Auditions for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown: June 14-15

Auditions for the third show of our 2021 Straw Hat Theatre season, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, will be held June 14-15, 6:30-8 p.m. Auditions are open to kids ages 10-14. Auditioners should come prepared with a short song and short monologue. This show will be directed by Mary Ann Kline; performance dates are August 13-15 & 20-22. All Straw Hat performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Call (440) 964-3396 to schedule an audition time.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Based on the Comic Strip Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz
Book, Music, & Lyrics by Clark Gesner
Additional Dialogue by Michael Mayer
Additional Music & Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
Presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals

Announcing auditions for “Nunsense II”

Auditions for Nunsense II will be held May 11-12, 6:30-8 p.m. Call (440) 964-3396 to schedule your audition. Nunsense II will run July 9-11 & 15-17; all performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. This production will be directed by Cathy Lawson. If possible, auditioners should wear clear masks and/or face shields for their auditions. Please come prepared with a short song in comedic musical theater-style (no church hymns, please!) — a short comedic monologue is also preferred, but not required. We ask that anyone auditioning to perform this summer be vaccinated for COVID.
Nunsense II
Book, Music and Lyrics by Dan Goggin
A Tams-Witmark Title

Announcing auditions for “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change”

Our 2021 Straw Hat Theatre season is still a work in progress, but we are VERY excited to announce auditions for I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change on May 4-5 between 6:30-8 p.m.! Call (440) 964-3396 to schedule your audition spot. This show will be directed by Steve Rhodes, and performance dates will be July 23-25 & July 30-August 1. All Straw Hat performances begin at 7:30 p.m. If possible, auditioners should wear clear masks and/or face shields for their auditions. Please come prepared with a short song and a monologue. We ask that anyone auditioning to perform this summer be vaccinated for COVID.

We’ll be announcing the rest of our summer season as soon as we are able!

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change
Book and Lyrics by Joe DiPietro / Music by Jimmy Roberts
A Concord Theatricals Title
Directed by Stephen Rhodes

Straw Hat 2020 productions cancelled due to gathering restrictions

In a decision we know is going to be as disappointing to our supporters as it was for us, the Ashtabula Arts Center is officially cancelling our scheduled Straw Hat Theatre 2020 productions: Tuck Everlasting, Matilda, and The Secret Garden. Restrictions on gatherings necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic have made holding auditions and rehearsing shows impossible for the time being, and it’s still uncertain when it will be safe for theaters to reopen to audiences.

However, while producing and staging our usual theater shows may not be possible right now, we are looking into alternative programming for this summer. We’ll be posting updates on what will be happening here at the AAC this summer as that programming develops. In the meantime, we hope you’ll check out our schedule of remote classes and consider registering for one or two of them (or more, should the creativity bug bite you).

Should the situation change, and the opportunity arise for us to produce any of our summer shows, we will announce it, along with updated information on audition and production dates.
We are eagerly awaiting the day we can have our actors back on stage, our crews bustling in the wings, and our audiences in their seats. Be safe, friends. We miss you.

Updated programming changes for COVID-19

The Ashtabula Arts Center is closed to the public until at least Friday, May 1. All programming is also suspended until at least May 1. Staff will be available for limited hours at (440) 964-3396, and Executive Director Meeghan Humphrey will be available by email at mhumphrey@ashtabulaartscenter.org. If you would like to be added to our email list, please contact Amanda Frazier at marketing@ashtabulaartscenter.org.

Straw Hat auditions are postponed indefinitely. New dates for auditions will be announced as soon as possible.

The following events are cancelled:
all performances of Boeing Boeing
all performances of the spring dance concert, Perpetuum Mobile
the wine tasting before the spring dance concert
the Children’s Dance Recital
reception for “Women’s Rights” exhibit
Kiwanis 2020 Student Art exhibit/receptions
The Good Life Concert: Greetings from Ashtabula County

The Dining for the Arts Cocktail Party is postponed; new date TBD.

New dates for classes and workshops will be announced as soon as possible.

Now taking appointments for Straw Hat Theatre auditions!

We are now taking appointments for Straw Hat Theatre auditions! Call (440) 964-3396 to schedule. (Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged.)
Auditions will be held Sat., Mar. 21, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m., and Sun., Mar. 22 from 6-8 p.m. Auditions for all three shows will be held on these dates.

Please come prepared with 32 bars of a song from the musical theater genre. There will be an accompanist present. Sheet music is preferred, but not required. If you are bringing pre-recorded accompaniment, it must be instrumental only — no vocals. Straw Hat auditions are open to the public. Anyone, regardless of experience level, is welcome to audition. We are also always in need of volunteers to work backstage.

Tuck Everlasting
Performance Dates: June 12-14, 19-21, 26-27
Book by Claudia Shear & Tim Federle
Music By Chris Miller
Lyrics by Nathan Tysen
Based on the novel “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt
Presented through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatrical Company
What would you do if you had all eternity? Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure, but gets more than she could have imagined when she meets the Tucks, a family that has become immortal. When Winnie learns of the magic behind the Tuck family’s unending youth, she must fight to protect their secret from those who would do anything for a chance at eternal life. As her adventure unfolds, Winnie faces an extraordinary choice: return to her life, or continue with the Tucks on their infinite journey.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
Performance Dates: July 10-12, 17-19, 24-26 (in our indoor theater)
Book by Dennis Kelly
Music & Lyrics Tim Minchin
Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials also supplied by MTI.
Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, this Tony Award-winning musical revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. Little Matilda Wormwood is an amazing girl with wit, intelligence, and incredible powers. Unloved by her cruel parents, Matilda’s life begins to change when she meets kind schoolteacher Miss Honey, as well as child-hating headmistress Miss Trunchbull. It will take all Matilda’s wit and courage to be the heroine her classmates need.

The Secret Garden
Performance Dates: July 31- August 2, August 7-9, 14-15
Book & Lyrics by Marsha Norman
Music by Lucy Simon
Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Presented through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatrical Company
Orphaned in India, young Mary Lennox travels to Yorkshire, England to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald Craven and his invalid son Colin. The Craven estate’s many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and the “Dreamers,” spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life in this tale of forgiveness and renewal.

Announcing Straw Hat 2020!

We are excited to announce our show lineup for the 2020 season of Straw Hat Theatre! Auditions for all three shows will be held Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and Sunday, March 22, 6-8 p.m. Appointments are encouraged; drop-ins welcome. We will begin scheduling appointments in the new year.

TUCK EVERLASTING
June 12-14, 19-21, 26-27
Book by Claudia Shear & Tim Federle
Music By Chris Miller
Lyrics by Nathan Tysen
Based on the novel Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
Presented through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatrical Company
What would you do if you had all eternity? Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure, but gets more than she could have imagined when she meets the Tucks, a family that has become immortal. When Winnie learns of the magic behind the Tuck family’s unending youth, she must fight to protect their secret from those who would do anything for a chance at eternal life. As her adventure unfolds, Winnie faces an extraordinary choice: return to her life, or continue with the Tucks on their infinite journey.

Roald Dahl’s MATILDA THE MUSICAL
July 10-12, 17-19, 24-26 (in our indoor theater)
Book by Dennis Kelly
Music & Lyrics Tim Minchin
Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials also supplied by MTI.
Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, this Tony Award-winning musical revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. Little Matilda Wormwood is an amazing girl with wit, intelligence, and incredible powers. Unloved by her cruel parents, Matilda’s life begins to change when she meets kind schoolteacher Miss Honey, as well as child-hating headmistress Miss Trunchbull. It will take all Matilda’s wit and courage to be the heroine her classmates need.

THE SECRET GARDEN
July 31- August 2, August 7-9, 14-15
Book & Lyrics by Marsha Norman
Music by Lucy Simon
Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Presented through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatrical Company
Orphaned in India, young Mary Lennox travels to Yorkshire, England to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald Craven and his invalid son Colin. The Craven estate’s many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and the “Dreamers,” spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life in this tale of forgiveness and renewal.

Get half-price tickets to “Lucky Stiff” with donations to the Animal Protective League

Get half-price tickets to the performance of Lucky Stiff on Sunday, August 4 when you donate items for the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League. Drop off donations and purchase half-price tickets at our front desk. And join us for Bellyrubs Over Broadway on Saturday, August 3 between 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. — a special meet & greet event with some of the APL’s adoptable pets, right here at the Arts Center!
NEEDED ITEMS:
wet & dry cat food
wet & dry dog food
kitten food
Cat-Sip milk alternative
cat & dog treats
kitty litter
puppy pads
cat & dog toys/Kongs
smooth peanut butter
outside toys for dogs
Q-Tips
hydrogen peroxide
pens
legal size envelopes
Magic Erasers
liquid laundry detergent
hand soap
dish soap
bleach
garbage bags
brooms & dust pans
scrub brushes and pads
copy paper
stamps
desk/wall pamphlet holders
25ft exterior extension cords

Open spots at Dining for the Arts events this summer, fall, & winter

All Dining for the Arts events with spaces still open are listed here. To make reservations, call (440) 964-3396 or stop in at our front desk. PLEASE NOTE: some of these events have only a handful of openings left, so we recommend that you you make reservations early. Addresses for private residence event locations are not posted here, but will be provided to you at the time you make reservations; all events are located in Ashtabula County.

Night at the Gallery: a Masquerade – October 19 at Framed on Main, 4533 Main Ave, Ashtabula, 6:30 p.m.

Hosted by Anthony & Mariella Platano, Jane Haines & Chris DiGiacomo, Abram & Sarah Noufer
$75 per person
Hear live music by Lyn Rocco, learn to do the Waltz or the Charleston with Brenda Angle, and take part in a silent auction and Best Dressed costume contest. Come have fun and support a great cause!
Menu
Small Bites highlighting Local Chefs
Beer, Wine, Signature Drink

A December to Remember Holiday Party – December 7, 6 p.m.
Hosted by Ashok & Nafisa Kondru
$150 per person
Hold back the cold at a festive evening including live entertainment, a top shelf open bar, mingle dinner buffet, and valet parking.
Menu
Welcome Drink
A Variety of Hors d’oeuvres
Baked Potato Bar & Salad
Prime Rib (Carving Station)
Chicken Piccata
Grilled Halibut
Roasted Vegetables
Rice & Bread
A Selection of Desserts

 

 

 

Concerts on the Lawn presents Broadway Misfits

The Ashtabula Arts Center presents their very first Misfits Concert! Our talented performers include Hannah Sowry, Libby Kendzerski, Marcus Lowery, Jacob McKee, Max Seymour, Derek Lebzelter, and Jessica Lebzelter. These extraordinary singers will be performing songs from roles in which they would never be cast. There will be a diverse selection of musical theater including music from “Wicked,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Miss Saigon,” “Bridges Of Madison County,” and many more.

Concerts on the Lawn are free events, open to the public. Bring chairs or a picnic blanket and relax on the lawn outside Straw Hat Theatre. Concessions will be available; outside refreshments welcome. The 2019 Concerts on the Lawn series is sponsored by Nassief Auto Group.

Make reservations for “Authentic Ireland” Dining for the Arts event

There are still spots available at our first Dining for the Arts event, “Authentic Ireland,” on Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy dinner followed by a trip through “The Hills of Ireland,” a 00 gage model railroad set in 1970’s Ireland, then traditional Irish music and a pint in the pub! This event is generously hosted by Patrick Dillane & Maureen Tanner.

MENU: salmon appetizers, Dublin Coddle (sausage, bacon, and onion stew), mashed parsnips, carrots, roasted Brussels sprouts, & Bailey’s bread pudding. $75 per person — all proceeds benefit the Ashtabula Arts Center. Location info will be provided upon reservation & request — call (440) 964-3396 to make reservations.

“Carrie” opens this Friday at Straw Hat!

Our 2019 Straw Hat Theatre season opens Friday, June 7 with Carrie, based on the novel by Stephen King, directed by Kim Godfrey, and featuring Bailey Walters as Carrie White, Aubrey Brail as Margaret White, Libby Kendzerski as Sue Snell, Sarah Riley as Chris Hargensen, Jacob McKee as Tommy Ross, Hannah Sowry as Miss Gardner, and Marcus Lowery as Billy Nolan.  Call (440) 964-3396 or order tickets online here.

Carrie runs June 7-9, 14-16, & 20-22. All Straw Hat shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Straw Hat Theatre 2019 is sponsored by KeyBank.