Setting the Stage: Anna Deavere Smith Begins Work with Director Leonard Foglia at ZACH Theatre

New beginnings abound at ZACH Theatre this week -- for both the Austin theatre scene and its latest star Anna Deavere Smith. Ms. Smith begins preview performances of her masterful new play LET ME DOWN EASY on Wednesday at 8pm on ZACH's Whisenhunt Stage, and begins the play's official run with a champagne reception following Saturday's opening night performance.

Beginning, too, at ZACH is an item that recently caught the attention of The New York Times: the start of a long-anticipated collaboration between famed Broadway director Leonard Foglia and Ms. Smith. The two are debuting their collaborative work on LET ME DOWN EASY exclusively at ZACH Theatre.

And, if you ask us, this is a match made in theatre heaven! LET ME DOWN EASY is on its final stop before heading to New York's Second Stage Theater. But Austin audiences get to witness a level of closeness with Anna Deavere Smith that New York audiences just won't see. Because ZACH's Whisenhunt stage hosts Ms. Smith's play in-the-round, Austin audiences will have a chance to see her in a setting with unparalleled intimacy.

“The city of Austin and ZACH Theatre, specifically, have played an important role in the evolution of this project,” said Ms. Smith. “ZACH Theatre has been part of the play since the beginning; many of the characters – from Gov. Ann Richards to Lance Armstrong – originated in suggestions from people at ZACH.”

The fact that the collaboration between Leonard Foglia and Anna Deavere Smith begins at ZACH Theatre is also a tremendous privilege for Austin audiences. Mr. Foglia took Laurence Fishborne's one-man play THURGOOD to extreme critical acclaim last year on Broadway. And many critics are excited to see what role he will play in shaping Ms. Smith's one-woman show at ZACH.

LET ME DOWN EASY "is a substantial revision of what I did before, focusing far more on health care than the previous productions," Ms. Smith told The New York Times. “Signs seem to suggest we will soon be in a vigorous national debate over health care. The piece not only looks at the human body as both resilient and vulnerable, but also health care as a practical part of that.”

For tickets, call (512) 476-0541, x1. Book early, shows are selling fast! Because of the tremendous demand, ZACH recently added a Tuesday night performance, and the theatre is offering a limited number of $20 tickets on Tuesday nights.

This project has been made possible by the Alice Kleberg Reynolds Foundation.

Austin Homeless Community Members Come to See THE GRAPES OF WRATH

It's hard to believe Dr. Judy Knotts, the head of St. Gabriel's Catholic Academy in Austin, lived on the streets. But Dr. Knotts has gone through extraordinary lengths throughout her career to question commonly held worldviews, particularly about poverty and homelessness. It was this uncommon passion that drove her to work with Austin's homeless community as a volunteer and minister at Mobile Loaves and Fishes, a charity benefiting the homeless.

This is where her story begins with the ZACH community. Producing Artistic Director Dave Steakley shares Dr. Knotts' passion for relating with the underserved in our community. Bringing to stage THE GRAPES OF WRATH at ZACH Theatre was his latest contribution toward that mission. In fact, Steakley set up a tremendously successful donation point at all THE GRAPES OF WRATH performances to benefit Mobile Loaves and Fishes.

Dr. Knotts attended the Sunday matinee performance of THE GRAPES OF WRATH last week with two members of the Austin homeless community. She wrote in a letter to ZACH that four members were supposed to join her, but two "got gun shy." The other two had an experience unlike any other, and Dr. Knotts' kind disclosure of their stories moved everyone who works at ZACH to look at homelessness and the spirit of charity and shear joyousness felt in THE GRAPES OF WRATH in a completely different light.

Here's Dr. Knotts' letter to ZACH:

Dear actors/artists!

Thank you for the inspiration. I attended the Sunday matinee with two homeless folks. Two more were to come but they got gun shy.

As Janelle, Jarret, Marc, and Xochitl [castmembers from THE GRAPES OF WRATH] heard, this was their first live performance of any kind. Imagine that! They were nervous to come and I was right with them in the anxiety department. This was like going to another world.

They had so many practical issues. Where to store their stuff? Solved, in my car. Where to sit, what to do with the ticket and what if they lost it, what to do when it got dark in the theatre, and would they miss the Mobile Loaves and Fishes food truck?

To allay their fears, we planned a dinner stop at Sandy's on the way back to the park which made them relax a bit. At first the language was a hurdle for them. They had to listen harder. On the streets people don't use such long sentences or talk about life. They got most of the humor and felt the poverty personally. The music was refreshing, giving them, and the rest of us a minute or two to catch our breath from the intensity of the action.

They learned so much... that theatres have nice bathrooms, that there is an intermission where people smoke whole cigarettes and don't scrounge for butts, that you don't talk while the play is going on, that people get paid to be in plays (I know not enough!), that people go to the theatre to see this kind of thing and be entertained and inspired, and that you show your appreciation by applause. [One homeless attendee] was a real promoter after seeing the play. She told a group of homeless people in the park that she had a "lump in her throat at the end of the play" and urged them to go if invited.

If at all possible, I would love to bring another group the Sunday after Easter... only if there are extra seats. Personally, while not passing out candy bars and playing mother hen, I was awe struck by the play itself and your acting. You were not the people I knew, you were the Joad's full of pain and promise. Thank you all for sharing your gifts and giving the audience hope.

-Judy

Dr. Knotts: ZACH Theatre salutes you! We hope everyone in our community -- homeless or not -- gets to ZACH to witness this extraordinary theatrical event.

It's an amazing experience to share with your family this holiday weekend! ZACH is offering a family 4-pack to see the show, as well as $15 student rush tickets (starting one hour before all shows.) Call the box office to reserve seats at (512) 476-0541, x1, and ask about group discounts for parties of 8 or more.

Link Love: Sara Hickman Posts on THE GRAPES OF WRATH

Update (4-10-09): Read Sara's review of the show.

One of our favorite local musicians, Sara Hickman, is coming to see THE GRAPES OF WRATH tonight. She posted about it earlier today on her blog at http://zenlala.com/.

Being in Austin, we're, of course, huge music fans, and we recently put up a blog post with live recordings of music from the show as well as free MP3 downloads of tracks that inspired THE GRAPES OF WRATH's original live musical score.

Thanks again, Sara, for the link love and enjoy the show!

We'll check back with your blog later to see what you thought of it.

Get Your Golden Ticket: WILLY WONKA JUNIOR Musical Hits ZACH Stage This Weekend!

Oompa, oompa: There are only 4 performances of WILLY WONKA JUNIOR, ZACH Theatre's family friendly youth production based on Roald Dahl's book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory playing this and next Saturday!

On Saturdays April 11 and 18 at 12:30 and 3pm, 23 students, ages 8-12, will perform the musical adaptation of the book with all the songs from the classic movie Willy Wonka -- and nine new music numbers written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley especially for the show!

Directed by Jaclyn Loewenstein and adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy A. McDonald, the show is being presented under an exclusive arrangement with Music Theatre International.

You don't have to buy a zillion Wonka bars to get in or be the luckiest kid in the world like Charlie: These golden tickets are a bargain at only $10 for adults and $8 for children. You can reserve your tour of the chocolate factory with our box office, open noon to 7pm, by calling (512) 476-0541, x1.

And, hot off the press, one oompa loompa just leaked these pictures from inside the factory:





This play runs approximately 75 minutes and is suitable for children ages 4 and up.

Photos by Kimberly Schuh

Red, Hot and Soul 2009: Photos from The Biggest Party of the Year

Thanks to all who joined us Saturday for ZACH Theatre's annual Red, Hot & Soul gala! The who's who of Austin graced the event -- and we got it all on camera. A complete gallery of photos has been posted on ZACH's website. Look for video footage in upcoming blog posts and on ZACH's website, www.zachtheatre.org. Big thanks to Seabrook Jones for the photos and Broadway Costumes, Inc. for the costumes!

Larry Connelly, Red, Hot & Soul Chair, and ZACH's Michael Guerra pause for a picture.


The fashion show models stood en vogue as guests arrived.


(From left to right) Scott Joslove, Councilmember Sheryl Cole, Mayor Pro-Tem Brewster McCracken and his wife Sarah cozy up to the camera.


ZACH's Producing Artistic Director Dave Steakley and singer Trish Murphy are all smiles.


ZACH Theatre's Showstoppers brought down the house with their rendition of the song "The Rhythm of Life" from the musical SWEET CHARITY.


Libby Sikora and Bettie Naylor sit down for dinner.


Austin American Statesman writer Michael Barnes and ZACH's Dave Steakley stop for a photo.


Bill Dickson, Linda Ball and James Armstrong were there.


Stuart Moulton, ahem ... Joan Rivers, interviewed all the guests, including Dave Steakley.


Austin Chronicle fashion editor Stephen Moser strikes a pose with one of his models.


Cliff Redd, Executive Director for the Long Center for the Performing Arts flashes a smile.


ZACH employees, such as Daryl Jones and Amanda Adams, dressed as Broadway characters for the event.


Eric Groten takes his wife Maria for one last dip at the end of the night.

Remember to check out the complete Red, Hot & Soul photo gallery on ZACH's website.

Photos by Seabrook Jones. Costumes provided by Broadway Costumes, Inc.

BREAKING NEWS: Anna Deavere Smith Tickets $10 Off For First Wednesday and Sunday Evening Performances

This won't last long.

ZACH Theatre is offering a special promotional rate for Anna Deavere Smith's first Wednesday and Sunday evening performances of her new play LET ME DOWN EASY. For 8pm performances on Wednesday, April 15 and Sunday, April 19 only, ZACH will take $10 off all tickets purchased by phone (512-476-0541, x1), until the shows sell out.

This is Ms. Smith's last stop before heading to New York, and we anticipate sold out crowds every night during her short run in Austin.

LET ME DOWN EASY is an Austin-borne play that started 8 years ago right here at ZACH. This is a rare opportunity for Austin audiences to experience such a high caliber performance by film and television star Anna Deavere Smith.

Directed by Broadway's Leonard Foglia, and made possible by the Alice Kleberg Reynolds Foundation, Ms. Smith incorporates a dramatic range of interview subjects during this passionate, utterly jaw-dropping performance. It is a masterful documentary style staging of real-life interviews of influential and important figures -- ranging from Texas Governor Ann Richards to Lance Armstrong, Eve Ensler, Anderson Cooper and survivors of the Rwandan Genocide -- as Ms. Smith channels their compelling perspectives on issues from healthcare and education to international politics and the economy.

Dave Steakley, ZACH's Artistic Director, notes, "Ms. Smith possesses the amazing ability to change from one character to another -- swiftly, completely and stunningly. Through her full transformation, right before our eyes, we find ourselves equipped with the tools to create personal change for ourselves."

This is a performance like nothing you've ever seen before. You are at once watching Ms. Smith deliver the performance of her lifetime and getting a rare opportunity to meet some of the most significant athletes, physicians and players in the global health crisis.

Don't miss it. It all starts Weds., April 15 -- and, remember, ZACH is running a promotion of $10 off tickets for evening (8pm) performances on its first night in preview (4/15) and the first Sunday, April 19. But the offer is on a first-come, first-served basis by phone only, at (512) 476-0541, x1.

Photos by Michael Lutch, courtesy of American Repertory Theatre

THE GRAPES OF WRATH Soundtrack: Free Song Downloads from ZACH's Soulful Hit Musical Score

Ever since THE GRAPES OF WRATH took stage at ZACH, audiences have been blown away by an unexpected surprise from the show: Its soundtrack.

The music from the show adds a dimension to the stage version of THE GRAPES OF WRATH that many didn't see coming after just having read the book.

True to the novel, the play is an entirely different experience than most expect, in part because of the lush live musical soundtrack that accompanies audiences night-after-night through the heartland of 1930's America. It's a joyous experience, fast-paced with heartfelt songs and a lush, emotionally evocative and stimulating musical score.

Without further ado, here are music downloads recorded by cast members from ZACH's production of THE GRAPES OF WRATH (click on the links to hear the tracks, or save them by right clicking and choosing 'Save As'):

1. Dust Bowl Children, performed by John Pointer


2. Dust Bowl Blues, performed by John Pointer


3. I'll Close 'Em, performed by John Pointer, Zach Thompson and Paul Mitchell Wright


4. 66, performed by John Pointer and Rich Upton


5. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, performed by Sarah Gay


6. Pastures of Plenty, performed by Sarah Gay, John Pointer, Rich Upton, Paul Mitchell Wright, Zach Thompson, Marc Pouhe and Jarrett Mallon


7. Clarksville Talking Blues, performed by John Pointer, Paul Mitchell Wright, Zach Thompson and Marc Pouhe


8. Battle Hymn of the Republic, performed by Sarah Gay and John Pointer
   


9. I Ain't Got No Home, performed by Rich Upton


10. Crawdad, performed by John Pointer, Rich Upton, Paul Mitchell Wright, Zach Thompson and Jarrett Mallon


11. Pass Me Not, O' Gentle Savior, performed by Sarah Gay and John Pointer

Tickets for this epic live performance of THE GRAPES OF WRATH are available online, or by phone at (512) 476-0541, x1.

Red, Hot and Soul, ZACH's Star-Studded Gala, Is Saturday: Auction Items Just Announced

This Saturday, Broadway meets the runway in a star-studded evening at ZACH Theatre's annual Red, Hot & Soul gala.

ZACH is known for staging one of Austin’s most anticipated and superbly unique parties of the year. Each season delivers new sights, sounds, and surprises from the ZACH Theatre's gala committee and creative teams.

Everyone will be there, but what everyone wants to know is not just who is on the guest list but what is on the auction list.

ZACH's auction items are always one-of-kind finds that only the theatre could pull together. You think you know the girl or guy who has everything? Well, think again. Here's a list ranging from a trip in paradise to private concerts to a role in an upcoming ZACH Theatre production that everyone will be bidding on:

• Tuscan Paradise Retreat In Lucca, Italy
  Value: $9,000
  
  The ultimate in Tuscan luxury! Fly American Airlines to enjoy seven nights for up to six guests in a Broadway producer’s private retreat. Located in the heart of Lucca’s “centro storico,” this spacious and glamorous apartment is furnished in a luxurious yet practical manner to delight even the most assiduous holiday makers. A charming combination of typically Tuscan decor and modern conveniences (wi/fi, gourmet kitchen, satellite TV), Residenza Mansi is the perfect base for your exploration of historic Lucca and the surrounding wine country
  
  
• Miro Quartet Concert and Dinner
  Value: $11,500
  
  The dynamic Miro Quartet, one of America’s highest-profile chamber groups, has risen to the top of the international chamber music scene in only a decade, captivating audiences and critics around the world with its youthful intensity and mature interpretations. On May 24th, you and your friends will gather at a beautiful Tarrytown home overlooking Lake Austin to share a glass (or two) of wine before the concert. Afterwards, mingle with the performers over a buffet dinner for 24 guests catered by 34th Street Cafe, with wine provided by the Aulers, owners of Fall Creek Vineyards. A very special concert to be remembered forever!
  
  
• John Pointer Concert at Sullivan’s Steakhouse
  Value: $5,000
  
  The fun will never stop with the talented multi-instrumentalist, John Pointer performing at Sullivan’s Ringside Bar. This concert and party for 30 people includes a four course dinner and everyone’s first drink! John Pointer is a ZACH favorite with his riveting performance as Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar/Jesucristo Superestrella and his current role in John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath. Aside from his national TV commercials for Chili’s Baby Back Ribs and Schlotzsky’s Deli/Austin City Limits, he has been active in the Austin music scene since 1991. As a multi-instrumentalist, he has produced, performed, and recorded with many bands and artists including Ozomatli, BoomBoxATX, Schrödinger’s Cat, Woodwork, Trio Los Vigilantes, and Sixpence None the Richer.
  
  
• ZACH’s Exclusive Diva Dinner & Concert
  Value: Priceless
  
  Back by popular demand, you have the opportunity to experience this private concert by three of ZACH’s most talented powerhouse Divas in the elegant south dining room of Chez Zee. Your unforgettable evening will feature a catered dinner for ten and a stellar musical evening designed personally for you by ZACH Artistic Director Dave Steakley. Depending on availability, your divas will come from this extraordinary group of ZACH stars: Meredith McCall (The Santaland Diaries, Cabaret); Rebecca Schoolar (Tapestry, Rockin’ Christmas Party); Janis Stinson (Crowns, Porgy and Bess); Judy Arnold (Beehive, Porgy & Bess), Laura Benedict Scott (Always Patsy Cline, Beehive), and Jill Blackwood (Cabaret, Urinetown). Restrictions: Event must take place on a Sunday evening by November 30, 2009. Gratuity not included.
  
  
• Exclusive Konstantino & Jewels Brunch at Neiman Marcus
  Value: $6,000
  
  Meet the man who exudes pride and passion for his creations at an intimate brunch for 20 on May 1, 2009. You and your lucky friends will dine with famed jewelry designer Konstantino at a private and exclusive brunch at Neiman Marcus and YOU will take home three original Konstantino creations! A sumptuous brunch will be provided.
  
  
• Summer of Love Party with Janis Joplin
  Value: Priceless
  
  An evening to rival no other! Gather 250 of your closest friends, don your Woodstock apparel and rock out at an exclusive performance of ZACH’s Love Janis, starring Austin’s one and only Andra Mitrovich as Janis Joplin, rock-n-roll’s most fabulous goddess! Your exclusive “Summer of Love“ party includes delicious catering for your guests on ZACH’s Deck under our tent. Relive old memories and create new ones with this once in a lifetime celebration for a milestone birthday or anniversary.
  
  
• Bee a Part of the Cast!
  Value: Priceless
  
  Your very own starring role on ZACH’s stage! BEE the envy of all your friends when you are featured as one of the Spelling Bee contestants on Opening Night of the Tony® Award-winning musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. The package includes 4 tickets for your fans and after the show you’ll join the cast for the festive opening night gala party.
  
  
• Trish Murphy concert and dinner for 30 at Café Josie
  Value: $6,000
  
  This incredible package includes an exclusive concert by Austin’s favorite Trish Murphy in addition to a fantastic dinner with wine from Café Josie. For 30 people, this is the perfect evening for a special occasion or just a great time with friends. Good for a pre-approved and mutually agreeable Sunday between June '09 - May '10. Contact Charles with calendar ideas well in advance of possible dates.
  
  
• Dinner for 10 with Luci Baines Johnson at Ranch 616
  Value: Priceless
  
  Enjoy this dinner for 8 with one of Austin’s living legends, Luci Baines Johnson. As the second daughter of President LBJ and Ladybird, Luci has many wonderful stories to share from her extraordinary life. This unforgettable night begins at Ranch 616 with a specialty drink outside on the patio around the fire pit. You will be escorted to dinner where a special menu has been created for your party. Take advantage of this unforgettable opportunity for a fantastic menu and the very best company.
  
  
• Perfect Pairing for 20 with Twin Liquors and Fete Accompli
  Value: $2,250
  
  This is your opportunity to learn about a variety of wine from Twin Liquors’ limitless cellar of wine and to enjoy its complimentary hors d’ oeuvres delicately designed by the chefs of Fete Accompli. Available for 20 guests in the classroom in Twin Liquors’ Hancock Center location, this will be the perfect party plan for you and your friends.
  
  
• Dinner for 10 in Larry Peel’s Wine Cellar with food from Mirabelle
  Value: $5,500
  
  If you live for fabulous wine, amazing food and good company, this is your package! Enjoy a dinner for 10 in wine aficionado Larry Peel’s home and catering from Mirabelle’s restaurant.

This year's Red, Hot & Soul event is at the Hilton Austin Downtown, this Saturday, April 4. To purchase a ticket, sponsor a table or make a donation to Austin's imaginative ZACH Theatre community, please visit the ZACH Theatre website.

ZACH Theatre's 2009 Red, Hot & Soul Gala
Event Chair: Larry Connelly
Event Co-Chair: Christine Horne
Honorary Event Co-Chairs: Laura & Tom Green

Video Blog: Au Revoir to SHOOTING STAR, A Romantic Comedy in its Last 2 Weeks on Stage

SHOOTING STAR cast members Jamie Goodwin and Barbara Chisholm made a video blog about their experience in ZACH's "smart and sweet romantic comedy" about two ex-lovers -- one from Austin, one from Boston -- who are unexpectedly reunited.



(Click here if the video doesn't load on your screen.)

The show is in its final 2 weeks of performance, but tickets are still available online to see the show. You can also purchase by phone at 512-476-0541, x1; our box office is open 12 noon to 7pm, Monday through Saturday.

Music Downloads: Tracks that Inspired THE GRAPES OF WRATH Musical Score

The live musical score put together by musical director Allen Robertson for THE GRAPES OF WRATH has generated a huge buzz in the Austin music community.

At once gracefully appropriated and historically accurate, the score adds another layer to this gorgeous production. But its origins have been somewhat of a mystery to ZACH audiences ...

... until now! Z-News readers, we are happy to present free music downloads of 6 tracks that inspired the lush melodic musings of THE GRAPES OF WRATH musical score:

• "Dust Bowl Children" by Peter Rowan
  (Performed by John Pointer in the show)
  
  
• "66" by Michael Smith
  (Performed by John Pointer, Zach Thompson and Paul Mitchell Wright)
  
  
• "Pastures of Plenty" by Woody Guthrie
  (Performed by Sarah Gay, John Pointer, Rich Upton, Paul Mitchell Wright, Zach Thompson, Marc Pouhe and Jarret Mallon)
  
  
• "Down to the River to Pray" by Alison Krauss
  (Performed by Sarah Gay, Rich Upton, John Pointer, Marc Pouhe and Zach Thompson)
  
  
• "I Ain't Got No Home" by Woody Guthrie
  (Performed by Rich Upton)
  
  
• "Pass Me Not, O' Gentle Savior" by Fanny J. Crosby and William H. Doane
  (Performed by Sarah Gay and John Pointer)

Enjoy the tunes, and stay tuned for more MP3 downloads from ZACH Theatre's original production.

If you still haven't see the show, please contact our box office at (512) 476-0541, x. 1 to reserve your tickets, or buy tickets online.