In Memory of Paul Hennesy

Paul Kevin Hennesy

April 20, 1954 – April 24, 2015

Paul Hennesy 2

Paul Hennesy 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are saddened to report that PPF member Paul Hennesy passed away on April 24th. Along with fellow PPF-member and life-long friend Mike Mattheisen, Paul won the 2013 WATCH award for Outstanding Set Decoration in a Play for PPF’s production of Mark Twain’s comedy Is He Dead? Paul, a talented landscape painter, also helped design and build the set and allowed the PPF to use much of his own studio on stage and many of his very fine paintings. PPF extends it thoughts and condolences to Paul’s family.

Is He Dead Set Act 1 - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The Set of “Is He Dead?” Act 1

 

The Set of Is He Dead Act 2 - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The Set of “Is He Dead?” Act 2
Is He Dead Cast and Crew
The cast and company of “Is He Dead?” directed by Beth Hughes-Brown. Paul Hennesy is far right standing.
Oshaughnessy
In addition to set decoration, Paul created and added many unique touches to the PPF production of “Is He Dead?” that brought laughter to the audience and good humor to the company

Farewell Paul – you will be missed

Visitation and Funeral arrangements for Paul Kevin Hennesy 

April 20, 1954 – April 24, 2015

The Hennesy  family will have a visitation service from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday May 7th at Domaine Funeral Home, 10565 Main St, Fairfax, VA.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am on Friday May 8th at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 3901 Woodburn Road, Annandale, VA.

  Internment will immediately follow the funeral mass at Fairfax Memorial Gardens, 9900 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Paul K. Hennesy to the American Cancer Society.

2015 PPF Student Scholarship Applications Due April 30, 2015

2015 Scholarship Program Announced

Once again, as a way of nurturing future theater artists and recognizing the contribution graduating high school seniors have made to the arts community in our region, PPF has established a scholarship program that provides scholarships to college-bound students from area high schools. Scholarships are limited each year.

This year, in partnership with the Arts Council of Fairfax County, we anticipate awarding three scholarships, each of $1500, to 2015 graduating seniors with a demonstrated commitment to theater arts who have been accepted to a U.S. accredited college or university or conservatory program with an intent to further contribute to theater arts.

Eligible graduating seniors must (1) reside within the school boundaries of Annandale, Fairfax, Falls Church, George Mason, J.E.B. Stuart, Marshall, Woodson or Yorktown high schools OR (2) have been a member of PPF for at least one year. It is not required that applicants to be committed to a theater arts major in college, only that they plan on continuing their involvement and contribution to theater arts in the future.

The Scholarship Application Form (in Word and in pdf format) is now available.

Applications must be completed and emailed to providenceplayers@cox.net no later than April 30, 2015.

Supplementary materials, including letters of recommendation, listed on the application form must be mailed to PPF at the address shown on the application.

PPF must receive these supplementary materials by April 30, 2015.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee appointed by PPF.  The committee will consist of community representatives, including members of the arts community.  The criteria for the awards shall be as follows:

  • 40% based on the applicant’s past involvement in theater arts and contributions made to theater arts;
  • 10% based on the applicant’s contribution to Providence Players of Fairfax (if any); and
  • 50% based on the applicant’s potential to further contribute to theater arts.

Decisions on the scholarship awards will be announced by June 1, 2015

Come Laugh With Us! Next Up for PPF: The Glass Mendacity

Opens May 29th for Three Week Run

Tickets On Sale Here

GlassMendacity_webby Maureen Morley and Tom Willmorth

Directed by Jayne Victor

What do you get when you put the characters of A Streetcar Named Desire, The Glass Menagerie and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof in the same room?  A hilarious comedy that parodies some of Tennessee William’s most popular southern dramas. It’s Big Daddy’s birthday and the entire blended family have gathered at Belle Reve to celebrate with sweet tea, cheese balls, cards and brutish, unfettered, southern charm. If you don’t know these plays, don’t fret. These off-kilter and dysfunctional family shenanigans can be enjoyed by all!

PERFORMANCE DATES AND TIMES

Thurs, Fri and Sat 7:30 p.m.

May 29, 30, June 4, 5, 6, 11, 12 & 13

Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7

Tickets On Sale Here

CLOSING NIGHT: Final Performance of PPF’s Hit “Other Desert Cities” – Tickets Will be Available At the Door

Just one performances remains for the Providence Players critical and audience hit “Other Desert Cities”. It is closing weekend but there are still outstanding seats available tonight (Saturday) for the closing night performance.  This is the last chance to catch a terrific production of one of the more popular dramatic comedies in recent years. The production has recieved great praise from audience and an outstanding “must see” review from DcMetroTheaterArts.com. The remaining performances are both at 7:30 PM and your best bet for the best seat selection is to purchase online at the link below. Join us for this “delightful comedy and poignant drama”!


PPF 1 -PPF ODC Promo Photo

LAST CHANCE: Final Performance Tonight

The Providence Players Present Other Desert Cities

By Jon Robin Baitz – Directed by Tina Thronson

James Lee Community Center Theater  2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA

Tickets On Sale Here

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

 Sat 7:30 p.m. March 28

AUDIENCE AND CRITICAL REACTION

”The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece.” – DCMTA

“Skilled, seasoned actors make this beautifully written play a laugh-filled, enjoyable evening that you will be talking about for some time.Laughter in Other Desert Cities is frequent and well-earned.The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece. Bobby Welsh is terrific as Trip Wyeth.. Silda Grauman is played energetically and with great humor by Barbara Gertzog. The set is excellent [and the] Lighting Design by Jason Hamrick was strong. Don’t delay, and get your tickets now to Providence Players of Fairfax’s superb Other Desert Cities.”  from DcMetrotheaterArts Chuck Leonard

Providence Players Other Desert Cities Cast Montage Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The cast of the Providence Players production of Other Desert Cities. Photos by Chip Gertzog, Providence Players

“Am always surprised and thrilled to discover “little” local theatre productions that just rock!!! Excellent performance last night.”- Audience Member

“Wonderful theatre space, good staging, excellent acting, very interesting play.” – Audience Member

“Seriously! The script, acting, set, everything was so well done. Such a bargain for a night’s first class entertainment!” – Audience Member

“I was in VA last week-end and attended opening night of “Other Desert Cities”.  Your cast did a fabulous job–the humor and pain of the Wyeth family story was beautifully presented. Your set was very bright, sunny and very Palm Springs! Thanks for an enjoyable evening in a beautiful and comfortable theatre with an accessible parking area.” – Audience Member

Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman in Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Don’t Miss “Other Desert Cities”: Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman

Recently, one of the hottest tickets on Broadway and a 2012 Tony nominee, Other Desert Cities opens on the Providence Players stage at the James Lee Community Center Theater through March 28th. This Pulitzer Prize Finalist play by Jon Robin Baitz is a funny and smart drama filled with witty repartee that both dazzles and decimates. It is beautifully written and is full of both humorous and deeply felt moments. The New York Times called Other Desert Cities “the best new play on Broadway,” and audiences everywhere are finding it both entertaining and insightful. This witty and thought provoking family drama strikes the perfect balance between comedy and drama and has been called “smart, supremely entertaining and richly satisfying”.

ONLINE TICKETS FOR PPF’S OTHER DESERT CITIES ON SALE HERE (Best Seat Selection)

 Reserve Tickets By Email at providenceplayerstickets@cox.net

By Phone at 703-425-6782

Or Purchase at the Door

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd

OTHER DESERT CITIES PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Tina Thronson
Producer: Mike Mattheisen
Stage Manager: Michael P. Donahue
Assistant Directors: Michael P. Donahue, Susan Kaplan
Technical Director: Jason Hamrick
Lighting Design: Jason Hamrick
Set Design: John Coscia
Set Construction: John Coscia
Set Decoration: Ingrid David
Set Painting: Craig Geoffrion
Costume Design: Robbie Snow
Hair and Makeup Design: Beth Harrison
Properties: Beckie McNair and Julie Janson
Box Office and Ticket Sales: Danine Welsh and Mike Dazé
House Management: Beth Whitehead
Playbill: Ellen Burns
Photography: Chip Gertzog
Publicity: Chip Gertzog

 

CLOSING WEEK: “Other Desert Cities”- Both a delightful comedy and poignant drama that audiences are loving- Tickets Still Available

 

PPF 1 -PPF ODC Promo Photo

Three Performances Remain

The Providence Players Present Other Desert Cities

By Jon Robin Baitz – Directed by Tina Thronson

James Lee Community Center Theater  2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA

Tickets On Sale Here

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

Thurs, Fri & Sat 7:30 p.m. March 26, 27 & 28

AUDIENCE AND CRITICAL REACTION

”The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece.” – DCMTA

“Skilled, seasoned actors make this beautifully written play a laugh-filled, enjoyable evening that you will be talking about for some time.Laughter in Other Desert Cities is frequent and well-earned.The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece. Bobby Welsh is terrific as Trip Wyeth.. Silda Grauman is played energetically and with great humor by Barbara Gertzog. The set is excellent [and the] Lighting Design by Jason Hamrick was strong. Don’t delay, and get your tickets now to Providence Players of Fairfax’s superb Other Desert Cities.”  from DcMetrotheaterArts Chuck Leonard

Providence Players Other Desert Cities Cast Montage Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The cast of the Providence Players production of Other Desert Cities. Photos by Chip Gertzog, Providence Players

“Am always surprised and thrilled to discover “little” local theatre productions that just rock!!! Excellent performance last night.”- Audience Member

“Wonderful theatre space, good staging, excellent acting, very interesting play.” – Audience Member

“Seriously! The script, acting, set, everything was so well done. Such a bargain for a night’s first class entertainment!” – Audience Member

“I was in VA last week-end and attended opening night of “Other Desert Cities”.  Your cast did a fabulous job–the humor and pain of the Wyeth family story was beautifully presented. Your set was very bright, sunny and very Palm Springs! Thanks for an enjoyable evening in a beautiful and comfortable theatre with an accessible parking area.” – Audience Member

Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman in Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Don’t Miss “Other Desert Cities”: Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman

Recently, one of the hottest tickets on Broadway and a 2012 Tony nominee, Other Desert Cities opens on the Providence Players stage at the James Lee Community Center Theater through March 28th. This Pulitzer Prize Finalist play by Jon Robin Baitz is a funny and smart drama filled with witty repartee that both dazzles and decimates. It is beautifully written and is full of both humorous and deeply felt moments. The New York Times called Other Desert Cities “the best new play on Broadway,” and audiences everywhere are finding it both entertaining and insightful. This witty and thought provoking family drama strikes the perfect balance between comedy and drama and has been called “smart, supremely entertaining and richly satisfying”.

ONLINE TICKETS FOR PPF’S OTHER DESERT CITIES ON SALE HERE (Best Seat Selection)

 Reserve Tickets By Email at providenceplayerstickets@cox.net

By Phone at 703-425-6782

Or Purchase at the Door

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd

OTHER DESERT CITIES PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Tina Thronson
Producer: Mike Mattheisen
Stage Manager: Michael P. Donahue
Assistant Directors: Michael P. Donahue, Susan Kaplan
Technical Director: Jason Hamrick
Lighting Design: Jason Hamrick
Set Design: John Coscia
Set Construction: John Coscia
Set Decoration: Ingrid David
Set Painting: Craig Geoffrion
Costume Design: Robbie Snow
Hair and Makeup Design: Beth Harrison
Properties: Beckie McNair and Julie Janson
Box Office and Ticket Sales: Danine Welsh and Mike Dazé
House Management: Beth Whitehead
Playbill: Ellen Burns
Photography: Chip Gertzog
Publicity: Chip Gertzog

 

 

“Other Desert Cities”- both delightful comedy and poignant drama- Tickets Still Available

” The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece.” – DCMTA

“Am always surprised and thrilled to discover “little” local theatre productions that just rock!!! Excellent performance last night.”- Audience Member

“Wonderful theatre space, good staging, excellent acting, very interesting play.” – Audience Member

Andra Whitt with Tina Thronson as daughter and mother in Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Andra Whitt (left) with Tina Thronson as daughter and mother in “Other Desert Cities”
Tina Thronson as Polly Weyth and Andra Whitt as Brooke Wyeth Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Tina Thronson (left) as Polly Weyth and Andra Whitt as Brooke Wyeth

 

 

 

 

 

Just Five Performances Remain

Good Seats Still Available

The Providence Players Present Other Desert Cities

By Jon Robin Baitz – Directed by Tina Thronson

James Lee Community Center Theater  2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA

Tickets On Sale Here

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

REMAINING PERFORMANCES

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. March 21, 26, 27 & 28

Final Sunday Matinee 2:00 p.m. March 22

Barbara Gertzog as Silda and Andra Whitt as Brooke Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
L to R: Barbara Gertzog as Silda and Andra Whitt as Brooke in “Other Desert Cities” on stage through March 28th from the Providence Players

REVIEWS:

“Skilled, seasoned actors make this beautifully written play a laugh-filled, enjoyable evening that you will be talking about for some time.Laughter in Other Desert Cities is frequent and well-earned.The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece. Bobby Welsh is terrific as Trip Wyeth.. Silda Grauman is played energetically and with great humor by Barbara Gertzog. The set is excellent [and the] Lighting Design by Jason Hamrick was strong. Don’t delay, and get your tickets now to Providence Players of Fairfax’s superb Other Desert Cities.”  from DcMetrotheaterArts Chuck Leonard

Tina Thronson and Bobby Welsh on Stage in the Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Tina Thronson and Bobby Welsh on Stage in the Providence Players’ “Other Desert Cities”

Seriously! The script, acting, set, everything was so well done. Such a bargain for a night’s first class entertainment!” – Audience Member

Tina Thronson, Bobby Welsh and John Coscia in the Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
L to R: Tina Thronson, Bobby Welsh and John Coscia in the Providence Players’ “Other Desert Cities”

“I was in VA last week-end and attended opening night of “Other Desert Cities”.  Your cast did a fabulous job–the humor and pain of the Wyeth family story was beautifully presented.  Your set was very bright, sunny and very Palm Springs! Thanks for an enjoyable evening in a beautiful and comfortable theatre with an accessible parking area.” – Audience Member

John Coscia as Wyeth family patriarch Lyman Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo By Chip Gertzog Providence Players
John Coscia as Wyeth family patriarch “Lyman”
Bobby Welsh as Trip and Andra Whitt as Brooke are compelling and natural on stage in Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Bobby Welsh as Trip and Andra Whitt as Brooke are compelling and natural on stage in “Other Desert Cities”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Click Here: About Other Desert Cities: The Play, the Cast and Other Production Information

 

Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman in Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo By Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Don’t Miss “Other Desert Cities”: Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman

Recently, one of the hottest tickets on Broadway and a 2012 Tony nominee, Other Desert Cities opens on the Providence Players stage at the James Lee Community Center Theater through March 28th. This Pulitzer Prize Finalist play by Jon Robin Baitz is a funny and smart drama filled with witty repartee that both dazzles and decimates. It is beautifully written and is full of both humorous and deeply felt moments. The New York Times called Other Desert Cities “the best new play on Broadway,” and audiences everywhere are finding it both entertaining and insightful. This witty and thought provoking family drama strikes the perfect balance between comedy and drama and has been called “smart, supremely entertaining and richly satisfying”.

ONLINE TICKETS FOR PPF’S OTHER DESERT CITIES ON SALE HERE (Best Seat Selection)

 Reserve Tickets By Email at providenceplayerstickets@cox.net

By Phone at 703-425-6782

Or Purchase at the Door

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd

Audiences Love, Critics Praise “Other Desert Cities” – Thur, Fri, Sat at 7:30 PM Final Sunday Matinee 2 PM – Through March 28th

The Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players

Just Two Weekends Remain

The Providence Players Present Other Desert Cities

By Jon Robin Baitz – Directed by Tina Thronson

James Lee Community Center Theater  2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA

Tickets On Sale Here

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

REMAINING PERFORMANCES

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. March 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28

Final Sunday Matinee 2:00 p.m. March 22

REVIEWS:

“Skilled, seasoned actors make this beautifully written play a laugh-filled, enjoyable evening that you will be talking about for some time.Laughter in Other Desert Cities is frequent and well-earned.The Providence Players find both delightful comedy and poignant drama in this beautifully written piece. Bobby Welsh is terrific as Trip Wyeth.. Silda Grauman is played energetically and with great humor by Barbara Gertzog. The set is excellent [and the] Lighting Design by Jason Hamrick was strong. Don’t delay, and get your tickets now to Providence Players of Fairfax’s superb Other Desert Cities.”  from DcMetrotheaterArts Chuck Leonard

Seriously! The script, acting, set, everything was so well done. Such a bargain for a night’s first class entertainment!” – Audience Member

“I was in VA last week-end and attended opening night of “Other Desert Cities”.  Your cast did a fabulous job–the humor and pain of the Wyeth family story was beautifully presented.  Your set was very bright, sunny and very Palm Springs! Thanks for an enjoyable evening in a beautiful and comfortable theatre with an accessible parking area.” – Audience Member

 About Other Desert Cities: The Play, the Cast and Other Production Information

 

Recently, one of the hottest tickets on Broadway and a 2012 Tony nominee, Other Desert Cities opens on the Providence Players stage at the James Lee Community Center Theater through March 28th. This Pulitzer Prize Finalist play by Jon Robin Baitz is a funny and smart drama filled with witty repartee that both dazzles and decimates. It is beautifully written and is full of both humorous and deeply felt moments. The New York Times called Other Desert Cities “the best new play on Broadway,” and audiences everywhere are finding it both entertaining and insightful. This witty and thought provoking family drama strikes the perfect balance between comedy and drama and has been called “smart, supremely entertaining and richly satisfying”.

ONLINE TICKETS FOR PPF’S OTHER DESERT CITIES ON SALE HERE (Best Seat Selection)

 Reserve Tickets By Email at providenceplayerstickets@cox.net

By Phone at 703-425-6782

Or Purchase at the Door

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA

Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog
Scenes from the Providence Players “Other Desert Cities” On Stage Through March 28 2015

Opening Weekend! “Other Desert Cities” Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM Sunday at 2:PM

OPENING NIGHT! – Great Seats Available

The Providence Players open Other Desert Cities at the James Lee Community Center Theater this weekend through March 28th

Tickets Here – Order Online for Best Seat Selection

 

The Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo By Chip Gertzog Providence Players

 

Performance Dates And Times

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m.
March 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28
Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m.
March 15 & 22

The James Lee Community Center Theater  2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA 22042

Tickets On Sale Here

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language.

Recently, one of the hottest tickets on Broadway and a 2012 Tony nominee, Other Desert Cities opens on the Providence Players stage at the James Lee Community Center Theater this Friday, March 13th and runs until March 28th. This Pulitzer Prize Finalist play by Jon Robin Baitz is a funny and smart drama filled with witty repartee that both dazzles and decimates. It is beautifully written and is full of both humorous and deeply felt moments. The New York Times called Other Desert Cities “the best new play on Broadway,” and audiences everywhere are finding it both entertaining and insightful. This witty and thought provoking family drama strikes the perfect balance between comedy and drama and has been called “smart, supremely entertaining and richly satisfying”.

Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The Providence Players production of Other Desert Cities on stage March 13-28

Other Desert Cities is set in Palm Springs, California over the Christmas holidays and centers on the powerful Wyeth family. Family patriarch, Lyman, played by John Coscia, is an actor-turned-politician during the Reagan era. Matriarch Polly, played by director Tina Thronson, is a former screenwriter. The couple is set to celebrate the holidays with their adult children, daughter Brooke (played by Andra Whitt) and son Trip (Bobby Welsh). Without informing her parents, Brooke, a once-promising novelist, has written a memoir exposing painful family secrets. Trip, who is the producer of a TV reality series, tries to stay out of the crossfire as their alcoholic aunt, Polly’s sister Silda Grauman (played by Barbra Gertzog), encourages Brooke. In a series of confrontations, the Wyeths sift through conflicting memories of the past and face serious choices about how to go forward.

Jon Robin Baitz, the author of this funny and searing play is no stranger to family drama having created TV’s successful series Brothers & Sisters. His other plays include The Substance of Fire, A Fair Country, Ten Unknowns, Mizlansky/Zilinsky, Three Hotels, and The Paris Letter. He is a Pulitzer Prize finalist for Other Desert Cities, Drama Desk winner, Humanitas winner, a Guggenheim and an NEA Fellow. Other Desert Cities received near universal acclaim for both its off-Broadway debut at Lincoln Center and its subsequent move to Broadway where it garnered multiple Tony nominations including Best Play in 2012.

Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Andra Whitt as Brooke Wyeth with Barbara Gertzog (Silda Grauman) and John Coscia (Lyman Wyeth) in a scene from PPF’s “Other Desert Cities” opening this Friday March 13th.

Director, Tina Thronson has assembled a cast of some of PPF’s most talented veterans for this production. After auditioning nearly 30 actors, casting the show and starting rehearsals, her choice for Polly had to drop out of the show for day job reasons. Now Tina finds herself wearing two hats, as actor (having stepped into the role of Polly) as well as director. Far from the original plan for the production, she is wearing both hats with great distinction.

 

 

 

Andra Whitt as Brooke Wyeth Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Andra Whitt as Brooke Wyeth

Andra Whitt as Brook Wyeth

Andra has moved effortlessly between outstanding onstage performances and backstage roles.  Onstage for PPF, she has performed as Claire (Rumors, 2014), Essie (You Can’t Take it With You, 2012), Terry (Sideman, 2012) and Sally Cato (Auntie Mame, 2011), in each role to great acclaim and entertaining effect. She has served as properties and stage manager/crew for PPF.  Andra also serves on the PPF Board of Directors and is an indispensable member of the Company, giving her time and skills in some way to each production, for this one, the audience gets once again to see her in another stellar performance.

Tina Thronson as Polly Wyeth Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Tina Thronson as Polly Wyeth

Tina Thronson as Polly Wyeth

Tina has graced the PPF stage often and has directed many of the Company’s most outstanding productions. Over her 16 years with PPF, she has had lead and featured roles as Sabrina (The Skin of our Teeth, 2002), Mary Haines (The Women, 2005), multiple roles in It’s a Wonderful Life, a Live Radio Play (2010), Patsy (Sideman 2012) and was featured in Cash on Delivery (2004), and You Can’t Take it With You (2013).  Tina has directed the PPF Productions of Born Yesterday, 12 Angry Men, The Man Who Came to Dinner (which won two WATCH awards), Steel Magnolias, The Laramie Project and Dinner with Friends, spanning more than a decade of PPF theater history.  Tina has also performed many backstage roles with distinction and is a longtime PPF Board Member and Past President.

John Coscia as Lyman Wyeth Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
John Coscia as Lyman Wyeth

John Coscia as Lyman Wyeth

John has been seen often on the PPF stage, performing with great distinction in many award winning plays as lead and featured actor.  Favorite roles include (but are not limited to)  Grandpa (You Can’t Take it With You, 1998 and 2012), Harry Brock (Born Yesterday, 2002), Juror #8 (Twelve Angry Men, 2005), Tom (I Never Sang for my Father, 2006), Kit Carson (Watch Nomination, The Time of your Life, 2006), Peppino (Saturday, Sunday, Monday, 2007), Gal (Rough Crossing, 2008), The Father et al (The Laramie Project, 2010), Joe (The Shadow Box, 2011), and Gene (Sideman 2012).  John has been nominated and won many WATCH awards for his acting, set design and set construction with PPF.  In 2014, John marked his directorial debut with the play, Of Mice and Men, which has been WATCH nominated for many awards, including best play and best director.  He is also an original and current member of the PPF Board of Directors.

Bobby Welsh as Trip Wyeth Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo By Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Bobby Welsh as Trip Wyeth

Bobby Welsh as Trip Wyeth

Bobby has engaged PPF audiences in prominent featured roles for the last five years and has created an indelible impression in each in his character portrayals.  He has been featured as Perry (Waiting in the Wings, 2010), Ito (Auntie Mame, 2011), Father (Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2012), Jonesy (Sideman, 2012), and Whit (Of Mice and Men, 2014).  His portrayals have been thoughtful and authentic in varied character roles and he has greatly enhanced each play he has performed in for the audience and his fellow actors.  Previous community theater roles include Sancho Panza, Man of La Mancha, and The Mysterious Man, Into the Woods.  Bobby has also been indispensable in production roles for PPF, backstage and in the tech booth.

Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman

Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman

Barbara has performed many roles for PPF, including comic turns as a wily bank customer (The Good Doctor, 2004), a scheming fortune teller (Elmira, Good Help is So Hard to Murder, 2007), the mean cousin (Chick, Crimes of the Heart, 2003), a snobbish matron (Mrs. Upson, Auntie Mame, 2011), a British dominatrix (Mrs. Cowper, Cash on Delivery, 2003) and a lusty landlady (Is He Dead, 2013).  She was also featured as Billie Dawn (Born Yesterday, 2002), Maggie Cutler (The Man Who Came to Dinner, 2004), and Rosa Peppino (Saturday, Sunday, Monday, 2007).  Barbara has also directed the PPF productions of Heaven Can Wait, The Women and The Shadow Box (Ruby Griffith “Best Play” award winner and WATCH nominated Best Play) and performed numerous other production roles for the company.

The Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players

The Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players

 

 

The Other Desert Cities set will, once again, wow audiences and was designed and built by John Coscia. John was nominated for WATCH awards for design and construction of two sets in 2014 and has won numerous WATCH awards for his set work for PPF. Ingrid Helvig David has brought her outstanding design talents in decorating the set (having previously decorated for PPF’s production of All My Sons and Auntie Mame) with PPF veterans Robbie Snow and Beth Harrison (both WATCH recognized designers) handling costumes and make-up/hair design respectively. Jason Hamrick will be making his lighting design debut for the production but is no stranger to the tech side of PPF productions having worked on many shows as he has followed actress wife Andra Whitt (Brooke Wyeth) through various shows. Properties are being handled by Julie Janson and Beckie McNair. Mike Donahue, a talented actor, director, combat choreographer and stage manager has served the production in the dual roles of Assistant Director and Stage Manager. He has been the invaluable second set of eyes on the show as Tina stepped up onto the boards from the director’s chair. Mike Mattheisen has produced the show for the Providence Players.

The Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence PlayersIf you love a smartly written, beautifully acted and stage new American play, then PPF’s Other Desert Cities is the ideal choice and a great way to spend an evening losing yourself in the words and characters of this terrific play.

 

ONLINE TICKETS FOR PPF’S OTHER DESERT CITIES ON SALE HERE

 Reserve Tickets By Email at providenceplayerstickets@cox.net

By Phone at 703-425-6782

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language

James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA

The Cast of the Providence Players' "Other Desert Cities" Photo By Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The Cast of the Providence Players’ “Other Desert Cities”

Pre-Opening Press: Providence Players Open “Other Desert Cities” This Friday!

The Providence Players open Other Desert Cities at the James Lee Community Center Theater this Friday, March 13th through March 28th

Read the Connection Newspapers Preview Article Here

Read DCMetroTheaterArts.com Preview Article Here

 

Tickets Here – Order Online for Best Seat Selection

 

PPF Other Desert Cities Montage 3-11-15

Performance Dates And Times

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m.
March 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28
Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m.
March 15 & 22

All Performances at:

The James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA 22042

Tickets On Sale Here

Not for young children- mature themes and strong language.

.

“Other Desert Cities” Opens This Friday- March 13-28 – Order Your Tickets Now!

“A funny and smart drama that both dazzles and decimates”

PPF ODC 00045Recently, one of the hottest tickets on Broadway and a 2012 Tony nominee, Other Desert Cities opens on the Providence Players stage at the James Lee Community Center Theater March 13-28th. This latest play from Pulitzer Prize finalist Jon Robin Baitz (creator of TV’s Brothers & Sisters) is a funny and smart drama filled with witty repartee that both dazzles and decimates. Brooke Wyeth returns to her politically conservative parents’ glamorous Palm Springs home to spend the holidays with them. But the warm desert air turns chilly when news of her upcoming memoir threatens to revive the most painful chapter of the family’s history. Perception and reality battle love and mercy as old family wounds are reopened, childhood memories are tested, and the Wyeth clan learns that some secrets can’t stay buried forever. Full of both humorous and deeply felt moments, Other Desert Cities brings dysfunctional family drama to new heights. The New York Times called Other Desert Cities “the best new play on Broadway,” and audiences everywhere are finding it both entertaining and insightful. Not for young children- mature themes and strong language.

Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman in Providence Players Other Desert Cities - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Barbara Gertzog as Silda Grauman
Bobby Welsh as Trip Wyeth and John Coscia as Lyman Wyeth in Providence Players Other Desert Cities Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Platers
L to R: Bobby Welsh as Trip Wyeth and John Coscia as Lyman Wyeth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This witty and thought provoking family drama strikes the perfect balance between comedy and drama and has been called “smart, supremely entertaining and richly satisfying”.

The Cast of the Providence Players Other Desert Cities - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The Cast of “Other Desert Cities” (L to R) Bobby Welsh, Andra Whitt, Barbara Gertzog, John Coscia and Tina Thronson (Click on Photo to Enlarge)
Andra Whitt and Tina Thronson in The Providence Players "Other Desert Cities" March 13 - 28, 2015 - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
The Providence Players “Other Desert Cities” March 13 – 28, 2015
Bobby Welsh and Tina Thronson in  the Providence Players "Other Desert Cities"  - Photo By Chip Gertzog Providence Platyers
Bobby Welsh and Tina Thronson in “Other Desert Cities”
Andra Whitt and John Coscia in Providence Players' "Other Desert Cities" - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Andra Whitt and John Coscia in PPF’s “Other Desert Cities”
The Providence Players Other Desert Cities - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
“Other Desert Cities” – Thurs, Fri, Sat at 7:30 PM Sun 2 PM – March 13 thru March 28th
Barbara Gertzog and Tina Thronson on stage in Other Desert Cities - Photo by Chip Gertzog Providence Players
Barbara Gertzog and Tina Thronson on stage in “Other Desert Cities”

Providence Players Other Desert Cities 900 by 520

Performance Dates And Times

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m.
March 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28
Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m.
March 15 & 22

All Performances at:

The James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church VA 22042