadler |
Photo by David Cooper |
Photo by David Cooper |
Photo by David Cooper |
We were thrilled to have the founding father of Studio 58, Antony Holland here to play Shylock in The Merchant of Venice. Not only did he bring his ‘no bells and whistles’ brand of staging Shakespeare with him, he also made scrumptious scones to share with the audience each day.
Here’s what one critic had to say about the style:
“Free-fall Shakespeare means there are almost no props, the costumes are simple and other technical aspects of theatre are minimized so the audience can concentrate on the actors, and the actors can commit themselves to their roles. It’s a refreshing idea that makes this classical piece easier to understand.” - Chris Richards, The Langara Voice
The show was warmly received by audiences and the students had a phenomenal opportunity to work with Antony, who at 88 years young, is the oldest actor in North America playing lead roles on the stage. Amazing!
“The production was fun, solid, and entertaining as anything I have seen on stage.” - Shane Birley, Plank Magazine
“What does Holland teach us with this minimalist approach? That sometimes the bells and whistles just get in the way.” - Jo Ledingham, The Vancouver Courier
Thanks to all our incredible patrons who made donations to the City of Wine project during the run of Merchant. You helped us raise more than $2,000.00! See ‘City of Wine’ news section for more details.
Daniel MacIvor pays a visit
Periodically throughout the term we host guest speakers. When fifth term acting student Rhys Finnick found out Daniel MacIvor was in town for the Making a Scene Theatre Conference he decided to email him to see if he would pay us a visit. Rhys is a big fan of MacIvor’s work and was ecstatic when he accepted. It was a real thrill for everyone! Thanks so much to Rhys for making it happen & sincerest thanks to Mr. MacIvor for dropping by! www.danielmacivor.com
THE CITY OF WINE PROJECT
Studio 58 is thrilled to be chosen as one of the seven theatre schools from across Canada to participate in the City of Wine project. This cycle of seven plays about the ancient city of Thebes is written by Kingston playwright Ned Dickens. The plays have been developed by Toronto’s Nightswimming Theatre in conjunction with 150 students and educators at theatre training institutions across Canada.
As part of this initiative Studio 58 will produce JOCASTA in March and will take our show to City of Wine Festival in Toronto, spring 2009. But we need help to realize this dream for our students. We have raised the funds to provide airfare and billeted accommodation for the cast. We now need to raise funds to provide each student with a stipend for food and transportation while in Toronto.
Help our talented students realize their dream of heading to Toronto by making a donation when you come to see Bye Bye Birdie.
To find out more go to http://cityofwine.wordpress.com
Pangaea Arts Awarded International Theatre Prize
Local intercultural theatre company Pangaea Arts has been presented with a prestigious international award by the International Theatre Institute (a sub-organization of UNESCO). The Uchimura Naoya Prize is a cash prize presented yearly to an artist or group from nominees submitted from around the world, and is intended to promote the dissemination of Japanese theatre and culture around the world. Pangaea Arts is the recipient in recognition of their 2006 Jessie Award-nominated production of The Gull: The Steveston Noh Project, about the experience of Japanese Canadian fishermen returning to Steveston after the internment years. Artistic Director Heidi Specht (and Studio 58 graduate & instructor) recently traveled to the presentation ceremony at the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo to accept the award.
This esteemed award, administrated by the International Theatre Institute in collaboration with its Japanese Centre, was established in 1992 in homage to renowned Japanese playwright Naoya Uchimura. The prize is endowed by the Uchimura family, and recognizes and encourages work from around the world that bears a relationship to Japanese theatre. In the 15 year history of the Uchimura Awards, this marks the first time that a Canadian theatre company is the recipient.
The Executive Council of the International Theatre Institute announces that “The Gull is considered a masterpiece, and was unanimously selected winner of the 15th Uchimura Naoya Prize and commended for both its high artistic quality with successful unification of the form of expression and the context, and for its achievement in promoting Noh through international collaboration.”
THE ASH GIRL & HEPTADEMIC
The opening productions of the year both enjoyed critical and box office success. The Ash Girl, a retelling of the Cinderella myth by British playwright Timberlake Wertenbaker, was well attended and received positive reviews.
Here’s what a few of the critics had to say:
“There’s an awful lot of talent on stage and behind the scenes here.”
Jerry Wasserman, vancouverplays.com
“…a solid production – one that forecasts an intriguing season for Studio 58.”
Rob Peters, The WestEnder
“…splendid work by the director, the cast and the design team.”
Jo Ledingham, The Vancouver Courier
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Heptademic was the first Risky Nights offering of the season. This collaborative creation was directed by Studio 58 graduate Rachel Peake and featured fourth term acting students Aaron Adams, Raes Calvert, Melissa Dionisio, Gui Fontanezzi, Sean Oliver, Emily Rowed and Andrea Yu. Audiences were quarantined each night with these 7 and with a minimal set, creative lighting and great commitment, the students created a world where reality and fantasy blurred – at least for an hour! Heptademic was a big hit and we thank everyone who came out to see it! Kendra Fanconi will direct the next Risky Nights show March 30 to April 6, 2009.
FALL 08 GRADS
Still feeling a little lost and shipwrecked from their Studio 58 journey, we present our Fall 2008 graduating class.
Clockwise from foreground left: Susan Coodin (Acting), Jeremy Johnston (Production), Luc Roderique (Acting), Jarrett Knowles (Acting), Lindsey Angell (Acting), Corwin Ferguson (Acting), Nina Prelog (Production), Evelyn Chew (Acting), Namrita Hayer (Acting), Ella Simon (Acting), Susan Miyagishima (Production), and Jennifer Stewart (Production).
Studio 58 named in Straight’s ‘Best of’ Issue
Studio 58 is becoming well-known for producing fantastic musicals for a reasonable ticket price and in the Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver Issue last month we were sited as the ‘Best Place to Catch Great Big Shows Cheap’. To get in on a good thing, plan to attend our next musical extravaganza – Bye Bye Birdie! Tickets are now on sale
BYE BYE BIRDIE
A Musical Fable of Broadway
JANUARY 29 - FEBRUARY 22, 2009
Book by Michael Stewart
Music by Charles Strouse
Lyrics by Lee Adams
Directed by David Hudgins
Musical Direction by Lloyd Nicholson
Choreography by Shelley Stewart Hunt
Costume Design by Marina Szijarto
Set Design Pam Johnson
Lighting Design by Darren Boquist
Fan mania!! What are the teeny boppers of Allentown, Pennsylvania to do, now that their American idol, rock ‘n roller Conrad Birdie has been inducted into the Army? The directing team that brought Guys and Dolls to Studio 58 is back with a hit musical. One Last Kiss, Put on a Happy Face, Kids, and Spanish Rose are just a few of the musical theatre numbers from this 1950’s nostalgic romp. Bye Bye Birdie’s original cast starred Dick Van Dyke and Chita Rivera. This is the tops in imagination and good old fashion fun.
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED
The Earl Klein Memorial Scholarship is given to students who demonstrate generosity with peers and contribution to the ensemble, freedom of creative expression, interest in increasing knowledge in all aspects of theatre and commitment and determination.
– Susan Coodin, Luc Roderique and Ella Simon
The Gertrude Langridge Theatre Arts Scholarship is given to students who show a strong and consistent contribution to the ensemble.
- Susan Miyagishima, Jennifer Stewart
The Touchstone Theatre Scholarship is given to a student who demonstrates exceptional progress in his/her work.
- Evelyn Chew
The Beta Sigma Phi Scholarship is given to a student who demonstrates excellence in some area of the Theatre Arts Program.
- Jenna Reed
More News
• Maria Oldeen, a recent grad from Spring 2008, has the lead role in the independent feature film Lost & Found which begins filming in November.
Produced by Marque One Films with screenplay by Marilee & Byron Lamarque and produced by Alyson Drysdale, coordinator for the Film Arts Department at Langara College.
• Less Than Kind is the first series written and co-executive produced by Marvin Kaye (Grad 1994) and Chris Sheasgreen who created the series based on Kaye’s one-act play, They Have Mayonnaise in Montreal, originally produced by Studio 58 as part of Fourplay at 58 in March of 1995. The series show runner is Mark McKinney (Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Slings and Arrows, Kids in the Hall). Less Than Kind is executive produced by Peter Williamson and Ira Levy for Breakthrough Films & Television and Phyllis Laing for Buffalo Gal Pictures. Congratulations! More info
• Studio 58 graduate Michael Eisner (class of 2007) is nominated in the “Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Program or Mini-Series” for his role in The Englishman’s Boy, the CBC produced TV adaptation of Guy Vanderhaeghe’s Governor General’s award winning novel. Everyone at Studio 58 is thrilled for Michael & will be cheering him on when the Gemini’s are broadcast on Friday, November 28th! For more info http://www.geminiawards.ca
• Jamie Nesbitt (class of 2006) received a 2008 Mayor’s Arts Award for emerging artist in the performing arts category. Congrats Jamie! For more info go to www.mayorsartsaward.ca
• Several Studio 58 graduates garnered 2008 Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards this year. For a full list of winners go to www.jessies.ca
• Mara Gottler, Studio 58 production instructor and award-winning costume designer is currently working with Robert LePage’s company Ex Machina on The Nightingale/Fox, a production slated to premiere in 2009. For more information go to the Ex Machina website & click on ‘Work In Progress’. Congratulations Mara!
• Studio 58’s playwriting instructor Aaron Bushkowsky has several irons in the fire. His play My Chernobyl will be published by Playwrights Canada Press, his novel Curtains for Roy (working title) will be published by Cormorant Books and he will be featured on the cover of CanPlay in October.
• Our very own Wendy Gorling has been away for many months at the Stratford Festival working on movement for the productions of The Trojan Women & Moby Dick. Welcome back Wendy! www.stratfordfestival.ca
Welcome to New Students
Joel Ballard - Port Coquitlam, BC
Matthew Beairsto - Edmonton, AB
Elyse Broczkowski - St. Catharines, ON
Ryan Chaput - Vancouver, BC
Kayla Dunbar - Surrey, BC
Stephanie Elgersma - Cambridge, ON
Amy Hall-Cummings - Toronto, ON
Goldie Hoffman - Montreal, PQ
Caitlin McCarthy - Toronto, ON
Adele Noronha - Richmond, BC
Kris Przednowek - Fort St. John, BC
Katherine Ramdeen - Edmonton, AB
Carlos Rodriguez - Vancouver, BC
Noah Rosenbaum - Vancouver, BC
Michael Sutherland - Guelph, ON
Alvin Tran - Vancouver, BC
TOWNSVILLE LOCATED VIA MAGNETIC NORTH
We’re very proud of Townsville, this year’s Risky Nights project involving our 4th term students, and a co-production with The Chop Theatre and Studio 58. The play ran at Studio 58 in April, and was then reworked by playwright Anita Rochon and director Emelia Symington Fedy this spring, to premiere in the Magnetic North Theatre Festival in June 2008 in Vancouver.
Kudos to the out-of-term students who found a way to juggle their schedules to continue the dramaturgical process that led up to this exciting, high-profile experience at Canada's national theatre festival.
The following is an excerpt from Peter Birnie’s review published in the Vancouver Sun on Wednesday, June 11.
"Dance and theatre take two to tango
From the giddy heights of student creation to the gloomy depths of a heartfelt tribute to the Titanic, movement-based theatre gets an invigorating workout at the Magnetic North Theatre Festival. One show is wholly local while the other sailed in from Toronto, and together they prove the worth of dancing with a good script.
First to Townsville, an odd little place that's the creation of choreographer Chick Snipper and director Emelia Symington Fedy. They've taken a group of fresh-faced students from Studio 58 and worked so closely with them that this surreal comedy is infused with a keen understanding of modern youth.
Townsville is vacant, and that's the point. From the foul-mouthed mayor who thinks he's a babe-magnet to tennis-playing frat buddies with some nasty edges to their rackets, Townsville's citizens are too dumb to be dealing with democracy. A nicely nasty edge to the script was clearly supplied by the students, whose body language and verbal attacks on English are all drawn from our self-centred and often soulless iPod generation.
William Golding's Lord of the Flies comes to mind, as people with none of the skills needed to survive in a real world struggle to assemble their cliche-ridden thoughts into a coherent plan of adult action. The ceiling is strung with a grid of hanging ribbons, easily gathered in various patterns, and it's when they most resemble the streamers of a maypole that Townsville takes on an especially sad air.
We're witnessing a generation adrift. Unable to create anything original, it cobbles together barely remembered patterns from the past and the horrible sort of phony affirmation found in pop-culture popularity contests. Kudos to the "kids" who put this hour-long piece together -- with their witty understanding of youth's discomforting place in a very confused world, the people of Townsville show a seasoned maturity."
For more information about the creators of Townsville, please see www.thechoptheatre.com
SPRING 2008 GRADS AT THE FINISH LINE
David
Cooper took this photograph of the 6th term as they race out of their final
term, breaking free the bonds of...
oh... never mind... you get the picture. Left to right here is Tamera
Broczkowski, Maria Oldeen, Ryan MacDonald,
Devin Estes, Almeera Jiwa, and Emilie Leclerc.
UPCOMING: THE CITY OF WINE PROJECT
Standing (L/R): Aarion Adams, Sean Oliver, Alisha Davidson, Sean Hewlett, Melissa Dionisio, Danny Coleman, Genevieve Fleming, Andrea Yu, Rhys Finnick, Rachel Aberle, Joel Grinke, Alecia Braun. Sitting (L/R): Raes Calvert, Marlene Ginader, Gui Fontanezzi, Emily Rowed, Jenna Reed.
City of Wine is a seven-play cycle by Kingston playwright Ned Dickens that Toronto's Nightswimming is developing in a special partnership with more than 150 students and educators at theatre training institutions across Canada.
This national project offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to participate directly in the development and production of a new play in partnership with leading theatre artists and their fellow students across the country.
Our senior students are lucky to be among those chosen to participate in this national forum.
Craig Hall, Artistic Director of Vancouver's Rumble Theatre (and a Studio 58 graduate), will be directing the production that will be produced next season at Studio 58, as well as in the City of Wine Festival at Theatre Passe Muraille in Toronto in Spring 2009.
Most recently, Nightswimming Artistic Director Brian Quirt, Producer Naomi Campbell, and Playwright Ned Dickens led a two day workshop at Studio 58. Our students were thrilled to have the opportunity to workshop a brand new play with a prominent playwright present and with the resources of such a great team.
Check out the fabulous website on the project at Nightswimming where you can download and read any of the plays, or even write or review comments about the plays on their City of Wine blog.