New Stage Theatre
2011-2012 46th Season
On The Mainstage
Driving Miss Daisy Southern Play
September 13-25, 2011
By Alfred Uhry
A timeless American play, which inspired the beloved Academy Award-winning film, Driving Miss Daisy tells the affecting story of the decades-long relationship between a stubborn Southern matriarch and her compassionate chauffeur. Their iconic tale of pride, changing times and the transformative power of friendship has warmed the hearts of millions.
Dracula Thriller
Written by Steven Dietz
Based on the novel by Bram Stoker
October 25-November 6, 2011
"I want your fear. Your fear makes your heart pound, it renders your veins rich and full." Suspense and seduction abound in this fresh adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel. As Count Dracula begins to exert his will upon the residents of London, they try to piece together the clues of his appearances, in a valiant attempt to save themselves from a hideous fate. Rich with both humor and horror, this play paints a wickedly theatrical and entertaining picture of Stoker's famous vampire. Dracula promises suspense, screams, and of course, "there will be blood."
Annie Holiday Musical
by Charles Strouse, Martin Charnin, and Thomas Meehan.
December 2-December 18, 2011
An orphan, Annie, and her dog Sandy are placed in the lap of luxury for a week as a part of a publicity campaign for Oliver Warbucks. However, Annie's stay turns out to be much more than anyone had bargained for. Based on the "Little Orphan Annie" comic strip which debuted in 1924 and ran for over 80 years, Annie is set in Depression Era, New York City, Christmastime 1933, a time when the economy looked bleak, government seemed ineffective and the average citizen was desperate and frustrated. Sound familiar? With its hopeful message and unwavering belief in a better tomorrow, she works her way into everyone's hearts and learns a few things for herself. Includes hit numbers Maybe, Tomorrow, Easy Street and A New Deal for Christmas.
Lombardi New Broadway Hit Play
by Eric Simonson
January 24 - February 5, 2012
Sport produces great human drama and there is no greater sports icon to bring to theatrical life than Hall of Fame football coach Vince Lombardi, unquestionably one of the most inspirational and quotable personalities of all time. Though football's Super Bowl trophy is named for him, few know the real story of Lombardi the man, his inspirations, his passions and ability to drive people to achieve what they never thought possible. Lombardi is based on the best-selling biography When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince Lombardi by Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss. "Lombardi is theatrical catnip for husbands and boyfriends otherwise reluctant to see most Broadway shows: Football! Vince Lombardi! The legendary Packers!"
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe Children's Play
Based on the book by C.S. Lewis
By Joseph Robinette
February 28-March 12, 2012
Set in the 1940s during World War II, the show follows four children, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, who escape their mundane world after the discovery of a magic wardrobe. Entering the wardrobe leads them into Narnia, a world of mythical creatures. While in Narnia, the Pevensies meet such characters as Tumnus, a friendly faun, Aslan, the great and powerful lion, and the evil White Witch. This story of love, faith, courage and giving, with its triumph of good over evil, is a true celebration of life.
All My Sons American Classic
Written by Arthur Miller
April 17-29, 2012
In Arthur Miller's powerful story about personal responsibility, the issues that surface are just as compelling today as when the play was first performed. Joe Keller strives for the American Dream, but two years after WWII's end, his family still suffers from its aftershocks. When Chris, the elder son, announces his plan to marry his still missing in action brother's fiancee, a mother must confront her denial, a son his father's fallibility, and a father his true responsibilities. This 1947 Tony Award winner for Best Play is emotionally electrifying and jarring in its continued relevance.
The Marvelous Wonderettes Musical Comedy
Written by Roger Bean
May 29-June 10, 2012
A cotton-candy colored, non-stop pop musical blast from the past! Featuring your favorite songs from the '50s and '60s, The Marvelous Wonderettes takes you to the 1958 Springfield High School prom where we meet the Wonderettes-Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy, four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts and voices to match! Classic 50's and 60's songs as "Lollipop," "Dream Lover," "Stupid Cupid," "Lipstick on Your Collar," "It’s My Party," "It's In His Kiss (The Shoop Shoop Song)" and so many more!
Touring Productions
Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad
In the Hewes Room
The classic Frank Capra film is re-told in the format of a 1940s radio show, complete with man-made sound effects, old-style commercials and live music. An ensemble of performers bring the characters of this beloved holiday favorite to life, and remind us why every life has an impact on its community. Great holiday fun for the whole family, this timely play is a wonderful holiday treat, which celebrates a wonderful life. (Best enjoyed by the whole family.)
Black Pearl Sings by Frank Higgins-February 2012
Jailed in a Texas prison, Alberta "Pearl" Johnson has little hope for release & even less for reconnecting with her missing daughter - until Susan Mullally, a song collector on a mission to record pieces of African American culture, overhears Pearl singing on a visit to the prison. Through her music, Pearl has the opportunity to earn her freedom & search for her daughter. This work harnesses race relations & the rich oral history of the Black community in a funny, touching & compelling tale.
