Greenman Theatre Troupe

2012-01-31T16:39:00.000-08:00

GreenMan New Comers Kick Up Their Heels in

"How the West Was Done In"

Elmhurst, IL – When GreenMan Theatre's new show "How the West Was Done In" opens on Friday February 17, there will be several excited cast members appearing in their first production of this sort. Elmhurst residents Lynn Sciaraffa Homeier, Heather Northway, and Alice Rebecchi join Chicago's Vicky Giannini, Schaumburg's James Harper, Alissa King of Carol Stream, Dan Rocha of Oak Park, and Streamwood resident Elizabeth Owsley as newcomers in a GreenMan dinner theatre murder mystery. "How the West Was Done In" by GreenMan members Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler is a spoof of Hollywood, the 1960's, and classic westerns such as "True Grit," "Blazing Saddles," "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," "Destry Rides Again," "High Noon," and several more.

Purchase Tickets Here!!

Even though Homeier, Owsley, Rebecchi, and Rocha have appeared in other productions with GreenMan Theatre, their murder mysteries offer a different theatrical dynamic than a traditional play. For starters, the audience sits at tables of 10 spread out around the large banquet hall at Angelo's Ristorante. The main action occurs in the center of the room. The actors cannot stay in one spot for too long as there are 18 people in the cast. When not the focus of a scene, actors move around the room among the audience. In the social atmosphere of a dinner theatre production, actors, as their characters, interact with the audience members before the show and during the meal breaks. This aspect appeals to Harper. "Being a first timer, this has been an amazing experience for me. I think I'm most looking forward to the audience participation portion when we go out into the crowd in character and interact," he said. The production features several songs and Harper relishes that, too. "I do love to sing, so I am grateful that I get to sing 3 songs in the show."

Rebecchi is familiar with the rehearsal process of this type of production, but has never been "onstage" when the show begins. She was a rehearsal assistant for last year's show "Here's Looking at You...Dead!" and that required her to fill in for actors who had schedule conflicts. By the time the show opened, she had portrayed virtually every character in rehearsal. Rebecchi looks forward to the actual performance. "This year is especially fun as I get my own character and am actually in the show," she said. Rebecchi also came up with the original song "You Can't Get a Man with a Pen" for her character, who is the screenwriter of the Hollywood western that's rehearsing scenes throughout the play.

Giannini acknowledges the challenges of this type of production. "Sometimes interacting with the audience is even a bit scary because it can change the outcome of a scene or song," she said. Nevertheless, she looks forward to the challenge. "The show is full of fun one-liners, great characters, and some really enjoyable music. I am sure any audience member (or cast member) will have the time of their life watching and performing in this hilarious murder mystery."

For Homeier, the best part of the production is working with fun people. "Everyone in the cast has a great sense of humor. We are working hard and enjoying every minute of it," she said. The murder mysteries start with a script, but actors are encouraged to add things of their own to help polish the final product. "Another really great thing about this show is that we have been able to suggest new ideas during the rehearsal process. I actually made a line suggestion that was added to the show," Homeier added.

Northway appreciates how this type of theatre can impact an audience. "I think that interactive dinner theatre brings such a great excitement to theatre goers different from that which you usually find at a show. It is my hope that we can reach out to them, fill them with our energy, and send them home with the excitement that is live theatre," she said.

"How the West Was Done In" will run for 5 performances only in the banquet room at Angelo's Ristorante at 247 N. York in Elmhurst. Show dates are Feb. 17-18-24-25-26. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7 PM and the Sunday performance begins at 6 PM. Doors open an hour before showtime for a cash bar as the characters mingle with the audience. Advance reservations can be made on the website or by calling 630-464-2646.

This event is GreenMan's fundraiser for the year, and it allows them to produce their season schedule, including lesser known and diverse productions, as well as offering theater education classes, such as stage combat and auditioning skills, to the community. The fee of $50 includes the show, a full course meal, and parking. This event does sell out, and quickly, so people who are interested in attending the show should make their advance reservations as soon as possible.

2012-01-22T19:42:00.000-08:00

Join the GreenMan Theatre Posse at “How the West Was Done In”

Elmhurst, IL – GreenMan Theatre is going "west" this winter, and they would like you to join them for their dinner theater musical mystery comedy "How the West Was Done In" by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler.

Audience members become part of the action in this type of show as actors interact with the patrons before and during the show, as well as during meal course breaks. "How the West Was Done In" takes place on a 1960's Hollywood western movie set with jealous and overzealous actors, a frustrated film crew, and two British hippies who get mistaken for actors. Tensions boil over and someone ends up dead. The audience will be able to gather clues throughout the evening and vote for the guilty party. Audience members can dress up in western duds or come as flower children if they so wish. Dressing up is not a requirement to attend. GreenMan Theatre awards prizes for most original costume and to select patrons who guess the culprit correctly.

Purchase Tickets Here!!

"How the West Was Done In" is a spoof of Hollywood, the 1960's, and classic westerns such as "True Grit," "Blazing Saddles," "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," "Destry Rides Again," and "High Noon," among others. The show features several musical and dance numbers to help entertain the audience, who will enjoy a full course family style Italian meal. It is an originally written work from GreenMan Board Members Thomas-Davidoff, who also directs, and Zeitler. This pair previously sent up "Casablanca" with last year's murder mystery show "Here's Looking at You...Dead!"

"How the West Was Done In" will run for 5 performances only in the banquet room at Angelo's Ristorante at 247 N. York in Elmhurst.

Show dates are Feb. 17-18-24-25-26. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7 PM and the Sunday performance begins at 6 PM. Doors open an hour before showtime for a cash bar as the characters mingle with the audience.

Reservations can be made online here or by calling 630-464-2646.

This event is GreenMan's fundraiser for the year, and it allows them to produce their season schedule, including lesser known and diverse productions, as well as offering theater education classes, such as stage combat and auditioning skills, to the community. The fee of $50 includes the show, the multi-course meal, and parking. You'll be hard pressed to get all that for that price at a venue downtown, so save some money, gas, and time by enjoying a local show while supporting the theater arts. This event does sell out, and quickly, so people who are interested in attending the show should make their reservations as soon as possible.

"How the West Was Done In" features Lauren Anders, Marilyn Connolly, Mario D'Agostino, Vicky Giannini, James Harper, Lynn Sciaraffa Homeier, Tom Hughes, Alissa King, Stan Kosek, Grace Martinez, Shazad Mehta, Jerry Moore, Heather Northway, Elizabeth Owsley, Alice Rebecchi, Dan Rocha, Carl Zeitler, and Jim Zervas.

GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

2012-01-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

Go "West" and Support GreenMan Theatre!!

GreenMan Theatre presents its annual murder mystery dinner theatre fundraiser. This year's production is "How the West Was Done In," an original work written by GreenMan Board Members Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler, who wrote last year's show "Here's Looking at You…Dead!"

"How the West Was Done In" takes place on a 1960s Hollywood western movie set. The veteran director and his crew are behind schedule as they deal with jealous and egotistical actors as well as two British hippies who wander onto the set. Amid the chaos, someone ends up dead. Before the Hollywood detective reveals the guilty party, the audience will play sleuth and see if they can guess who committed the crime.

"How the West Was Done In" is a spoof of Hollywood, the 1960s, and classic westerns such as "True Grit," "Blazing Saddles," "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," and "High Noon," among others. The show features several musical and dance numbers to help entertain the audience, who will enjoy a full course family style dinner and an interactive style of theater during the performance. The audience is encouraged to dress up in western garb or as flower children. Prizes go to the best costumed audience member as well as those who solve the crime correctly.

This popular event often sells out early, so make your reservations now. Come out for a full show and several course meal with free parking for only $50.

Purchase Tickets Here !

GreenMan Theatre's fundraiser allows them to produce shows and offer theatre education in Elmhurst, so your patronage helps support the local arts. "How the West Was Done In" will run for 5 performances in the banquet room at Angelo's Ristorante at 247 N. York in Elmhurst. Show dates are Feb. 17-18-24-25-26. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7 PM and the Sunday performance begins at 6 PM. Reservations can be made through this website or by calling 630-464-2646.

"How the West Was Done In" features Lauren Anders, Marilyn Connolly, Mario D'Agostino, Vicky Giannini, James Harper, Lynn Sciaraffa Homeier, Tom Hughes, Alissa King, Stan Kosek, Grace Martinez, Shazad Mehta, Jerry Moore, Heather Northway, Elizabeth Owsley, Alice Rebecchi, Dan Rocha, Carl Zeitler, and Jim Zervas.

GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

2011-12-27T15:54:00.000-08:00

GreenMan Theatre Announces Cast for...

“How the West Was Done In”

Elmhurst, IL – GreenMan Theatre Troupe is pleased to announce the cast for “How the West Was Done In.”

The production opens February 17 and runs five performances over two weekends through Feb. 26 at Angelo's Ristorante, 247 N. York Rd. in Elmhurst.

Purchase Tickets Here!

“How the West Was Done In” is an original interactive murder mystery dinner theatre production written by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler. The play is set in Hollywood during the 1960s and it spoofs the film industry, the 60s, and many classic westerns. A hard-bitten veteran movie director and his put upon production assistant struggle to deal with the various quirks, jealousies, and egos of the cast of their movie western currently in production. Two British flower children add to the confusion when they wander onto the set. Rehearsal comes to a halt when someone meets his or her fate. Everyone is under suspicion as the Hollywood Homicide Detective arrives on the scene. Before the details of who done it are revealed, the audience will have a chance to solve this terrible crime.

Elmhurst residents appearing in the production include Marilyn Connolly, Mario D’Agostino, Lynn Sciaraffa Homeier, Tom Hughes, Shazad Mehta, Jerry Moore, Heather Northway, Alice Rebecchi, and Jim Zervas. From Villa Park, Lauren Anders and Stan Kosek appear in the cast. From Chicago, Vicky Giannani and Grace Martinez appear. Other actors cast in the production include James Harper [Schaumburg], Alissa King [Carol Stream], Elizabeth Owsley [Streamwood] Dan Rocha [Oak Park], and Carl Zeitler [Glen Ellyn].

Behind the scenes, GreenMan board member and Western Springs resident Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff, who directed GreenMan’s production of “Here’s Looking at You…Dead” last year, will direct the show. Elmhurst resident Anne Thompson is the music director. Carl Zeitler is the production coordinator. James Ocasek is the technical director. Steven Soria is sound designer and is in charge of program design. Cheryl Turek is the stage manager and Elizabeth Owsley is the assistant stage manager.

GreenMan’s interactive mystery productions are staged in the upstairs banquet room of Angelo’s Ristorante. The actors play their characters throughout the whole room, involving audience members during the action of the play. Audience members are encouraged to arrive before the ‘curtain’ for an opportunity to relax and have a drink at the cash bar. For past shows, many audience members have dressed up in appropriate time period, as flappers for a show set in the 1920s or disco dancers for the 1970s – the current production is set in Hollywood during the 1960s. As the audience arrives, they are welcomed by the actors, who give information about the background of the story. Audience members often learn important clues to help them solve the mystery. GreenMan’s dinner shows offer a great value – with a full evening of entertainment. The productions always include musical numbers and a full family style dinner is served. At the end of the evening, audience members are awarded prizes for suggesting the best solution to the mystery.

Performances of “How the West Was Done In” are Friday and Saturday, Feb. 17-18 and 24-25, and Sunday Feb. 26 at Angelo’s Ristorante, 247 N. York Rd., Elmhurst.

Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday is at 6:00 p.m. Doors open an hour before the performance for a cash bar.

Tickets are $50 and include the performance and dinner. Free parking is available.

For more information call 630-464-2646.

Tickets go fast for GreenMan’s dinner show, so patrons are urged to reserve their tickets early.

GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

GreenMan also offers classes and workshops for members and the community and welcomes new members and participants in all aspects of theatre production.

2011-12-15T15:51:00.000-08:00

Next up at GreenMan!

"How the West Was Done In"

GreenMan's annual dinner theatre murder mystery fundraiser held at Angelo's Ristorante is next on the production schedule. "How the West Was Done In" by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler will run for 5 performances during the weekends between February 17-26, 2012.

Purchase Tickets Here!

"How the West Was Done In" deals with the production of a movie western. The veteran director and his put upon production assistant deal with actors and actresses with a variety of personality quirks while making a film that is a take-off on several classic westerns. Someone in the cast or crew ends up dead, and the audience gets to vote on who they think did it in this interactive dinner theater event.

For more information, please call 630-464-2646

2011-11-16T18:11:00.001-08:00

GreenMan Seeks to Round Up Actors for

"How the West Was Done In"

Auditions for GreenMan's original play "How the West Was Done In" by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler will be held on Sunday December 11 at 2 PM and Monday December 12 at 7 PM.

This interactive murder-mystery with singing and dancing is part of an annual fundraising production series for GreenMan, performed as a dinner theater event at Angelo's Ristorante in Elmhurst.

The production will run 5 performances: Feb. 17-18-24-25-26, 2012.

Auditions will be held at First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst.

Appointments are not required to audition. Auditions consist of cold readings from the script. There are roles for 6 men and 6 women. You do not have to sing to audition. If you are auditioning as a singer, have a song of your choice prepared. Bring a CD if you want music to accompany the song or you may sing it without music.

Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff will be directing the production.

For more information, please call 630-464-2646.

"How the West Was Done In" takes place on a Hollywood movie studio in the 1960's as a film crew rehearses a cast for the studio's latest western. An eclectic cast of characters emerge as actors become their movie counterparts. The play sends up many classic western movies as well as the Hollywood system itself. One of the characters ends up dead, and everyone else is a suspect. Actors interact with audience members as they try to see if they can decide who guilty party is.

Characters

6 Women

Tessa: A young, put upon production assistant on a Hollywood western film shoot

Claudia Moore (Ginger La Rue): Claudia is a veteran Hollywood actress who’s seen it all playing Ginger, the owner of a saloon

Vanessa D’Orsay (Frenchy): Vanessa has been Claudia’s rival for years playing Frenchy, a saloon singer/dancer

Tiffany Thompson (Hallie)/Agnes Novak: Tiffany is an up and coming star playing Hallie, a recently married schoolmarm. Agnes is a Hollywood Homicide Detective.

Frances: A screenwriter looking for her big break

Phyllis Everett (Marian): Phyllis is a Hollywood actress who has been in several recent box office failures playing Marian, a woman looking to strike it rich with a gold mine

6 Men

Buck Albright: A macho, hard-bitten, veteran movie director

Victor Lord (Hiram Kent): A veteran Hollywood character actor playing Kent, a corrupt official of a western town

Steve Manchester (Ostrich Hendershot): A young Hollywood actor much taken with the Method style of acting playing Ostrich, a drunken one-eyed lawman

Tony Sanders (Dexterity Balance): A timid new actor to Hollywood playing Dexterity, a notorious gunman

John Casey (Marshall Bill Able): Movie star of many westerns playing Bill Able, the straight-laced hero of the film

James: The technical supervisor of the film production

2011-11-03T16:25:00.001-07:00

GreenMan Offers Audition Skills Class

GreenMan Theatre is proud to offer an upcoming class on audtioning skills for actors of all levels of experience. This one day class is geared for actors who would like to polish their skills when it comes to auditioning for theatrical productions. GreenMan Artistic Director David Soria will be teaching this class, which will focus on skills for scene readings. The class will give students tools to use when given scenes to read 'cold' with a partner at an audition. No experience is required.

Soria has a diverse and extensive career in local theater. Some of the productions he has directed at GreenMan include "Pride and Prejudice," "The Importance of Being Earnest," "Shakespeare in Hollywood," and "Dracula." Soria has also directed productions at Illinois Wesleyan University, Moraine Valley Community College, and Elmhurst Children's Theatre. He has also acted in, produced, stage managed, and designed sets, lights, and sound at various theatres.

The class will be held on Saturday November 12 from 10 am to 12:30 pm at First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst.

Cost of the program is $20, $10 for GreenMan members.

For more information, please call 630-464-2646.

GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

2011-10-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Now Running at GreenMan Theatre...

Ravenscroft

By Don Nigro

Come Visit Ravenscroft Manor...if you dare!

It is a dark and snowy December evening in the year of 1905. A man has been found dead at the bottom of the main staircase at the Ravenscroft estate. Inspector Ruffing has been called upon to investigate at this remote manor in the English countryside. The death was reported as an accident. The Inspector comes to question the five women who reside in the house. He meets Mrs. Ravenscroft, a recent widow, her seventeen year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy, Gillian's governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the maid. Through his questioning, Inspector Ruffing comes to discover all kinds of truth. The truth about what really happened that night, the truth about these 5 very different women, and some truths about himself.

You now have the setting of Don Nigro's suspenseful dark comedy "Ravenscroft."

GreenMan Theatre presents "Ravenscroft" for a three weekend run opening Friday October 14 and running until Sunday October 30.

GreenMan member Phil Hendricks directs the production featuring Carl Zeitler (Ruffing), Carol Bair (Marcy), Mikhaila Scoville (Mrs. Ravenscroft), Kelly Wojnarowski (Gillian), Katie Monahan (Dolly), and Linda Roberts (Mrs. French). The production coordinators are Tim Ahlberg and Carl Zeitler. Cassy Beach is the set designer. Karen Kawa is the costume designer. Lynn Homeier is the stage manager. David Kummerow is the light designer.

Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees begin at 2 pm.

All performances take place in Asbury Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst.

Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors/students. For more information, please call 630-464-2646.

Click Here To Purchase Tickets.

GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

2011-10-26T18:03:00.000-07:00

Ravenscroft - The Inspector Reveals All

Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian’s governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts’ maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. Or was it? He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate. He has spoken to all of the suspects in this puzzling case, and he reflects on what he has learned as he readies himself to reveal what really happened that night.

The Inspector: John Ruffing

Ruffing’s Notes: I can't believe that I have had to drag my bones out to this remote manor on such a terrible night. I am faced with an odd looking house. It looks like it may have come out of something written by Mary Shelley or Bram Stoker. Odder still are the inhabitants of the manor. Mrs. French has been around long enough to know exactly where all the bodies are buried. Perhaps she even buried some. Dolly is a bundle of nerves and energy. Watching her scatter about makes me weary. She is as not dim as she lets on. Gillian is very astute. She can pick up on the slightest detail, and yet she seems to have a difference of opinion with reality, from time to time. Mrs. Ravenscroft dances around the facts of the case as a lion circles its prey. Is she the lion or the prey? And Marcy Kleiner? She resembles the closest thing to a normal person in this madhouse. It is for this reason that she remains a very likely suspect. I have set upon this journey for the truth, and my destination is at hand. It is time for the culprit to be named.

All will be revealed...

The Inspector requests you to be present for the revelation of what really happened in Ravenscroft Manor that fateful night. Join him and all the suspects at Asbury Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst. GreenMan Theatre has been informed by Scotland Yard that the Inspector will be made available to sort out the clues for only three nights further: October 28, 29, and 30. The Inspector requests that witnesses attend at 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets to discover the truth about Ravenscroft Manor are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. If you require more information, please telephone 630-464-2646.

2011-10-19T13:09:00.000-07:00

Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week

Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian’s governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts’ maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.

This Week’s Suspect: Marcy Kleiner

Ruffing: How long have you been employed at the Ravenscroft estate?

Marcy: I have worked here for the Ravenscrofts for 6 months.

Ruffing: What are your specific duties here?

Marcy: I work as governess and companion for the Ravenscrofts' daughter, Gillian. I educate her in all subjects. I even attempt to teach her different languages. She prefers French over German and Italian. Gillian would rather focus on creative exploits such as drawing, writing, and playing the piano than studying history or mathematics. Teaching her about literature is very simple; Gillian can easily visualize the story and draw out the subtle meanings found within the words.

Ruffing: How do you like working for the Ravenscrofts?

Marcy: I enjoy working with children. I have been doing it for some time. It is not my place to discuss the personal business of my employers.

Ruffing: What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?

Marcy: He could be very kind. I enjoyed making conversation with him when I started working for the Ravenscrofts. He was a very curious man, and he seemed to have strong superstitions. He often told me that we had a lot in common. He was also very fond of Gillian.

Ruffing’s Notes: Miss Kleiner seems different from the others. I feel she has a secret, too, but there is something about her. Did she mean she didn’t enjoy making conversation with Patrick as time went by? What happened? What manner of superstitions did Patrick have? This house holds no answers for me. Someone here is lying. Perhaps more than one. I will continue to investigate into these matters further.

More Will Be Revealed...

As the Inspector hunts for clues to lead him to the truth, be on the lookout for more suspects of the week. GreenMan Theatre invites you to attend “Ravenscroft” by Don Nigro to see for yourself who the culprit, or culprits, will be. Mrs. Ravenscroft cordially requests your presence at Asbury Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst. The Ravenscrofts will only provide their hospitality for 9 weekend gatherings between October 14 and 30. Mrs. Ravenscroft requests that guests attend at 7:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 pm on Sundays. Tickets to attend the Ravenscroft manor are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. If you require more information, please telephone 630-464-2646.

2011-10-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week

Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian’s governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts’ maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.

This Week's Suspect: Mrs. Ravenscroft.

Ruffing: How would you describe your daughter?

Mrs. Ravenscroft: My daughter Gillian is the most important person in my life. She has special needs and requires protecting at all costs. No matter what I have to do.

Ruffing: What can you say about the women working for you?

Mrs. Ravenscroft: Mrs. French is reliable and good at keeping secrets and keeps that silly maid Dolly in check. And Marcy? I'll tolerate her if she keeps Gillian happy, although there is something strange about her.

Ruffing: What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?

Mrs. Ravenscroft: It was certainly a shame about Patrick's death. A pleasant boy. He was so handy and useful to have around. Very strong. He was a wonderful gardener…so good with his hands. Of course there was NO murder here in this house. Just accidents! And I had nothing to do any of it; nothing at all. I am the lady of the house. Ladies don't commit murder…I mean accidents!

Ruffing’s Notes: How many skeletons are locked away in the closets here? Mrs. Ravenscroft seems very defensive when it comes to her daughter. To what lengths would she go to protect Gillian? Mrs. Ravenscroft thinks Marcy is strange. How does she mean? Plenty of strange behavior going on here. And why did Mrs. Ravenscroft refer to accidents? Was there more than one? I will continue to investigate into these matters further.

More Will Be Revealed...

2011-09-28T06:21:00.000-07:00

Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week

Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian's governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts' maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.

This Week’s Suspect: Gillian Ravenscroft

Ruffing: How do you get along with the servants in the household?

Gillian: Well, I can't say Mrs. French is really my favorite person. She never goes along with my jokes or games and she's always scolding me and can be quite cross. She doesn't seem to understand I'm only having fun. I mean really, there's only so much to do in this drafty old house. I'm afraid I get bored easily. She's no fun at all really. Maybe it’s because she's Irish. But Patrick was Irish, and he was loads of fun!

As for Dolly, well she amuses me quite a bit. To be honest, she's a bit "dim-witted" as my Mother put it so kindly once. She's not always that kind when it comes to Dolly. Don't tell Mother, but I do have quite a bit of fun with Dolly, I play pranks on her all the time and confuse her--she's easily confused. And naturally if I do something bad, I make it look like it was Dolly's fault and Mother always believes me! So does Mrs. French because she can't stand Dolly! And Dolly never tells on me because she doesn't want to lose her job. I do tend to get her in trouble with Mother a lot. Maybe that's why Mother doesn't like her too much either. Poor girl. But it's all in good fun really!

I absolutely adore Marcy! She's truly wonderful, so intelligent and so beautiful! I want to be like her someday. She's really the only one in the house who truly understands me. She's an excellent teacher too; Mother says I've come a long way in my studies since Marcy has come to work here. She's really the only friend I've got now since poor Patrick died. Mother and Mrs. French don't seem to like her very much and I'm not sure why. But I would absolutely throw a fit if Mother ever fired her, she's my closest companion.

Ruffing: What is your relationship with your mother like?

Gillian: Mother and I haven't always seen eye to eye on things, but recently we've become much more close. I'm afraid she's never really understood me that well, she thinks I'm a bit "odd"-- isn't that silly? She's never seemed to accept me for who I am. However, I think I'm more like her than she realizes. She has been quite protective of me lately, though. I suppose it's to do with what's all happened recently, and I have been upset a great deal. I can't really complain, she lets me have whatever I want and most of the time she lets me do whatever I please. I suspect it’s because she feels guilty and sorry for me and just wants me to be happy. That's sweet of Mama, isn't it? I know she loves me, and I love her too.

Ruffing: What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?

Gillian: I was completely distraught when I found out poor Patrick was dead. I was quite hysterical really; Mother and Marcy had to calm me down. Unfortunately, this isn't the first upsetting incident that's happened to me. I was so very fond of Patrick. I grew up with him in the house and he was always like an older brother to me. He always made time for me, even when he was working. I was never a bother to Patrick. He enjoyed my games and jokes, he could be quite funny! Then when I got a little older he became such a good friend. Truly a very special friend. We had so much fun together! It's a terrible shame what happened, I do miss him terribly.

Ruffing’s Notes: What manner of odd place is this? This is getting to be rather more complex than I had first anticipated. The only mystery that has been solved is why Dolly burns the meals here. Gillian seems to be obsessed with jokes, pranks, and games. What sort of humor do these entail? What other upsetting incidents has she encountered? I will continue to investigate into these matters further.

More will be revealed…

2011-09-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week

Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian's governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts' maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.

This Week’s Suspect: Dolly

Ruffing: How long have you been employed at the Ravenscroft estate? What are your specific duties here?

Dolly: Oh, I don't know 'ow long exactly, but I've been 'ere for a long time. I 'elp Mrs. French with the cookin' and cleanin'. My father used to work 'ere, too, but then there was an accident with an 'orse. Now 'e just stays in the attic....my father, not the 'orse. I like 'orses, I'm a very good rider.

Ruffing: How do you like working for the Ravenscrofts?

Dolly: Oh, I don't know, I guess I like working for the Ravenscrofts alright, but I keep burning the food and I don't like being yelled at, but I got no place else to go, so I keep working 'ere.

Ruffing: What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?

Dolly: Oh, I don't know, I liked Patrick, 'e used to take me riding. Then Mr. Ravenscroft died and things were different. Then poor Patrick died, too.

Ruffing’s Notes: At first glance, Dolly does not seem to be the sharpest tool in the box. Nor does she at second glance, for that matter. I have a feeling that she is more intelligent than she seems. Is this an act? And, if so, why? How were things different after Mr. Ravenscroft died? I will continue to investigate into these matters further.

More will be revealed…

2011-09-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week

Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian's governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts' maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.

This week's suspect: Mrs. French

How Long have you been employed at the Ravenscroft estate?

Since I was a girl: I was a housemaid for Mr. Ravenscroft's parents. I grew up in this house, and I've been here longer than anyone livin'.

What are your specific duties here?

I'm now the housekeeper! And the cook.

How do you like working for the Ravenscrofts?

I rather miss Mr. Ravenscroft. He did lend a bit of stability to the family.

What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?

He was a good boy! He was the kindest and cheerfulest man there ever was. He was handsome and young and strong. I love him. Like a son, of course.

Ruffing's notes: It seems to me that Mrs. French seems to know more than she is letting on. I detect some tension between her and Mrs. Ravenscroft. She does seem very fond of Patrick Roarke. I doubt that she is lying about that fact. I will continue to investigate into these matters further.

2011-07-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

GreenMan Remembers:

A Special 9/11/01 Commemoration Project

As the nation approaches the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, GreenMan Theatre Troupe is preparing to commemorate this time by presenting 6 performances of Anne Nelson's "The Guys." This play, which will run September 9-11 & 16-18 at First United Methodist Church in Elmhurst, is based on the actual true-life collaboration of a New York editor and a fire captain preparing eulogies for some of the fallen firefighters. The show emphasizes the need we all have to share our stories and the healing power that words can have as we struggle to deal with an unprecedented trauma (and its upcoming anniversary) such as this.

To that end, we would like to offer a space for you, members and friends of GMTT, to share your stories and memories from 9/11/01: where you were that day, how/from whom you heard the news of the day's events, any thoughts or images that have stuck with you over the past 10 years, or any words that may have given you comfort in the aftermath of the tragedy. We invite you to visit our Facebook page (be sure to click the FaceBook link on the next page to be taken to the GreenMan FaceBook page), where you are encouraged to share anything from simple phrases or images from that day, to stories or longer-form writing about your feelings and thoughts on that day and in the time since. You are also welcome to invite your friends, family members, and others to share their memories there as well.

If you or others would like to contribute but do not use Facebook, or do not wish to post publicly there, please send your text via e-mail to GMTTHouse@gmail.com and let us know if your words may be shared anonymously for this project.

We hope to incorporate some of the words you share into a lobby display at the performances so that we might share our experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and create our own community with words offered as tools for healing. We thank you in advance for sharing with us, and hope you'll all join us for the performances of "The Guys" in September.

2011-06-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

The 2011-2012 Season at GreenMan!

GreenMan Theatre looks back to the past while embracing change during their eighth season. Beginning with...

The Guys

A GreenMan Showcase Production.

GreenMan begins their schedule with their newly added Showcase production that will feature special projects and new works. Anne Nelson's The Guys will be the premiere Showcase production for GreenMan.

The Guys deals with an editor assisting a New York Fire Department captain in the preparation of the eulogies for the numerous firefighters who died under his command during the aftermath of the World Trade Center collapse. The New York Times wrote that “The Guys is not an ordinary night in the theater....What comes through is that humanity can be exalted by expression as well as the other way around.” The Guys will be presented as part of a commemoration of the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. It will run for six performances during the weekends of September 9-11 and 16-18.

Fall Production

Ravenscroft

In October, GreenMan will present Ravenscroft by Don Nigro as their fall production. Ravenscroft is set at the turn of the 20th century at a remote mansion in England. An inspector comes to investigate the death of a servant on the estate. Strangely, both the servant and his master before him died after taking at tumble down the mansion's staircase. Were these deaths accidental, or were they murder? The inspector comes to meet and question five women at the estate, each with a different account of what happened. As he is drawn more into the mysterious events surrounding this isolated mansion, the inspector comes to discover that he may not be in control of the proceedings. The surprising ending will astonish him and the audience. Ravenscroft will run for three weekends between October 14 and October 30.

Annual Fundraiser

How the West Was Done In

GreenMan's annual dinner theatre murder mystery fundraiser held at Angelo's Ristorante is next on the production schedule. How the West Was Done In by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler will run for 5 performances during the weekends between February 17-26, 2012. How the West Was Done In deals with the production of a movie western. The veteran director and his put upon production assistant deal with actors and actresses with a variety of personality quirks while making a film that is a take-off on several classic westerns. Someone in the cast or crew ends up dead, and the audience gets to vote on who they think did it in this interactive dinner theater event.

Spring Production

The Matchmaker

The final production of GreenMan’s upcoming season will be Thornton Wilder's delightful comedy The Matchmaker. Wilder's classic was the inspiration for the hit musical "Hello, Dolly." The play tells the familiar story of Dolly Levi, a marriage broker at the turn of the 20th century in Yonkers, New York. A local merchant has hired her to find him a wife. After mistaken identities, a secret rendezvous behind carefully placed screens, separated lovers, and a trip to night court, everyone ends up with their perfect match. The Matchmaker opens April 20, 2012, and will run for three weekends.

Volunteers will also be needed throughout the year to assist the production team in several areas.

Call 630-464-2646 for more information about auditioning or volunteering for the group.

2011-04-19T05:47:00.000-07:00

Still Time to Go Hollywood!

There is still time to see GreenMan Theatre's spring production of "Shakespeare in Hollywood."

"Shakespeare in Hollywood" by Ken Ludwig deals with classic Hollywood figures clashing with classic Shakespearean characters, often with very funny results. The play takes place in 1930's Hollywood. Max Reinhardt is in the midst of directing the Warner Brothers' movie version of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Reinhardt has stars Dick Powell, James Cagney, Mickey Rooney, and Joe E. Brown in his cast. It should be a can't miss project! But then the "real" Oberon and Puck from Shakespeare's play are magically transported onto the set and are mistaken for the actors portraying them. Can supernatural beings from the Magic Wood near Athens survive in the glitzy lifestyle of 20th Century Hollywood?

Performances of "Shakespeare in Hollywood" run the weekends of May 6-22. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees are at 2 PM.

Purchase Tickets Today!!

All performances will be held in Asbury Hall at First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst at 232 S. York.

Tickets are $15 and $13 for students/seniors. Free parking is available.

For more information or tickets, call 630-464-2646 .

GreenMan Artistic Director David Soria is directing the production, which features local actors from surrounding communities. The cast includes Renata Allelujka, Harry Davis, Chuck Erickson, Margie Gustafson, Bibi Lebechi, Rob Rebecchi, Teresa Reinalda, Jim Karwoski, Nancy Mesenbrink, Michael Mochizuki, Katie Monahan, Rob Reinalda, Steve Schroeder, Scott Surowiecki, Kelly Wojnarowski, and Carl Zeitler.

2011-03-17T06:29:00.000-07:00

GreenMan Theatre Announces Cast of...

“Shakespeare in Hollywood”

Ken Ludwig’s fast-paced comedy “Shakespeare in Hollywood” will come to life on stage at GreenMan Theatre this spring.

Performances of “Shakespeare in Hollywood” run the weekends of May 6-22. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees are at 2 PM. All performances will be held in Asbury Hall at First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst at 232 S. York. Tickets are $15 and $13 for students and seniors. Free parking is available.

More information is available by calling GreenMan at 630-464-2646, or by email, greenmantheare@gmail.com.

Local actors appearing in the production include Scott Surowiecki and Chuck Erickson from Addison. From Glen Ellyn, Nancy Mesenbrink and Carl Zeitler appear in the cast. Renata Allelujka from Downers Grove, Margie Gustafson from Lombard, and Michael Mochizuki from Western Springs also appear. From Chicago, Jim Karwoski. From Aurora, Harry Davis is part of the cast. Other actors appearing in the production include Katie Monahan [Oak Park], Rob Reinalda [Mt. Prospect], Steve Schroeder [Warrenville], and Kelly Wojnarowski [Arlington Heights].

GreenMan Artistic Director and Lombard resident David Soria, who directed GreenMan’s production of “The Rimers of Eldritch” last fall, will direct. From Elmhurst, Jim Ocasek will serve as Lights and Set Designer, Steven Soria will be in charge of sound design, and Lynn Holmeier will serve as Assistant Stage Manager as well as appear as a member of the onstage ensemble. Addison resident Benjamin Vargas will design the costumes for the production.

“Shakespeare in Hollywood” is the final production of GreenMan’s seventh season, which started with Lanford Wilson’s powerful drama “The Rimers of Eldritch.” GreenMan continues their season in April, with a special production of “Soldier, Come Home” by Frank Wicks, in commemoration of the 150^th anniversary of the start of the American Civil War. GreenMan’s dinner theatre murder mystery, “Here’s Looking at You – Dead!” played to sold-out houses at Angelo’s Ristorante in Elmhurst during February.

Volunteers are always welcomed to assist GreenMan’s production teams in many areas. For more information about auditions or volunteer positions, call 630-464-2646.

2011-01-28T06:20:00.000-08:00

2011-01-24T17:23:00.000-08:00

2011-01-20T07:40:00.000-08:00

Cast Announced For

"Here's Looking At You...Dead!!"

GreenMan Theatre Troupe announces the cast for "Here's Looking At You...Dead!!"

"Here's Looking At You...Dead!!" is an interactive murder mystery dinner theatre production written by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler.

Purchase your ticket today by clicking here!

The play is set in Paris in 1942, at Nick’s Café, amidst the backdrop of World War II. Disaffected café owner Nick is surprised when his old flame Julia arrives, after having abandoned him in Berwyn to aid the war effort. Nick is even more surprised when shots ring out in the café and bodies start dropping. Before the local police detective suggests rounding up ‘the usual suspects,’ the audience will have a chance to solve this terrible crime.

Elmhurst residents appearing in the production include Marilyn Connolly, Mario D’Agostino, Tom Hughes, Shazad Mehta, Jerry Moore, Cynthia Rosati, and Jim Zervas. From Glen Ellyn, Nancy Mesenbrink and Carl Zeitler appear in the cast.

And from Chicago, Joe Collins and Grace Martinez appear. Other actors cast in the production include Lauren Anders [Villa Park], Edward Barnett [Schaumburg], Katie Monahan [Oak Park], and Kelly Wojnarowski [Arlington Heights].

GreenMan board member and Western Springs resident Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff, who recently directed GreenMan's production of "Speakeasy or Die Hard!!" and appeared as Lady Bracknell in "The Importance Of Being Earnest" will direct the show.

Elmhurst resident Anne Thompson is the music director. Behind the scenes, Jim Ocasek [Elmhurst] and David Soria [Lombard] are the production managers. Elmhurst college graduate, Christine Mullen will design the costumes. Cheryl Turek [Glen Ellyn] is the stage manager. GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

GreenMan Actors Reflect on Murder Mystery Experiences

Performances of "Here's Looking At You...Dead!!" are Friday and Saturday, Feb 18-19 and 25-27 at Angelo's Ristorante, 247 N. York Rd., Elmhurst. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday is at 6:00 p.m. Doors open an hour before the performance for a cash bar. During the cocktail hour, characters from the show mix with the audience and important clues may be discovered.

Tickets are $45 and include the performance and a complete family style dinner.

Free parking is available.

For more information call 630-464-2646 or purchase your ticket today by clicking here!

2011-01-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

On Monday January 16, one month after her untimely passing, several GreenMan members and friends took time to celebrate and reflect on the life of our friend and colleague, Carol Bair. We invite you to learn more about this kind, talented, and giving individual.

Remembering Carol Bair

2010-11-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

Cheryl Rice -

Cheryl is a recent addition to the GMTT Board and is responsible for management of the Box Office Committee. She has also been actively involved in the play selection committee during recent seasons. Cheryl has appeared on stage with GreenMan in The Guys, The Rimers of Eldritch, and I Only Have Ives for You. She is very happy to be getting involved at a more intense level with such a great group of people making the art of theatre.

2010-11-02T21:46:00.000-07:00

Unarmed Stage Combat Workshop

offered at GreenMan Theatre.

GreenMan Theatre's Education Department is proud to announce a two session class in unarmed stage combat. The class will be taught by Angela Bend and Scott Surowiecki, who have professional stage combat experience. Scott has years of professional wrestling experience and Angela has earned recommended proficiencies in six out of eight weapons recognized by the Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD).

This workshop will cover basic unarmed fighting movements commonly used in stage productions. The goal of this class is to introduce students to unarmed combat skills so that they may execute these techniques in a safe and controlled manner.

The class will take place on Sat. Dec. 4 and Sat. Dec. 11, from 12 noon to 2 p.m. in Asbury Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst.

Cost for the two session class is $25 for GreenMan members, $30 for non-members.

The class is open to adults and students 16 and older.

For questions or registration, please call: 630-464-2646.

Space is limited, so please register early.

2010-11-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

Auditions coming up at GreenMan for

Here's Looking at You...Dead!!

GreenMan's annual murder mystery dinner theatre production will be holding auditions on Sunday, December 12 at 1 PM and Monday December 13 at 7 PM.

Auditions will be held in Asbury Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst.

Auditions consist of cold readings from the script. Some improvisation may be included in audition.

Appointments are not required to audition.

Roles consist of seven men and six women. Some of the roles will sing, but singing is not required to audition. For those looking for a singing role, a prepared song is acceptable.

Here's Looking at You...Dead! was written by GreenMan board members Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler. The play takes place in Paris in 1942 amidst World War II. Characters and events similar to Casablanca are taken and stood on their heads for often comedic effect.

Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff will direct the production.

Character Descriptions

Nick: Disaffected yet devoted owner of a café in Paris

Julia: Nick’s former flame that left him to aid in the World War II effort

Yvette: Nick’s Girl Friday who books talent for the café. Smitten with Nick
Francois: Nick’s bartender and all-around nice guy who is smitten with Yvette
Delores: A boozy, British barfly with eccentric family stories
Laverne: One half of a sister musical act looking for work; the brains of the act
Maxene: The other half of the act; definitely not the brains of the outfit
Jean-Claude: An older gentleman taken with American culture who’s not too bright
Henri: A French police official who thinks of himself first, second, and third
Jacqueline: Nick’s tightwad landlady who is wise, world weary, and tough on others
Gaston: Frequents Nick’s Café, trying to interest the clients in purchasing black market items
Chef: Looks for creative solutions to deal with the lack of rations caused by the war
Schultz/Beissner: Two Officers of the Third Reich (played by same actor)

For questions, please call: 630-464-2646.

2010-10-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week

Mrs. French

Dolly

Gillian Ravenscroft

Mrs. Ravenscroft

Marcy Kleiner

Inspector Ruffing

2010-09-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Next Up For GreenMan...

Spooky Stories of the Season:

October 7 & 8 Only!

GreenMan Theatre has announced the storytellers for their annual production "Spooky Stories of the Season." Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff is directing performers who attended her recent storytelling class, which met over three sessions. Thomas-Davidoff taught elements of storytelling for several genres of stories to participants with a variety of storytelling experience. She also performs in "Spooky Stories of the Season." Joining her will be Marilyn Connolly, Gary Davidoff, Rich Geiger, Lynn Homeier, Tom Hughes, Stan Kosek, Grace Martinez, Sue Nika, Alice Rebecci, and Rob Rebecci.

"Spooky Stories of the Season" is performed in two sets. It consists of spooky stories and songs. It is suitable for adults, older children, and families. The first set will contain less scary content. After an intermission, the second act will begin with more intense and scarier stories and songs. Refreshments will be sold during the intermission.

"Spooky Stories of the Season," runs for two performances only on Friday, October 7 & Saturday, October 8th at 7:00 pm. All performances will be at the First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York in Elmhurst.

Tickets are $5 and group discounts are available.

Click Here To Purchase Tickets Today!

For more information about the Spooky Stories workshop or performances call 630-464-2646.

2010-09-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

GreenMan Theatre Season Tickets!

Available Now!

Click here to purchase your Season Tickets today!

What do you get with a GreenMan Theatre Troupe Season Ticket?

Tickets To Local Theatre!

No season ticket is provided, instead, purchasers receive priority reservations allowing one time attendance to all three of GreenMan Theatre Troupe’s productions, including our annually sold out Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at Angelo’s Restaurant in Elmhurst.

Savings!

At a total cost of $65 our season ticket subscription offers a savings of $10 off adult individually purchased tickets.

No restrictive ticket plans!

GreenMan subscribers have the opportunity to attend any show you choose with advanced reservation.

The Best Seats!

GreenMan’s annual fundraiser Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at Angelo’s Restaurant in Elmhurst is always sold out. Subscribers are reserved the best tables and given first pick of the seats at those tables through advanced reservations.

GreenMan Theatre Troupe

20010-2011 Season

"The Rimers of Eldritch"

By Lanford Wilson,

Directed by David Soria

Opens Oct. 15th at First United Methodist Church

Lanford Wilson’s award winning play centers on the residents of a small Midwestern town. One of them has been shot and killed; everyone knows who pulled the trigger, but not everyone knows why.

Lanford Wilson has received numerous awards for his work, including multiple Obie awards and the Pulitzer Prize in Drama for “Talley’s Folly.” His many plays include “Book of Days,” “Balm in Gilead,” and “The Hot l Baltimore.” He won the Drama Desk Vernon Rice Award for “The Rimers of Eldritch.” Dark, moody, and searing in its honesty, the play has been described as a dramatically modern “Our Town.” When the shocking truth about the shooting is finally revealed, no one has been untouched by the taint of the brutal crime.

The Rimers of Eldritch runs Oct. 15th - Oct. 31st.

Here's Looking at You...Dead!
By Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff and Carl Zeitler
Directed by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff

Opens Feb. 18th at Angelo's Ristorante in Elmhurst

This original GreenMan production takes a premise that seems similar to one in Casablanca, and stands it on its head. Amidst World War II in Paris, a group of diverse characters find themselves dealing with one issue after another, often with comedic results. They experience love, laughter, singing, with perhaps someone being murdered along the way. It's been said that in tough times, a person's true character shows itself. If that's the case, then plan on interacting with some characters that are truly entertaining. We invite you to see if you can guess "whodunit" at this year's GreenMan Murder Mystery, which has become a traditional sell-out event.

Dinner show runs Feb. 18th - Feb. 27th.

Shakespeare in Hollywood

By Ken Ludwig

Opens May 6th at First United Methodist Church

It's 1934, and Shakespeare's most famous fairies, Oberon and Puck, have magically materialized on the Warner Bros. Hollywood set of Max Reinhardt's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Instantly smitten by the glitz and glamour of show biz, the two are ushered onto the silver screen to play (who else?) themselves. With a little help from a feisty flower, blonde bombshells, movie moguls, and arrogant "asses" are tossed into loopy love triangles, with raucous results. The mischievous magic of moviedom sparkles in this hilarious comic romp. Commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare in Hollywood had its world premier in 2003 at Arena Stage and won the Helen Hayes award for Best New Play of the Year.

Shakespeare in Hollywood runs May 6th - May 22nd.

2010-07-27T06:14:00.000-07:00

Box Office News!

In response to concerns expressed by you, our patrons and members, about costly fees for online orders, the box office has switched to a new online ticket system. Our new box office partner, TicketPeak, will offer our supporters the ease and convenience of buying GreenMan Theatre Troupe tickets online, with significantly lower fees. Single ticket purchases will be subject to fees of only approx. $1 per ticket for our Mainstage and newly added "Showcase" productions, while tickets to our perpetually sold-out murder mystery dinner theater fundraiser will be subject to fees of only approx. $2 per ticket. We sincerely hope this new partnership with Ticket Peak will be a welcome improvement in our operations, and we look forward to seeing you at our shows during the exciting Season 8 we have planned for 2011-2012!

Sincerely,

The GreenMan Theatre Troupe Board of Trustees,

Box Office Committee.

2010-06-22T17:31:00.000-07:00

GreenMan Theatre Troupe

Announces auditions for their fall production of...

"The Rimers of Eldritch"

by Lanford Wilson

Auditions will be held on Sunday, August 22nd at 1 P.M., Monday, August 23rd at 7 P.M. and Tuesday, August 24th at 7 P.M.

Auditions will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York Rd., in Elmhurst.

"The Rimers of Eldritch" Opens October 15th and runs three weekends through October 31st.

GreenMan Theatre Artistic Director, David Soria, who recently directed GreenMan's productions of "Dracula" and "Pride & Prejudice," will direct the show.

About the Play:

There are roles for 10 women and 7 men. All roles are open. Character ages range from 14 to 60+

Lanford Wilson's play has been described as a darkly modern "Our Town." In the small town of Eldritch, a man has been shot and killed. Everyone knows who pulled the trigger, but no one knows everything that led up to the killing.

In Wilson's powerful play, he exposes the corrosive effects of small minded jealousies and mistaken assumptions. When the shocking truth is finally revealed, no one has been untouched by the taint of the brutal crime.

Audition Information form may be viewed and printed here. Please, fill-out and bring to audition. Thanks!

Rehearsals will be scheduled four times a week.

There are additional positions behind the scenes.

Call GreenMan at 630-464-2646 for more information. Or email Rimers2010@gmail.com

2010-03-15T18:25:00.000-07:00

GreenMan Announces Cast,

"Don't Drink the Water."

GreenMan Theatre has cast a talented group of local actors in their spring production of Woody Allen’s comedy “Don’t Drink the Water.”

Woody Allen’s play centers on a New Jersey caterer and his family, who stumble into trouble when they are mistaken for spies behind the Iron Curtain.

Playing the hapless caterer, Walter, is Elmhurst resident, Chuck Jacobson. Chuck has appeared in numerous GreenMan productions, including his role as Oscar in “The Odd Couple.” Appearing as his wife, Marion, is Chicago resident Diane Watry, making her GreenMan debut. Their daughter, Susan, is played by Courtney Kynsch, also of Elmhurst. Other local actors cast in the production include, from Elmhurst, Jim Zervas, Tim Ahlberg [Oak Park], Nick Bender [Naperville], Harry Davis [Aurora], Randy Eddy [Mt. Prospect], Kyle Rath [Willowbrook], and Alice Rebecchi [Elmhurst].

Set in the mid 1960’s, when the Cold War was at its height. Walter and his family take refuge in the American Embassy, just as the secret police arrive to arrest him for taking pictures at a military base. The Embassy isn’t much of a refuge however, for the ambassador’s bumbling son is in charge. Nevertheless, they frantically plot an escape, and the ambassador's son and the caterer's daughter even have time to fall in love. Behind the scenes, Benjamin Vargas [Addison] directs the production and will design costumes; Alice Rebecchi is the stage manager. Jim Ocasek [Elmhurst] will design the set and lights; Jim Zervas is the assistant director.

Purchase Tickets Today!!

The production will take place at the First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York Rd., in Elmhurst, opening April 16th and running three weekends through May 2.

Performances are Fri and Sat nights at 7:30 and Sun matinees are at 3 pm. Tickets are $15, and $13 for students and seniors. Student and other groups are welcome. For more information about the production call 630-464-2646.

Cast List:

Father Drobney....Harry Davis

Ambassador Magee....Alice Rebecchi

Kilroy....Nick Bender

Axel Magee....Kyle Rath

Marion Hollander....Diane Watry

Walter Hollander....Chuck Jacobson

Susan Hollander....Courtney Kynsch

Krojack....Tim Ahlberg

Chef....Randy Eddy

Sultan of Bashir....Jim Zervas

Kasnar....Jim Zervas

Novotny....

Party guests.... ensemble

2010-03-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

Speakeasy or Die Hard!!

The Murder-u-mentory.

Directed by Jim Zervas