With a fresh coat of snow on the ground in the DC Metro area, the Providence Players are preparing to whisk you away to the warmer climes of the Palm Springs desert. PPF is less than a month away from opening Other Desert Cities a riveting new play that was nominated for a 2012 Tony Award for Best Play and was a Finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize. 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 Providence Players opens Other Desert Cities on March 13^th for a three week run. Tickets are on sale now here.

Let’s meet the cast:

Polly Wyeth, portrayed by Tina Thronson

Tina has been seen often on the PPF Stage 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 from 2002 to 2014 of PPF theater history.  Tina has also performed many backstage roles with distinction and is a longtime PPF Board Member and Past President.  In Other Desert Cities, Tina is wearing two hats, as actor and director, although not the original plan for the production, she is wearing both with great distinction.

Polly, wife of Lyman, mother of Brooke and Trip, and sister to Silda, is a bright, sharp, funny woman with class and a strong sense of who she is.  As the family members relate to each other, and as with most mothers, there is no mistaking her importance to the dynamics of this family.

Lyman Wyeth, portrayed by John Coscia

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.

Lyman Wyeth, family patriarch, loving husband and father, is a man who describes himself as having traditional American family values, and who has had much success in his life, while remaining true to the value he places on his family relationships.

Brooke Wyeth, portrayed by Andra Whitt

Andra has fluctuated between onstage performances and backstage roles.  Onstage, 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.

Mercurial, smart, funny, engaging, Brooke Wyeth can be seen as the family keeper of memories whose journey to understanding her relationship with her family is an essential part of the story for her and for the audience to enjoy and experience.

Trip Wyeth, portrayed by Bobby Welsh

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.

Trip Wyeth, a loving son and brother, is a character of many dual qualities, well educated, under achieving, fun loving with some personal demons, who has a good sense of life’s priorities and the good sense to remind his family of them every once in a while.  Every family needs a Trip, to keep them grounded in the here and now.

Silda Grauman, portrayed by Barbara Gertzog

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.

Aunt Silda is a character who has experienced many hard knocks, most of her own making.  She is smart, irritating, knowing in a self-deluded way, full of hard edges, humor and love in her own Silda style.  Spending some time with the Wyeths and Aunt Silda will entertain, amuse, and provide an evening of great theater.

Other Desert Cities is a great way to spend an evening losing yourself in the words and characters of a terrific play.  ODC has multi-faceted characters and is the story of a family whose relationships and revelations will be entertaining and riveting.

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

Last evening (Sunday January 18, 2015), the Washington Area Community Theater Honors (WATCH) organization announced the 15th Annual 2014 WATCH AWARDS Nominations for community theater productions mounted in calendar year 2014. There are currently 31 member companies in WATCH from throughout the DC, Maryland and Virginia area. A  total of 111 productions (34 musicals, 77 plays) were adjudicated in 2014. The Providence Players have been a member of WATCH since 2004.

The Washington Area Theatre Community Honors (WATCH) is an organization founded for the adjudication and presentation of annual awards recognizing artistic and technical excellence in community theatre throughout the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area, and that these honors will:

• Foster and encourage the growth of community theater
• Promote and enhance the image of community theater; and
• Educate and inform the general public about the theatrical opportunities provided by the member theaters.

The Providence Players have been honored with a total of 19 WATCH nominations for 2014 including two each in the Outstanding Play (“Best Play”) and Outstanding Direction of a Play (“Best Director”) categories. Prior to these nominations, PPF had previously garnered 75 nominations and 18 awards since joining WATCH with some 69% of all PPF productions having been honored with one or more WATCH nominations and awards.

Congratulations to all our nominees and to all PPF members who contributed to the success of these and all PPF productions during 2014. Congratulations as well, to all our colleagues in the 31 DMV WATCH member community theater companies. 2014 was an outstanding year in Washington area community theater with a huge number of outstanding productions and hundreds of wonderful performances and technical achievements.

PPF Production of Rumors – Spring Production 2014 – 8 Nominations

Outstanding Play – Rumors

Outstanding Direction of a Play – Liz Mykietyn

Outstanding Cameo in a Play – Eric Jones as “Officer Welch”

Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play – Don Myers as “Lenny Ganz”

Outstanding Hair Design in a Play – Beth Harrison & Robbie Snow

Outstanding Set Construction in a Play – John Coscia

Outstanding Set Design in a Play – John Coscia

Outstanding Set Painting in a Play – Craig Geoffrion

PPF Production of Of Mice and Men – Fall  Production 2014 – 11 Nominations

Outstanding Play – Of Mice and Men

Outstanding Direction of a Play – John Coscia

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Play – Kyle Keene as “Lennie”

Outstanding Properties in a Play – Julie Janson & Andra Whitt

Outstanding Set Decoration in a Play – Lisa Church & John Coscia

Outstanding Set Design in a Play – John Coscia

Outstanding Set Painting in a Play – Lisa Church

Outstanding Light Design in a Play – Chip Gertzog

Outstanding Sound Design in a Play – Chip Gertzog

Outstanding Special Effects – Julie Janson, Beth Harrison, Andra Whitt

Outstanding Stage Combat Choreography – Mike Donahue

The full list of WATCH nominations may be found on the DCMetrotheaterArts.com website or in PDF format on The WATCH website.

Join us for our next outstanding production – “Other Desert Cities” which opens March 13, 2015 and runs through March 28, 2015

Tickets On Sale Here

Very few years can be seen as more emblematic of the growth, development and evolution of the Providence Players as was 2014. Our 10^th year at the James Lee Community Center Theater and our 17^th season as a company, PPF shined in 2014 with four outstanding audience and critically acclaimed productions indicative of our commitment to artistic excellence as well as our commitment to creative expression and personal fulfillment for our company members. Moreover, we successfully continued our commitment to the broader community in many ways in 2014.  Join us as we take a brief look back on ’14 and a look forward to what’s next in 2015 AND how you can be a part of the PPF experience!

But, first things first – We thank and honor all of you!  We could not do it without you – our patrons, donors and members.  Again this year, we offer you a chance to support the company with a tax-deductible contribution. Ticket sales alone cannot cover all of our costs and we rely on our generous donors to help make all of this possible. New for 2015 is the ability to make a secure tax-deductible contribution online if you choose. Many of you have donated in 2014 and we thank you for your patronage and support of Providence Players and we hope it will continue in 2015.  Make a Donation Online Today

Last January, we opened calendar 2014 with the news that PPF had garnered seven WATCH award nominations for calendar 2013 productions with our production of Is He Dead?  receiving six nominations (and one award) from the Washington Area Theatre Community Honors. WATCH Nominations for 2014 will be announced later this January.

Our 2014 winter production of John Guare’s The House of Blue Leaves  marked Michael Donahue’s PPF directorial debut.

DcMetroTheaterArts said “Well directed by Michael P. Donahue and performed by a super cast.. Providence Players of Fairfax once again offers audiences a chance to revisit a classic and provides a funny, yet poignant production, featuring fine performances by a very talented cast. Don’t miss it.”   DCMTA Full Review Here – Falls Church News Press Here – Connection Newspapers Here

Audiences loved the production and it was honored by a runner-up designation from the Ruby Griffith awards for Outstanding Achievement in a Play. Recently, DcMetroTheaterArts further recognized the play with six ‘Best of 2014″ Awards:

PPF’s The House of Blue Leaves Best of 2014

 DCMTA Best Plays in 2014 – The House of Blue Leaves

Michael P. Donahue Best Director of a Play – Community Theater

Acting Honors:

Best Scenic Design – John Coscia

Our 2014 spring production of Neil Simon’s Rumors was also a directorial debut, this time for Liz Mykietyn.

DCMetroTheaterArts.com reviewer Francine Schwartz echoed audience sentiments with a GLOWING  5 Star “Its’ A Blast” review.  She sums it up with “Providence Players of Fairfax’s Rumors is a blast! Rumor has it that you will have a belly-laughed filled time in the theatre. And rumor has it that Mr. Simon would be beaming! The Providence Players of Fairfax wring every possible laugh out of it. The zingers fly everywhere, and Director Liz Mykietyn and her hilarious and hard-working cast make sure those funny one-liners land-and land they do. At the performance I attended, the audience was howling! So if you need a good laugh or several dozen-make your way to the James Lee Community Center.” DCMTA Full Review Here – Falls Church News Press Here – Connection Newspapers Here

Also an audience favorite, DcMetroTheaterArts further recognized the play with no less than ten ‘Best of 2014″ Awards:

PPF’s Rumors Best of 2014

DCMTA Best Plays in 2014 – Rumors

Liz Mykietyn Best Director of a Play – Community Theater

Acting Honors:

Best Costume Design – Robbie Snow and Courtney Fonnesbeck

Best Lighting Design – Chip Gertzog

Best Scenic Design – John Coscia

Our 2014 fall production of John Steinbeck’s classic Of Mice and Men was yet another directorial debut for PPF.  John Coscia, multiple WATCH award winning actor, set designer and one of the company’s founders, took the directorial reins for the first time and touched audiences and critics alike.

In their five star review of the production, DCMetroTheaterArts said “Providence Players of Fairfax’s Of Mice and Men is a superb production. I encourage anyone, especially if you have not had the chance to see the stage production of the show, to take a trip out to see it. The top-notch design and direction by John Coscia, his designers and team of actors, make this a ‘must-see’ impressive production.” DCMTA Full Review Here – Connection Newspapers Here

DcMetroTheaterArts further recognized the play with five ‘Best of 2014″ Awards:

PPF’s Of Mice and Men Best of 2014

DCMTA Best Plays in 2014 – Of Mice and Men

John Coscia Best Director of a Play – Community Theater

Acting Honors:

We closed a diverse and entertaining 2014 in December with our holiday season offering of  The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the C.S Lewis classic adapted by award winning playwright Joseph Robinette. Veteran PPF holiday show director Brian O’Connor returned with another outstanding family production. As always, Brian’s shows are rich in inventiveness with strong performances and an outstanding directorial touch. Once again, PPF partnered with The Young Hearts Foundation on the holiday production to raise money to improve the lives of young people and their families affected by long-term illness. And once again, the production was both a critical and audience hit.

DCMetroTheaterArts said “FIVE STARS! “As a treat for the entire family, or an early Christmas gift, there is none better than C.S. Lewis’ classic tale of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe now playing at Providence Players of Fairfax…Providence Players of Fairfax’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a ‘must see’ production this holiday season that the entire family will enjoy.”   DCMTA Full Review Here – Connection Newspapers Here

DcMetroTheaterArts further recognized the play with eight ‘Best of 2014″ Awards:

PPF’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Best of 2014

DCMTA Best Plays in 2014 – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

 Brian O’Connor Best Director of a Play – Community Theater

Acting Honors:

Best Scenic Design – Brian O’Connor

Best Costume Design – Robbie Snow 

Best Lighting Design – Jimmy Gertzog and Jason Hamrick

Four out of four productions garnered DCMTA’s Best of 2014 Best Play honors and all four directors were recognized for their artistic achievements. Sixteen actors and 9 designers were also recognized by DCMTA for “Best Of” achievements. Coupled with the audience reception of these productions, 2014 was an outstanding year artistically for PPF.

Strengthening Our Link to the Community

We continue to develop strong ties to the community, and are so proud of the organizations we work with.  Here are just a few of the wonderful offerings we provide students and underserved members of our community:

Scholarship Program – Working with community leaders, PPF will again offer awards to students who have demonstrated leadership within their respective theater programs or contributed to the theater arts in some way and plan to do so in the future.

Free Tickets – We continue to promote our free ticket program to community organizations that reach underserved members of our community.  We ask for your help in identifying reputable organizations that serve those who may be unable to afford the price of admission.  Please send an email to providenceplayers@cox.net with your ideas or suggestions.

Free Previews – We remain committed to and continue to grow our preview audience of students, teachers and parents.  This special Thursday performance (the night before opening) is free and helps encourage our young people to experience live theater.  Attendees participate in a post-show discussion with the director, actors and production team as well as a backstage tour.

As we noted above, PPF again joined up with The Young Hearts Foundation, to create the magical and meaningful world of Narnia on the James Lee stage and provide a quality holiday production in support of those young people in our community struggling with leukemia.  It is unfortunate that we know so many who are in a fight for their life, and Young Hearts is there to help.  Prior to the December production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (LWW), PPF and Young Hearts together had leveraged more than $16,000 toward the cause.  With the tremendous audience success of LWW  this year, and with half of all net proceeds from the holiday production once again supporting the Young Hearts important work, that figure will grow.  PPF remains committed to its community, and this continuing collaboration is just one small way of demonstrating it.

We are honored to have been recognized with a “2014 Best of Special Award” by DcMetroTheaterArts.com for our community commitment. DCMTA said:

“We honor Providence Players of Fairfax not only for its high-quality productions, but also for its community outreach with its Theater Community Inclusion Project. “To serve, providing quality, affordable theater to existing patrons while building new audiences for the future, particularly youth and underserved communities.” They provide concessions for each mainstage production, where the proceeds from concession sales are donated to that organization. They provide free tickets to students and their teachers and families and guests and work local non-profit partners- including Young Hearts  and Capital Caring. In fact, their current production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is raising money for Young Hearts). We salute Providence Players of Fairfax for their fine work and for their generosity.

A Stronger Financial Base Today and for the Future

The company remains in a strong financial position.  Again, the board’s focus on artistic quality and sound financial management helped create a small surplus at the end of the fiscal year, June 30, 2014. The generous support of our patrons and donors helps make that possible.  A copy of the company’s financials can be found on our website at www.providenceplayers.org.

More Great Shows to Come

We are proud of our successes this past year, and have an exciting season remaining for 2015:

OPENS March 13, 2015 – Order Tickets Online Now

March 13 – March 28, 2015

Other Desert Cities, by John Robin Baitz and directed by Tina Thronson.  In this searing comedy-drama, young writer Brooke Wyeth returns home to Palm Springs to celebrate Christmas with her politically-connected parents, and announces her plans to publish a tell-it-all memoir of crucial events in the family’s past.  This riveting new play was nominated for a 2012 Tony Award for Best Play and a Finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize.

OPENS May 29, 2015 – Order Tickets Online Now

May 29 – June 13, 2015

The Glass Mendacity, by Maureen Morley and Tom Willmorth, and directed by Jayne Victor.  A hilarious comedy that parodies some of Tennessee Williams’ 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 Williams’ work, don’t fret. These off-kilter and dysfunctional family shenanigans can be enjoyed by all!

And, we will be announcing our 2015- 2016 season in the near future!

Becoming a Part of the PPF Experience

Once again, we thank you for a wonderful 2014 and we look forward to seeing you in this new year.  As we say JOIN US! On Stage, Back Stage, or In the Audience! We could not do it without you – our patrons, donors and members.

NEW ONLINE DONATION LINK

(New for 2015, we now offer you a chance to support the company with a tax-deductible contribution that can be made securely online.   Ticket sales alone cannot cover all of our costs                                                                                                       and we rely on our generous donors to help make all of this possible. Thanks again for your patronage and support of Providence Players, and we look forward to seeing you at the theater soon)

MEMBERSHIP INFO LINK

AUDITION INFO LINK

DCMetrotheaterarts.com honors four (4) Providence Players’ productions and sixteen (16) performances in their “Best of” 2014″ series! Congrats to all honored in DCMetrotheaterarts’ shout outs and to all the other great PPF performances of 2014!

Best Directors in a Play

• Mike Donahue, The House of Blue Leaves
• Liz Mykietyn, Rumors
• John Coscia, Of Mice and Men
• Brian O’Connor, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

Best Actor in a Play

• Mike Donahue as George Mitchell in Of Mice and Men 
• Adam Downs as Artie Shaughnessy in The House of Blue Leaves
• Bill Fleming as Asian in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
• Kyle Keene as Lennie Small in Of Mice and Men

• Beth Whitehead as Bananas in The House of Blue Leaves

Best Featured Actor in a Play

• Roberto “Rob” Cuevas as Fenris Ulf in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
• David James as Candy in Of Mice and Men
• Eric Jones as Officer Welch in Rumors
• Zell Murphy as Glenn Cooper in Rumors
• Don Myers as Lenny Ganz in Rumors

Best Featured Actress in a Play

• Beth Hughes-Brown as Cookie Cusack in Rumors
• Lauren Sullivan as Officer Pudney in Rumors
• Jayne Victor as Bunny in The House of Blue Leaves
• Roxanne Waite as Cassie Cooper in Rumors
• Beth Gilles-Whitehead as The White Witch in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
• Andra Whitt as Claire Ganz in Rumors

Audiences Love! – Five Stars from DcMetroTheaterArts!

Last Five Performances this Week

FIVE STARS! “As a treat for the entire family, or an early Christmas gift, there is none better than C.S. Lewis’ classic tale of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe now playing at Providence Players of Fairfax…Providence Players of Fairfax’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a ‘must see’ production this holiday season that the entire family will enjoy.” Audrey Thornton, DCMTA

 The Providence Players stage C.S. Lewis Family Classic for the 2014 Holiday Season – Great Theater for a Great Cause – Final Week!

The Lion,the Witch and the Wardrobe

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

The Providence Players (PPF) present The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe the C.S Lewis classic adapted by award winning playwright Joseph Robinette at the James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic that has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years will is directed for PPF by Brian O’Connor. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is on stage for just five more performances, Thursday thru Sunday thru December 21^st.

Great Theater for A Great Cause

The Providence Players and The Young Hearts Foundation are, once again, proud to bring you outstanding live theater for a great cause.   Half of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation that strives to improve the lives of young people affected by long-term illness.  For the past two years, over $16,000 was generated to support this important cause, and PPF hopes to increase its support in 2014.

Directed by Brian O’Connor Produced by Prince McLaughlin and David Whitehead

Four children, evacuated from London during World War II, explore their new country home. Lucy, the youngest, stumbles upon a curious wardrobe, climbs in and discovers a magical forest in the land of Narnia. The land is under the power of a White Witch, and soon Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy must lead an entire kingdom in a fight for good. This popular and heart-warming tale is full of mystical creatures, talking animals and Aslan, the great lion and ruler of Narnia.  A holiday treat that is good for the entire family.

Co-Produced by Providence Players and The Young Hearts

Nine performances including 4 Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as a Thursday evening performance in addition to Friday and Saturday evenings.

About the Play: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a timeless and enchanting tale that has been a favorite of children and adults for decades, was written by C.S. Lewis in 1950. This stage adaptation brings all of the magic and majesty of Lewis’ Narnia to the stage and has been neatly condensed by award-winning playwright Joseph Robinette. The adventures of four children who inadvertently wander into an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia are faithfully recreated, along with the benevolence and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, and his struggle with the White Witch. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are the four otherwise ordinary children until Lucy discovers a wardrobe that is really a gateway to the enchanted land of Narnia. The evil White Witch has cursed the land with eternal winter and turned many of her enemies to stone. With the arrival of the children, the land begins to change, mur­murs of a prophecy surface, and rumors soon spread that Aslan, the beloved lion king, is going to return. All the memorable episodes from the story are represented in this exciting dramatization: the temptation of Edmund by the witch, the slaying of the evil wolf by Peter, the guidance of Aslan as the children are crowned the four new rulers of Narnia, and more. The supporting characters are also here: the unicorn, the centaur and other forest animals, along with Father Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. Beaver and Tumnus the Faun. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is truly a story of love, faith, courage and giving, and the triumph of good over evil. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years.

“Of Mice and Men”

Opening weekend audience reaction: “A classic done with class!”    “We loved this brilliant production of a timeless play – its a don’t miss performance at Providence Players in Falls Church!”   “…it was fabulous! Great casting, beautiful sets, and perfectly directed by John Coscia…”    “It was amazing! Top notch acting presenting a difficult story… Kudos to everyone involved in this production!”

Five Star Review from DCMetrotheaterarts.com

DCMetrotheaterarts.com reviewer Anne Vandercook says:

[Complete review and extensive performing arts coverage on DCMetrotheaterarts.com]

“Providence Players of Fairfax’s Of Mice and Men is a superb production. I encourage anyone, especially if you have not had the chance to see the stage production of the show, to take a trip out to see it. The top-notch design and direction by John Coscia, his designers and team of actors, make this a ‘must-see’ impressive production.

Coscia… assembles an enviable cast to play out the timeless tale. Leading the cast are Mike Donahue as George Mitchell and Kyle Keene as Lennie Small.

[Donahue] has moments of brilliance as he goes from brooding, cynical working man to fearless protector and compassionate care taker to his friend and companion, Lennie. I was particularly enthralled by his dream like storytelling to the childlike, Lennie. Keene is equally spell-bounding as the gentle giant, Lenny Small. Keene is perfectly cast as the caring yet clumsy mentally challenged man. His wide eyes stares as he dreams about his future and “living on the fat of the land” that he plans to purchase with George are very authentic and flawlessly constructed. The pair interact well, it was a pleasure to watch them throughout the show.

Joining the pair in their quest for a new life is the endearing one-handed Candy (David James). James delivers a powerful performance [and] takes us on a roller coaster ride of emotions, he evokes a raw sense of compassion and had me rooting for him as he had hopes of a new life in his grasp. Equally outstanding as the dignified and practical jerkline skinner is Ian Wade as Slim. The talented cast is rounded out by Mike Mattheisen as the stoic Boss, Mike Dempsey as the napoleon complex inflicted Curly, Julie Janson as the temptress Curly’s wife, Bobby Welsh and Craig Geoffrion as the farm workers, and Stephen Olbina as Crooks. All of the supporting cast members serve the play well.

Director John Coscia and the Providence Players shine in their current production of the melancholy story [Of Mice and Men].”

The final (closing) matinee of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” tomorrow,  Sunday 12/21 at 2:00 PM, is Sold Out. Tickets will not be available at the door. If you have tickets, be sure to get to the theater by 1:30 – 1:40 for best possible seating. 

Tickets for tonight’s show – Saturday 12/20 at 7:30 PM Here

Audiences Love! – Five Stars from DcMetroTheaterArts!

FIVE STARS! “As a treat for the entire family, or an early Christmas gift, there is none better than C.S. Lewis’ classic tale of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe now playing at Providence Players of Fairfax…Providence Players of Fairfax’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a ‘must see’ production this holiday season that the entire family will enjoy.” Audrey Thornton, DCMTA

The Providence Players stage C.S. Lewis Family Classic for the 2014 Holiday Season – Great Theater for a Great Cause – Final Week!

The Lion,the Witch and the Wardrobe

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

The Providence Players (PPF) present The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe the C.S Lewis classic adapted by award winning playwright Joseph Robinette at the James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic that has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years will is directed for PPF by Brian O’Connor. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is on stage for just five more performances, Thursday thru Sunday thru December 21^st.

 The Providence Players stage C.S. Lewis Family Classic for the 2014 Holiday Season – Great Theater for a Great Cause – Opens This Friday!

The Lion,the Witch and the Wardrobe

Tickets On Sale – Online Here

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

This Friday, The Providence Players (PPF) will open The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe the C.S Lewis classic adapted by award winning playwright Joseph Robinette at the James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic that has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years will is directed for PPF by Brian O’Connor. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will run for two weeks from December 12 through December 21^st for nine performances included four Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as evening performances on Thursday Friday and Saturday.

Fabulous Live Theater for the Whole Family!

SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. December 12, 13, 18, 19 & 20 Saturday & Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m. December 13, 14, 20 & 21

Tickets On Sale – Online Here

Just $17 for General Admission Seating – Half  of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

Order online to assure your desired date – tickets will also be available at the door – Box Office Opens 40 minutes before show time For questions about purchasing tickets or your ticket order, please e-mail providenceplayerstickets@cox.net or leave a voicemail at 703-425-6782.

The run time of this production is approximately 100 minutes including a 15 min intermission

Great Theater for A Great Cause

The Providence Players and The Young Hearts Foundation are, once again, proud to bring you outstanding live theater for a great cause.   Half of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation that strives to improve the lives of young people affected by long-term illness.  For the past two years, over $16,000 was generated to support this important cause, and PPF hopes to increase its support in 2014.

Directed by Brian O’Connor Produced by Prince McLaughlin and David Whitehead

Four children, evacuated from London during World War II, explore their new country home. Lucy, the youngest, stumbles upon a curious wardrobe, climbs in and discovers a magical forest in the land of Narnia. The land is under the power of a White Witch, and soon Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy must lead an entire kingdom in a fight for good. This popular and heart-warming tale is full of mystical creatures, talking animals and Aslan, the great lion and ruler of Narnia.  A holiday treat that is good for the entire family.

Co-Produced by Providence Players and The Young Hearts

Nine performances including 4 Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as a Thursday evening performance in addition to Friday and Saturday evenings.

About the Play: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a timeless and enchanting tale that has been a favorite of children and adults for decades, was written by C.S. Lewis in 1950. This stage adaptation brings all of the magic and majesty of Lewis’ Narnia to the stage and has been neatly condensed by award-winning playwright Joseph Robinette. The adventures of four children who inadvertently wander into an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia are faithfully recreated, along with the benevolence and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, and his struggle with the White Witch. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are the four otherwise ordinary children until Lucy discovers a wardrobe that is really a gateway to the enchanted land of Narnia. The evil White Witch has cursed the land with eternal winter and turned many of her enemies to stone. With the arrival of the children, the land begins to change, mur­murs of a prophecy surface, and rumors soon spread that Aslan, the beloved lion king, is going to return. All the memorable episodes from the story are represented in this exciting dramatization: the temptation of Edmund by the witch, the slaying of the evil wolf by Peter, the guidance of Aslan as the children are crowned the four new rulers of Narnia, and more. The supporting characters are also here: the unicorn, the centaur and other forest animals, along with Father Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. Beaver and Tumnus the Faun. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is truly a story of love, faith, courage and giving, and the triumph of good over evil. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years.

 The Providence Players stage C.S. Lewis Family Classic for the 2014 Holiday Season – Great Theater for a Great Cause – Opens This Friday!

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

This Friday, The Providence Players (PPF) will open The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe the C.S Lewis classic adapted by award winning playwright Joseph Robinette at the James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic that has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years will is directed for PPF by Brian O’Connor. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will run for two weeks from December 12 through December 21^st for nine performances included four Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as evening performances on Thursday Friday and Saturday.

Fabulous Live Theater for the Whole Family!

SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. December 12, 13, 18, 19 & 20 Saturday & Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m. December 13, 14, 20 & 21

Tickets On Sale – Online Here

Just $17 for General Admission Seating – Half  of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

Order online to assure your desire date – tickets will also be available at the door – Box Office Opens 40 minutes before show time For questions about purchasing tickets or your ticket order, please e-mail providenceplayerstickets@cox.net or leave a voicemail at 703-425-6782.

The run time of this production is approximately 100 minutes including a 15 min intermission

Great Theater for A Great Cause

The Providence Players and The Young Hearts Foundation are, once again, proud to bring you outstanding live theater for a great cause.   Half of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation that strives to improve the lives of young people affected by long-term illness.  For the past two years, over $16,000 was generated to support this important cause, and PPF hopes to increase its support in 2014.

Directed by Brian O’Connor Produced by Prince McLaughlin and David Whitehead

Four children, evacuated from London during World War II, explore their new country home. Lucy, the youngest, stumbles upon a curious wardrobe, climbs in and discovers a magical forest in the land of Narnia. The land is under the power of a White Witch, and soon Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy must lead an entire kingdom in a fight for good. This popular and heart-warming tale is full of mystical creatures, talking animals and Aslan, the great lion and ruler of Narnia.  A holiday treat that is good for the entire family.

Co-Produced by Providence Players and The Young Hearts

Nine performances including 4 Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as a Thursday evening performance in addition to Friday and Saturday evenings.

About the Play: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a timeless and enchanting tale that has been a favorite of children and adults for decades, was written by C.S. Lewis in 1950. This stage adaptation brings all of the magic and majesty of Lewis’ Narnia to the stage and has been neatly condensed by award-winning playwright Joseph Robinette. The adventures of four children who inadvertently wander into an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia are faithfully recreated, along with the benevolence and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, and his struggle with the White Witch. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are the four otherwise ordinary children until Lucy discovers a wardrobe that is really a gateway to the enchanted land of Narnia. The evil White Witch has cursed the land with eternal winter and turned many of her enemies to stone. With the arrival of the children, the land begins to change, mur­murs of a prophecy surface, and rumors soon spread that Aslan, the beloved lion king, is going to return. All the memorable episodes from the story are represented in this exciting dramatization: the temptation of Edmund by the witch, the slaying of the evil wolf by Peter, the guidance of Aslan as the children are crowned the four new rulers of Narnia, and more. The supporting characters are also here: the unicorn, the centaur and other forest animals, along with Father Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. Beaver and Tumnus the Faun. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is truly a story of love, faith, courage and giving, and the triumph of good over evil. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years.

About the Director: This is director Brian O’Connor’s 6^th show working with the award winning Providence Players. Previously he has directed It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (twice) and last winter’s A Christmas Carol. A graduate of Catholic University’s drama department, Brian has been seen on stage at Ford’s Theater, Arena Stage, Olney Theatre, the Kennedy Center, and with other theater groups in the area. He was a member of the Interact Theatre Company for 5 years and performed with many of the founding acting members of Arena Stage in his career. When not working with PPF, Brian is a sports announcer for major equestrian competitions throughout the United States and was one of the stadium announcers for the Olympic Games in China in 2008. Brian is an inventive director with an eye for detail and staging and his productions are always rich, imaginative and delightful.

The Cast:

Aslan……………………………………………………………………. Bill Fleming

White Witch………………………………………………………. Beth Gilles-Whitehead

Lucy…………………………………………………………….. Kyleigh Friel

Edmund…………………………………………………………… Nicholas Carlin

Susan……………………………………………………………. Rachel Yeager

Peter……………………………………………………………. Ethan Phillips

Mr. Beaver……………………………………………………….. David Whitehead

Mrs. Beaver………………………………………………………. Julie Janson

Unicorn………………………………………………………….. Iris Berendes-Dean

Centaur………………………………………………………….. Gabriel Spratt

Tumnus…………………………………………………………… Kristen Pilgrim

Fenris Ulf……………………………………………………….. Roberto “Rob” Cuevas

Dwarf……………………………………………………………. Abby Pierce

Father Christmas………………………………………………….. Zach Todd

Elf    ………………………………………………………….. Nicole Owens

White Stag……………………………………………………….. Stephanie Celem

Wood Nymphs

Panther……………………. Samantha Feldman

Rabbit…………………….. Tashi Poe

Foxes……………………… Emma Ward and Meghan Ward

Raccoon……………………. Jack Wright

Witch’s Army……………….. Rob Cuevas, Nicole Owens, Zach Todd

Tickets On Sale – Online Here

 The Providence Players stage C.S. Lewis Family Classic for the 2014 Holiday Season – Great Theater for a Great Cause – Opens December 12th

The Providence Players (PPF) continue their 17^th season with a holiday treat for the whole family. On December 12, 2014, PPF will open The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe the C.S Lewis classic adapted by award winning playwright Joseph Robinette at the James Lee Community Center in Falls Church This beloved C.S. Lewis classic that has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years will is directed for PPF by Brian O’Connor. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will run for two weeks from December 12 through December 21^st for nine performances included four Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as evening performances on Thursday Friday and Saturday.

TICKETS ON SALE HERE

Meet the Cast

Director Brian O’Connor has assembled an outstanding cast of Providence Players veterans and some remarkably talented new comers and young people. Let’s meet the cast of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe::

Iris Berendes-Dean (Unicorn) is a 9th grade student, excited to participate in her first PPF show. Recently Iris was part of the ensemble in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita Musical at Theater Lab in North West Washington, DC. Iris enjoys playing classical guitar and singing in her spare time.

Nicholas Carlin (Edmund) is excited to be working with so many other talented actors and actresses in Narnia. He has been in kid-only productions (Cinderella, Best Little Theater, Mulan) but has never performed with PPF. Nick has grown very fond of his “brother and sisters.” He is the youngest of four and has always been known as the “Drama King” to his family.  His hobbies include diving, running, jumping on our trampoline, eating candy, and hanging out with friends.

Stephanie Celem (White Stag) is in her last year of middle school.  She has been dancing since she was 3 years old and she has been in many theatre camp productions over the last 6 years, such as this summer’s premiere of The American House at GMU and Oz at Synetic Theatre where she was delighted to play the Wicked Witch of the West. Stephanie is thrilled to be joining PPF for her first community theatre production.

Roberto “Rob” Cuevas (Fenris Ulf) just recently discovered acting this year.  This is his third production having appeared in South Pacific as CDR Harbison with CRT in Woodbridge and Guys and Dolls as Big Jule with McLean Community Players.  He’s also done an Al Capone monologue for the NVTA One Act Festival and shot episodes for an Investigative Discovery show as well as an untitled mob series for an, as yet, undisclosed cable channel.  Rob is very excited to be part of the Narnia cast and crew and wishes everyone happy holidays filled with peace, love and hope.  May we have more Aslan and less Fenris Ulf in our lives next year!

Samantha Feldman (Wood Nymph/Panther) is thrilled to be joining PPF for the first time for this production. Samantha recently appeared in the Castaways Repertory Theatre production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Peaseblossom). She has also appeared in several productions at The Langley School including The Canterville Ghost (Vampire Dutchess), Annie (July), James and the Giant Peach (Narrator), and Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Ensemble). Outside of theater, Samantha is a skilled ballroom dancer and lacrosse player.

Bill Fleming (Aslan) is happy to be back with PPF once again this holiday season after playing the Ghost of Christmas Present (and other assorted hangers on) in last year’s production of A Christmas Carol.  Thanks to Brian for the opportunity and the whole PPF family for the welcoming, positive environment they create.

Kyleigh Friel (Lucy) is thrilled to be reunited with her PPF family for the third holiday season.  With PPF she appeared as Gladys Herdman in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and Belinda Crachit in A Christmas Carol.  She has performed at the McLean Community Center and Joy of Dance company.  Kyleigh is an avid softball and volleyball player and enjoys singing in her school’s advanced treble choir.

Beth Gilles-Whitehead (White Witch) is proud of her 11-year association with PPF. She has acted, directed, designed costumes and many other jobs that one can volunteer for and contribute to as a community theatre member. Roles she has played:  Mame Dennis in Auntie Mame, M’Lynne in Steel Magnolias, Charlotte in Moon Over Buffalo and others. Directing: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, All My Sons, Waiting in the Wings, The Good Doctor as well as working with wonderful, kind, creative and fun people.

Julie Janson (Mrs. Beaver, Props) is thrilled to be performing in her second PPF production. She has also performed as Curley’s Wife in PPF’s Of Mice and Men. Prior to that, she directed at Ramstein High School and performed and directed extensively while studying at Boston University. When she is not pursuing her love of the stage, Julie serves as an active duty officer in the U.S. Air Force and volunteers with Mainline Animal Rescue, DC Actors for Animals, and Braille Tails to help animals in need.

Nicole Owens (Elf) is in 8th grade at Longfellow MS.  Last year she played Belinda Cratchit in the Little Theater of Alexandria’s A Christmas Carol.  Nicole also played Zuzu, Young Violet, and Janie in It’s a Wonderful Life and had a part in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, both with PPF.  Prior to those, she was a village child in the Mariinsky Opera’s War and Peace, and an angel in the Pennsylvania Ballet’s Nutcracker, both at the Kennedy Center.  Nicole spends most of her after school hours on homework, gymnastics, and reading.

Ethan Phillips (Peter) is thrilled to be appearing in his sixth production with PPF, after performing in the award-winning All My Sons (Bert), It’s a Wonderful Life (Young George), Auntie Mame (Emory), The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Max) and A Christmas Carol (Peter/Dick Wilkins).  He has also appeared on stage in Seussical (Woodson High School) and A Year with Frog and Toad.  Ethan is in 8th grade at Frost Middle School and enjoys playing lacrosse and spending time with his friends.

Abby Pierce (Dwarf) is making her first appearance on stage under her new name. She married West Pierce in June. In August, the couple moved to Alexandria. Abby received an AA in art and theatre in 2013. Her most recent and best loved role was Toto in The Wizard of Oz. Since graduating, she has focused on film work. Look for her in the background of Selma – coming to theaters in February. Abby teaches tots’ fitness classes, attends birthday parties as Disney princesses and interns at Stone Soup Films.

Kristen Pilgrim (Tumnus, Fight Choreographer) is delighted to work with PPF for the first time. Kristen is an actor, director, fight choreographer, and educator. DIRECTING: Seussical Jr.! (S. Berkshire School) The Immortal Jellyfish (Avalanche), The Shrewing of the Tamed (UnRuly Women), Big Bad (Encore), The Poet and the Rent (Traveling Players Ensemble) ASST DIRECTION: Rorschach, Signature, American Century Theatre. FIGHT DIRECTION: Into the Woods (NextStop), On the Waterfront (TACT), The Hobbit (Encore) Caesar and Dada (WSC Avant Bard, Assistant,) ACTING: Val in The Tournament (Live Action Theatre, company member) TRAINING: BA in Theatre, Psychology, College of William and Mary.

Tashi Poe (Wood Nymph/Rabbit)is thrilled to be a part of PPF for this production. She would like to thank her aunt for introducing her to theater. She has recently appeared in Willy Wonka: The Musical. Tashi has greatly enjoyed this experience with PPF and hopes to be a member for many years to come.

Zach Todd (Father Christmas) is excited to be back with PPF for his third show. He previously appeared on PPF’s stage in A Christmas Carol and The House of Blue Leaves. Once done with Graduate School, he hopes to do more theater and explore his other hobbies which include traveling, writing, and playing nerdy games with friends.

Emma Ward (Wood Nymph/Fox)is so excited to be performing in this production. This is her first show with PPF. She has performed in school plays and has danced with Cuppett Performing Arts Center in Vienna for over 10 years. Emma is in 10th grade at Marshall High School and enjoys singing in the choir there.

Meghan Ward (Wood Nymph/Fox) is thrilled to be a part of this wonderful production, her first with PPF. She has previously appeared in several school and camp shows as well as numerous dance performances with Cuppett Performing Arts Center. Meghan is currently a sophomore at Marshall High School. In her free time she enjoys dancing, playing the piano, and singing.

David Whitehead (Mr. Beaver, Co-Producer) has had the pleasure of participating in many PPF productions. He has played Marley in A Christmas Carol, George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life, Gabe in Dinner with Friends, Chris in All My Sons, and Banjo in The Man Who Came to Dinner.  David is Treasurer, Past President and a current member of the PPF Board.

Jack Wright (Wood Nymph/Raccoon) Some may know Jack as Fish (nick name).  This is his first time in any sort of play or theater.  “My Aunt Margo told my Mom about the play and I decided to give it a try. I am 12 years old and my friends mean the world to me and I’m so thankful to be here with the Providence Players.”

Rachel Yeager (Susan) is a graduate of Grove City College where she studied Communications and Theatre while performing in numerous shows that no one has ever heard of (Carnival  and The Apple Tree, for instance). After college she managed to break this mold and appear in better-known productions such as Oklahoma! and Fiddler on the Roof. She also recently had the opportunity to study acting in New York City. If you are unfamiliar with Narnia, she highly suggests that after the show you brew yourself a cup of tea and read the book. (And everything else written by C.S. Lewis.) Further up and further in!

Gabriel Spratt (Centaur) is a sophomore at Bishop O’Connell high school. He has performed in several other shows such as The Little Mermaid, The Wizard of Oz and most recently, The Trials of Robin Hood. He is excited for this show and is grateful to be a part of this production  

Fabulous Live Theater for the Whole Family!

SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. December 12, 13, 18, 19 & 20 Saturday & Sunday Matinees 2:00 p.m. December 13, 14, 20 & 21

Tickets On Sale – Online Here

Just $17 for General Admission Seating – Half  of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation

At the James Lee Community Center Theater

2855 Annandale Rd Falls Church Virginia 22042

Order online to assure your desire date – tickets will also be available at the door – Box Office Opens 40 minutes before show time For questions about purchasing tickets or your ticket order, please e-mail providenceplayerstickets@cox.net or leave a voicemail at 703-425-6782.

The run time of this production is approximately 100 minutes including a 15 min intermission

Great Theater for A Great Cause

The Providence Players and The Young Hearts Foundation are, once again, proud to bring you outstanding live theater for a great cause.   Half of all net proceeds from this production will be donated to Young Hearts Foundation that strives to improve the lives of young people affected by long-term illness.  For the past two years, over $16,000 was generated to support this important cause, and PPF hopes to increase its support in 2014.

Directed by Brian O’Connor Produced by Prince McLaughlin and David Whitehead

Four children, evacuated from London during World War II, explore their new country home. Lucy, the youngest, stumbles upon a curious wardrobe, climbs in and discovers a magical forest in the land of Narnia. The land is under the power of a White Witch, and soon Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy must lead an entire kingdom in a fight for good. This popular and heart-warming tale is full of mystical creatures, talking animals and Aslan, the great lion and ruler of Narnia.  A holiday treat that is good for the entire family.

Co-Produced by Providence Players and The Young Hearts

Nine performances including 4 Saturday and Sunday matinees as well as a Thursday evening performance in addition to Friday and Saturday evenings.

About the Play: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a timeless and enchanting tale that has been a favorite of children and adults for decades, was written by C.S. Lewis in 1950. This stage adaptation brings all of the magic and majesty of Lewis’ Narnia to the stage and has been neatly condensed by award-winning playwright Joseph Robinette. The adventures of four children who inadvertently wander into an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia are faithfully recreated, along with the benevolence and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, and his struggle with the White Witch. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are the four otherwise ordinary children until Lucy discovers a wardrobe that is really a gateway to the enchanted land of Narnia. The evil White Witch has cursed the land with eternal winter and turned many of her enemies to stone. With the arrival of the children, the land begins to change, mur­murs of a prophecy surface, and rumors soon spread that Aslan, the beloved lion king, is going to return. All the memorable episodes from the story are represented in this exciting dramatization: the temptation of Edmund by the witch, the slaying of the evil wolf by Peter, the guidance of Aslan as the children are crowned the four new rulers of Narnia, and more. The supporting characters are also here: the unicorn, the centaur and other forest animals, along with Father Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. Beaver and Tumnus the Faun. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is truly a story of love, faith, courage and giving, and the triumph of good over evil. This beloved C.S. Lewis classic has inspired generations of readers, young and old alike, for more than 60 years.

About the Director: This is director Brian O’Connor’s 6^th show working with the award winning Providence Players. Previously he has directed It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (twice) and last winter’s A Christmas Carol. A graduate of Catholic University’s drama department, Brian has been seen on stage at Ford’s Theater, Arena Stage, Olney Theatre, the Kennedy Center, and with other theater groups in the area. He was a member of the Interact Theatre Company for 5 years and performed with many of the founding acting members of Arena Stage in his career. When not working with PPF, Brian is a sports announcer for major equestrian competitions throughout the United States and was one of the stadium announcers for the Olympic Games in China in 2008. Brian is an inventive director with an eye for detail and staging and his productions are always rich, imaginative and delightful.