As we plan to attend dear friend Gordon Hicks Clarks’ Karaoke Memorial at 7pm tonight at One North on West Saginaw, I’m also remembering yet another Theatre Stalwart.

This one has been a Community Circle Players supporter from way back to the Okemos Barn days, and an active volunteer at Riverwalk up to recent times. Jan Lockwood left the planet December 30 at the age of 84. I’m assuming it was complications from her pulmonary sarcoidosis. Thanks to Mike Siracuse for sharing with me this post by Jan’s daughter in law:

​"Almost 13 years ago at our wedding (Eric and Cindy Lockwood) Janet Jordan Lockwood told me this is the photo she wanted to be remembered by when she passed. With great sadness, that day is today (December 30).  After a slow, steady decline following her son Matt Lockwoods death in May 2023 and a more rapid decline in the last few weeks, Jan was hospitalized December 26 and passed early this morning. She was a force of nature, great mom and grandma, supportive friend and the very best mother in law. She was an avid reader, a political and theater hound and sports fan. Funny and pragmatic to the end, she was cheered that she wouldn't be alive for another Trump presidency. Matt and Jan were huge Lions fans and we are hoping that by joining forces in the beyond, this will be the year they win the Super Bowl. Rest in peace Queen."

I don’t have any info on memorial service or donation instructions, though Jan is on the Estes Leadley site https://estesleadley.com/obituaries/janet-j-lockwood/ which promises a full obituary to come — but I will be donating to Riverwalk, which seems appropriate considering her history. See Matt Ottinger’s wonderful database http://lansingtheatre.org/Lansing/JanLockwood and know that her history goes back even further than Matt’s info —to the 70’s at least… maybe 60s?. If you send a check to Riverwalk, PO Box 12249 with “in memory of Jan Lockwood” on the memo line, Jan and her donors will be listed in programs for a year.

Big Band Saturday Night at Portland Theater
An evening of jazz and swing music with The Lansing Concert Band Big Band

Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
Portland Theater: 231 Maple Street • Portland, Michigan
All tickets general admission, $10 | A portion of proceeds will benefit the theater's ongoing building renovation projects. 
Available at the door or presale at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/portland-civic-players/big-band-saturday-night-1407175076%0Ahttps://portlandcivicplayers.com/

Join us for an evening of jazz and swing favorites in celebration of the Portland Civic Players’ 70th anniversary!  The LCB Big Band’s repertoire includes beloved tunes from the Great American Songbook, made popular by the likes of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and many more. The 20-piece big band is directed by Jim Kaspzrak; featured vocalists Kelly Sandula-Gruner and Dan Templin (Clique Vocals). 

Portland Community Theater is wheelchair accessible.
 http://lansingconcertband.org
​

Midway Theater Company will be busy in 2025:

Winter Theater Classes
Join Cole and Sarah Grace Groot for Drama and Choreography Theater Classes!
These are for all ages and all levels of experience. 
Find out more about these new Tuesday night offerings, starting January 14, here:
https://midwaytheatercompany.org/midway-academy



Auditions for our next community show, Into the Woods, are coming up!


Anyone 16 and older is welcome to audition. Check out our calendar to see all rehearsal and performance dates and times, then sign up for an audition spot! All audition materials will be emailed to you once you sign up. (Do not confuse this audition with Lebowsky auditions in Owosso. These are at Grace Bible Church on the west side.)
Into the Woods Audition Sign Up




101 Dalmatians Kids

We had a wonderful response to our first-ever kids’ show! Forty eight young actors aged 8-12 will be joining us for eight weeks of theater-training with Midway Academy that will culminate in two performances on February 22. Watch our Facebook and Instagram for updates on their progress.

Midway Theater Company
https://midwaytheatercompany.org
​

Riverwalk Theatre is preparing to open the fast-paced comedy, "Lustful Youth." This riotous farce features a small cast of skilled actors all playing multiple parts. The show opens on January 9th and runs through the 19th.

When TV statistician Walt (TJ Kelly) is contracted by his boss Tony (Lewis Elson) to create a hit soap opera, he's given conditions meant to push the show out as fast as possible and guarantee a network hit: One, the show must include broad subjects that everyone likes. Two, nothing that is written into the show may be unwritten; mistakes must be written around. With the help of his muse, Dill (Rachel Steffens), he writes the bizarre soap opera "Lustful Youth,” creating outrageous caricatures inspired by real people in his life. Soon the lines between fiction and reality blur and chaos ensues. Do people like the show? Will Walt find success? Also, why the heck are there pirates? Tune in on January 9th to find out!
“R.I.P. Shakespeare. You would have loved Lustful Youth.” - Rachel Steffens (Dill). Lustful Youth is a larger-than-life romance, with violence, and comedy. First-time director Kait Wilson has typically music directed or acted in shows in the past. She was inspired to direct Lustful Youth after joining an improv troupe in 2010 run by the show’s playwright, Mike Eserkaln, and subsequently viewing Mike’s production of the show. Wilson is thrilled that both the cast and crew are dedicated to breathing life into her uproarious vision.

“Lustful Youth is a ridiculous comedy that manages to be over-the-top and heartwarming at the same time. The actors have the characters to life in their own unique and creative ways, and the production team has been completely committed to making sure all of the theatrical elements work together to help tell this hysterical story. Riverwalk Theatre is an amazing and supportive community and I’m privileged to be able to contribute to their 36th Season!”

This cast is full of well-known Lansing performers, all incredibly talented in their own right. TJ Kelly is well-cast as the Walter, , doing everything he can to write something people will enjoy. The small size of the cast enables every supporting
performers to shine, each playing multiple characters. For instance, Lewis Elson flawlessly swaps between British and American accents to differentiate between Walter’s boss “Tony,” and Lustful Youth’s character “Jake I.” Allison Meyer shows off her wide acting range as well, playing both Tony’s timid intern, “Deb,” and “May,” the stereotypical soap opera “sexpot” character on Lustful Youth.

Friendly faces can be seen backstage as well, with Riverwalk’s favorite Matt Ottinger in charge of sound design. Costume Anna and Kristine Maier have been having fun putting together a wide variety of costumes, ranging from typical office wear to over-the-top pirate garb. 
The show includes both intimacy and violence so actors need to get comfortable trusting one another onstage. Thankfully, the physical and emotional safety of these actors is supported by Connor Kelly, fight choreographer, as well as Shannon Bowen, intimacy coordinator. These two play a large role in making sure the moments that look the most unscripted are both safe and predictable for those involved with production.

Lustful Youth won’t be a show you want to miss! With a little bit of something for everyone, the show manages to be both funny, and strangely touching. Grab those tickets now!

Show Dates:
Thursday, January 9th, 7:00 P.M.
Friday, January 10th, 8:00 P.M.
Saturday, January 11th, 8:00 P.M.
Sunday, January 12th, 2:00 P.M.
Thursday, January 16th, 7:00 P.M.
Friday, January 17th, 8:00 P.M.
Saturday, January 18th, 8:00 P.M.
Sunday, January 19th, 2:00 P.M.

Standard tickets for this performance are $15. Senior/Student/Military tickets are available for $12, as well as Children's tickets (12 and under) for $10. Tickets can be purchased both in the box office, and on our website: http://www.riverwalktheatre.com

​Time to gear up for a New Year of Theatre:


January 2025

1/5 & 6 - 7pm AUDITIONS for Mankind by Robert O’Hara - Sycamore Creek Church, 1919 S Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing - PCTC
1/9-12 & 16-19 - 7pm Thur, 8pm Fri/Sat; 2pm Sun - Lustful Youth, Director: Kait Wilson - Black Box Stage - RWT
1/19 &20 - 7pm AUDITIONS for The Importance of Being Earnest directed by Bob & Michele Purosky - RWT 
1/21-26 - 7:30pm Tue-Fri; 2pm & 7:30pm Sat; 1pm & 6:30pm Sun - Shucked - Great Hall - WTN
1/24-26 & 1/30- 2/1 - 7pm Fri/Sat; 3pm Sun - She Kills Monsters by Qui Nguyen directed by Ixion Artistic Director jeff croff - IX
1/25 & 26 – 7pm Sat, 4pm Sun – What I Did For Love (musical revue) -  RPAC
1/27 & 28 - 7pm AUDITIONS for Acts of Love - a Night of One-Acts, 3.0 Featuring original one-act plays written for audio theater by members of Audio Air Force Edgewood Community Church, 469 N. Hagadorn, East Lansing, more info: [email protected] - AAF
1/25 & 28 -  2pm Saturday & 6 pm Tuesday - AUDITIONS for Into the Woods directed by Chase Buher; more info soon at midwaytheatercompany.org - MTC
​1/31-2/9 - 7pm Fri; 3pm Sat & Sun - Little Shop of Horrors (Broadway version) - AECT


Greater Lansing Ubiquitous Theatres

** AECT - All-of-us Express Children’s Theatre -  www.cityofeastlansing.com/allofus - 517-319-6957 - [email protected]

** AAF - Audio Air Force - radio shows - www.audioairforce.com - Dave Downing - 517-881-9746  EVO - Evolve Theatrics - evolvetheatrics.com, [email protected], 517-490-4567  

* IX - Ixion - ixiontheatre.com, [email protected],  517-775-4246  

MTC - Midway Theater Company - midwaytheatercompany.org - 517-316-5272

PCTC - Peppermint Creek Theatre Co. - www.peppermintcreek.org - 517-927-3016

RWT - Community Circle Players at Riverwalk Theatre,  www.RiverwalkTheatre.com, 228 Museum Drive 
517-482-5700

WTN - Wharton Center for Performing Arts at MSU - 517-432-2000 or 1-800-Wharton or www.whartoncenter.com

* Performs at Stage One, 2200 Lake Lansing Rd., Lansing, MI 48912

** Performs at E.L. Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbot Road, East Lansing, MI 48823

Williamston Theatre is celebrating “Giving Tuesday,” —  the global day of giving that helps support charitable causes December 3 — by giving live storytelling readings at 11 am, 3pm and 7pm, no reservations, free of charge, but I’m sure there’s an opportunity to donate to the Williamston Theatre cause. https://www.williamstontheatre.org/giving-tuesday-play-thon

Riverwalk Theatre has a “Matching Fund” drive going for Giving Tuesday, where donations will be matched up to $10,000.https://www.riverwalktheatre.com I’m in on that one, because I believe in Community Circle Players at Riverwalk, having been a member since they were at the Okemos Barn back in the '70s and ’80s. Their longevity and investment in (and responsibility for) the building — and the new adventure of $upporting two new, excellent Office Goddesses, as our dear Mike retires — makes RWT a worthy investment in an institution that offers the widest variety of opportunities for local nonprofessional actors and techies.

But GLUT advocates for ALL local, live theatre. You can go to the GLUT website http://www.greaterlansingtheatre.net and find a list of deserving local theatres; most accept donations online. My appeal is for every “GLUT-ster” (theatre participant or theatre audience member) to pick at least ONE theatre and chip in this “Giving Tuesday."

​Don’t forget Riverwalk’s Holiday Cabaret variety show  - one performance only - December 14. 

Director Sabrina Dahlgren has put together some of Lansing's most talented performers for an evening of vocal performances sure to get you in the holiday spirit this season. 

Pre-show reception with Clique Vocals (charismatic crooners Kelly Sandula Gruner & Dan Templin) and refreshments for purchase, starts at 6:30 P.M. Performance starts at 7:30 P.M. - 

 In addition to the lots shared with I-5, additional parking is available on Michigan Ave. and the Lansing Center parking garage. 

Only 19 seats left by my count. Easy to buy tix online with Riverwalk’s new system. http://www.riverwalktheatre.com - and click “box office”.

​Lansing Matinee Musicale Announces the Emerging Artist Award for Musical Theatre

Contact: Laura Stebbins, President, [email protected]


Lansing Matinee Musicale (LMM) is thrilled to announce the Emerging Artists Award for Musical Theatre! The LMM is seeking the best musical theatre artists who have begun their professional journey - those who need that one break to move their careers forward. The competition is open to all musical theatre soloists worldwide between the ages of 20 and 28 by the application date. This award is made possible by the Lee C and Mildred Richardson Scholarship Fund.


All awards will be cash:


First Prize - $2,000
Second Prize - $1,500
Third Prize - $500


A special bonus will be awarded if the winner has a Michigan connection.


For complete details and to begin the application process please visit our website -
https://lansingmatineemusicale.org/national-musical-theatre-competition/
DEADLINES are as follows:
• ●  January 31, 2025 - Applications and audition videos are due
• ●  April 19, 2025 - Virtual Semi-Final Round, online
• ●  September 6, 2025 - In-Person Final Round in Lansing, MI


The $50 application fee may be paid through PayPal, or by check. After completing the application form, you will be directed to Paypal/Credit Card secure payment processing.


Please be sure to submit payment at this time. Payment MUST be submitted to complete your application process. If you are paying by check please send to LMM, c/o Adkins, 6405 Old River Trail, Lansing MI.

Starlight Dinner Theatre reopens with Sherlock Holmes musical farce this weekend. Reserve TODAY for dinner; show-only tix available at the door.

Starlight is back to their original performance venue, Waverly East Intermediate School, 3131 W. Michigan Ave. 48917 - after a 4-year break due to Covid and school construction projects. The musical farce Sherlock Holmes and the Great Royal Goose Chase! is directed by Mike Stewart with Musical Direction by Ellen Hoard. Caitlin Christenson is the choreographer and Grace Williquette Peters the show Accompanist.  

You’ll laugh and cheer and maybe even become a suspect in this merry mystery, musical farce! “UPROARIOUS! – BroadwayWorld “Non-stop laughs!” – The Daily News

The meal is catered by James Avenue Catering consisting of Michigan Cherry Chicken ~ (Herb Roasted Chicken Breast with White Wine sauce and Dried Cherries); Cheesy Potatoes AuGratin
Michigan Salad with Feta, Dried Cherries, Red Onions & Pecans, Dressings on the side including Raspberry Vinaigrette; Dinner Rolls with Whipped Butter and a Lemon Cheesecake square.

Sherlock Holmes shows run November 15-16 & 23-24  - audience deadlines:

Friday, Nov 15 dinner and show reservations must be made and paid for by credit card no later than Tuesday evening, Nov 12.
Saturday, Nov 16 dinner and show reservations must be made and paid for by credit card no later than Wednesday evening, Nov 13.

Tickets for Show Only can be purchased at the door. 

Show & Dinner $40; $37 sr/student; $13 child 12 & under
Show Only $20; $18 sr/student; $13 child 12 & under
Sunday 11/24 Dessert Matinee $26; $13 children. 
Fri/Sat dinner 6:30/show 7:30; Sunday dessert 1:30; show 2pm.

 Call 517-599-2779 for reservations OR reserve tickets online. Reservations Agent Sherin explains how:

Go to http://starlightdinnertheatre.com. The Home page (gift certificate page), hover cursor over 'About Starlight' then click on 'Reservations, Pricing, Current Season'. The reservation page appears. Scroll down to get to the online reservation form. Note, the * are required fields. Click submit. If all the required fields are entered, you will get a Thank you….