FPAC’S Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Plays Three Final Shows This Weekend

Franklin Performing Arts Company’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat concludes its six-show run this weekend at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin. Remaining show times are Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at 7:30, as well as Sunday, March 18 at 2:00. The hit family musical is a colorful and uplifting show for audiences of all ages.

Based on the biblical Joseph story, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat follows the trials and triumphs of Jacob’s favorite son in a high-adventure retelling of epic proportions. The lively Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical is entirely sung-through and boasts catchy songs of many musical styles, from country western and calypso to pop, disco, and rock ’n’ roll. Musical Director Hallie Wetzell leads the production’s professional orchestra.

Andrew Scott Holmes

Andrew Scott Holmes returns to the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) stage to star in the title role, after almost two years at sea working for Princess Cruises as a Resident Guest Entertainer. An Actor’s Equity Association member, he has played leading roles and understudied Broadway stars at regional theaters, from Goodspeed Opera House to Great Lakes Theater to Playhouse Square and beyond. Andrew received his Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre from Baldwin Wallace University.

Franklin’s Ali Funkhouser (The Narrator) returns to Joseph for the third time, having appeared in the children’s ensemble of the 2004 national tour starring Patrick Cassidy and as The Narrator during her time at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Other credits include the national tour of Evita, Legally Blonde with The LEX, and Puccini’s Suor Angelica with Chelsea Opera (NYC). An Equity Membership Candidate, Ali will receive her Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Theatre from Oklahoma City University this spring.

Nick Paone, also from Franklin, performs the roles of Pharoah and Jacob. A former Equity actor, Nick has written and directed numerous shows, produced an evening of one-act plays in NYC, and traveled extensively performing with Theater Works. A frequent FPAC performer and director, Nick is the creative mind behind FPAC’s annual holiday pantos and original productions Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera and Zero: A Musical Fable.

Casey Harkness Andrade (Mrs. Potiphar), of Lincoln, RI, has been a professional choreographer, educator, and performer for more than 10 years. An adjunct faculty member at Rhode Island College, Casey is an adjudicator and choreographer for the Elite Dance Challenge regional and national competition. Recent FPAC credits include The Addams Family (Morticia) and Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Raye Lynn Mercer directs FPAC’s production, which also features many local performers and students of the arts, including a children’s choir. FPAC Costumer Merrie Whitney, of Franklin, has designed the entire show, with special attention to Joseph’s iconic coat. Middlesex Savings Bank is the Production Sponsor. 

Tickets are $34, with general seating. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX theater, music, and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is presented by arrangement with The Musical Company, LP.

FPAC’S Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Opens This Weekend at THE BLACK BOX

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents the hit family musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, opening this weekend at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin. Staged for six performances, show times are Saturday, March 10 at 2:00 and 7:30; Sunday, March 11 at 2:00; Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at 7:30; and Sunday, March 18 at 2:00. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a colorful and uplifting show for audiences of all ages.

Andrew Scott Holmes

Based on the biblical Joseph story, the lively Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical follows the trials and triumphs of Jacob’s favorite son in a high-adventure retelling of epic proportions. The musical is entirely sung-through and boasts catchy songs of many musical styles, from country western and calypso to pop, disco, and rock ’n’ roll. Musical Director Hallie Wetzell leads the production’s professional orchestra.

Andrew Scott Holmes returns to the FPAC stage to star in the title role, after almost two years at sea working for Princess Cruises as a Resident Guest Entertainer. An Actor’s Equity Association member, he has played leading roles and understudied Broadway stars at regional theaters, from Goodspeed Opera House to Great Lakes Theater to Playhouse Square and beyond. Andrew received his Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre from Baldwin Wallace University.

Ali Funkhouser

Franklin’s Ali Funkhouser (The Narrator) returns to Joseph for the third time, having appeared in the children’s ensemble of the 2004 national tour starring Patrick Cassidy and as The Narrator during her time at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Other credits include the national tour of Evita, Legally Blonde with The LEX, and Puccini’s Suor Angelica with Chelsea Opera (NYC). An Equity Membership Candidate, Ali will receive her Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Theatre from Oklahoma City University this spring.

Nick Paone, also from Franklin, performs the roles of Pharoah and Jacob. A former Equity actor, Nick has written and directed numerous shows, produced an evening of one-act plays in NYC, and traveled extensively performing with Theater Works. A frequent FPAC performer and director, Nick is the creative mind behind FPAC’s annual holiday pantos and original productions Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera and Zero: A Musical Fable.

Casey Harkness Andrade (Mrs. Potiphar), of Lincoln, RI, has been a professional choreographer, educator, and performer for more than 10 years. An adjunct faculty member at Rhode Island College, Casey is an adjudicator and choreographer for the Elite Dance Challenge regional and national competition. Recent FPAC credits include The Addams Family (Morticia) and Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Raye Lynn Mercer directs FPAC’s production, which also features many local performers and students of the arts, including a children’s choir. FPAC Costumer Merrie Whitney, of Franklin, has designed the entire show, with special attention to Joseph’s iconic coat. Middlesex Savings Bank is the Production Sponsor. 

Tickets are $34, with general seating. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX theater, music, and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street. 

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is presented by arrangement with The Musical Company, LP.

FPAC To Stage Three Holiday Season Productions

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) celebrates the holidays with three festive productions. Ring in the season with Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet The Nutcracker, FPAC’s original musical ’Tis the Season!, and the Company’s third annual holiday panto, with a twist on a fairy tale classic.

The Nutcracker remains a highly anticipated and treasured part of the FPAC season – a popular holiday tradition for more than 20 years. Set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, the world-famous ballet delights the imaginations of audiences of all ages with festive magic and colorful splendor. FPAC’s production is presented with professional orchestra, special guest artists, and more than 100 area dancers. 

FPAC invites audiences to fall under Drosselmeyer’s dreamy spell and join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a journey full of surprises and wonder. FPAC presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 3 at 2 p.m. at the Franklin High School auditorium, located at 218 Oak Street. Middlesex Savings Bank is The Nutcracker 2017 Production Sponsor.

FPAC To Stage 3 Holiday Season Productions

’Tis the Season! is an original large cast musical first presented by FPAC in 1995. The upbeat, jazzy holiday extravaganza features members of the Kenny Hadley Big Band and contemporary arrangements of favorite holiday classics in musical styles ranging from R&B, gospel, and Motown to rock, pop, and Broadway. FPAC presents ’Tis the Season! at the Franklin High School auditorium on Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 10 at 2 p.m.

FPAC’s original panto will be staged at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin on Friday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m., with two shows on Saturday, December 23 at 2:00 and 7:30. The production follows in the British tradition, retelling a well-known fairy tale in an exaggerated style filled with audience participation, popular music, slapstick comedy, jokes, dances, and more. Audiences are invited to cheer for the hero, boo at the villain, and sing along to favorite songs. The panto also entertains with double entendre, references to modern culture, and open satire of other works. THE BLACK BOX theatre, music, and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street. 

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment and outstanding performance opportunities for professional artists, community performers, and students of the arts. With a focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, FPAC celebrates its 27th season. 

Tickets are $32, $34, and $36 for The Nutcracker and ’Tis the Season!, with a $34 ticket price for the holiday panto. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com.

Dean College performs Legally Blonde - Nov 15 through Nov 19

Dean College performs Legally Blonde.
 
Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 film of the same name, Legally Blonde tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner. 

Right from the start, Elle encounters negative reactions from both the establishment and the university’s students. In the course of this musical, however, she not only discovers that her knowledge of the law can help others, but she also realizes an equally important faith in herself.

Clive Barnes, in his New York Post review, wrote that he loved the "effervescent and radiant Laura Belle Bundy” (the original Elle Woods), and that the "dances certainly have a slick snap, crackle, and pop."


November 15th-18th at 7:30pm
November 18th & 19th at 2:00pm

Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin

Book by Heather Hach


Tickets available http://www.dean.edu/legallyblonde2017/

Dean College performs Legally Blonde - Nov 15 through Nov 19

Q&A with the Cast and Director of Legally Blonde, a Dean College Theatre Production

The School of the Arts at Dean College presents Legally Blonde, beginning Wednesday, November 15 through Sunday, November 19, 2017. Based on a novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 film of the same name, Legally Blonde tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner.

Director Alison Angelone along with actresses Sierra Key '18 (Elle Woods) and Briana Bronzetti '18 (Paulette Bonafonte) answered a few questions to get us acquainted with the upcoming Dean College production.

Q&A with the cast:

Q. What is your role in the performance? Tell us about your character:

Sierra Key (Elle Woods): Elle Woods is a Malibu girl, president of Delta Nu Sorority and a UCLA fashion merchandising major who follows her college sweetheart to Harvard Law School. She starts Harvard Law with a passion for her ex, Warner, and ends up with a passion for law. This is Elle Woods’ journey and fight to follow her passion to becoming a successful lawyer.

Briana Bronzetti (Paulette Bonafonte): Paulette is a spunky, brassy, fun-loving, down-to-earth, honest, kind woman with a killer sense of style. She works at The Hair Affair Salon where she meets Elle Woods. She has great comedic timing and a New England/Massachusetts accent. She is unapologetically herself 100% of the time.

Q. Can you see yourself in this character? If so, how:

Sierra Key (Elle Woods): Elle Woods and I have a great relationship. Coming to a New England liberal arts program from North Carolina was a big change in my life, similar to Elle Woods and her journey from California to Massachusetts. Elle Woods is constantly put down about her new decision to become a successful lawyer, a feeling that I can relate to as a student pursuing a theatre degree. Elle inspires me through her ability to prove her worth even when others doubt her. As this rehearsal process progresses, I continue to find personal connections to this character and story.

Briana Bronzetti (Paulette Bonafonte): Absolutely! This is a dream role of mine. She reminds me of my Aunt Myrna who has the same style and accent as Paulette. I definitely see myself in Paulette, especially when it comes to her always being herself – genuine, honest and funny. I think this is by far the most fun and challenging role I’ve ever had.

Q. What are you most excited for the audience to see?

Sierra Key (Elle Woods): Legally Blonde is not just the energetic musical you are expecting, but a show that is filled with life lessons and portrayed honestly on stage. I can't wait for the community to see this authentic production and be taken on Elle Woods' journey.

Briana Bronzetti (Paulette Bonafonte): I am most excited for the audience to see Paulette’s honesty. She is so naturally funny, without trying to be. This part can be easily performed very over the top, but she doesn’t have to be. She is funnier if it’s coming from a more honest place. That is something that our director Ali Angelone and I have been talking about a lot during this process. I am excited and hopeful that the audience will feel like they can relate to her!

Questions with the director:

Q. What inspired you to become the director of Dean College’s production of Legally Blonde?

Alison Angelone: Legally Blonde is a musical that I have always wanted to direct and choreograph. I am particularly inspired by Miss Elle Woods. She is an incredibly driven and strong-willed character who makes a difficult life decision and despite the challenges and constant criticism she receives, is determined to succeed. She serves as a reminder to us all that if we work hard enough and never give up, we can achieve greatness. I feel very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to direct this production at Dean College.

Q. What can a person expect when they go to see Legally Blonde?

Alison Angelone: Audiences can expect to see a “triple threat” production. One that is filled with a variety of acting, singing and dancing delivered by a cast and crew who tell Elle’s story authentically and with lots of flare! Laughter is on our menu!

Q. Talk about casting…what is the selection process?

Alison Angelone: I have directed and choreographed many productions in my career, but none were as difficult to cast as this one! We had a total of 100 extremely talented students audition for Legally Blonde! Everyone was required to sing 32 bars of an up-tempo contemporary song from the musical theatre repertoire, as well as participate in a rigorous dance audition. I called back a total of 60 people and cast 43. I have never worked with a cast this large before, but our students are so incredibly talented, they made it so difficult for me to say no. After auditions and callbacks, it took me 24 hours to come up with a final cast list. I love how dedicated our students are to their craft!

Legally Blonde, a Dean College Theatre Production

Q. What are you most excited for the audience to see?

Alison Angelone: Legally Blonde is a musical that appeals to all generations. We all face life challenges. We fail, we get back up, we fight, we love, we give, we take, we lose, we learn and we continue to grow. And in the end, we just might succeed. We are so excited to share Elle’s journey with the audience!

The Dean College production of Legally Blonde will take place in the Main Stage in the Campus Center at Dean College, 99 Main Street, Franklin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday – Saturday and 2:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 

Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin. Book by Heather Hach. Legally Blonde is based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit www.dean.edu/boxoffice.

Dean College is a private, residential New England college grounded in a culture and tradition that all students deserve the opportunity for academic and personal success. A uniquely supportive community for more than 150 years, Dean has woven together extensive student support and engagement with exceptional teaching and innovative campus activities. Our graduates are lifetime learners who thrive in their careers, embrace social responsibility and demonstrate leadership. This is The Dean Difference.

Spamalot at THE BLACK BOX - 3 shows - Oct 27, 28, 29

Friday, Oct. 27, 7:30 PM

Saturday, Oct. 28, 7:30 PM

Sunday, Oct. 29, 2:00 PM

THE BLACK BOX

Monty Python's Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur’s quest to find the Holy Grail. Inspired by the classic comedy film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the musical also diverts a bit from more traditional versions of the legend. Instead, Spamalot features shennanigans including a line of beautiful dancing girls, a flatulent Frenchmen and killer rabbits. Outside, there is plague with a 50% chance of pestilence and famine. 

 

Throughout the show, Arthur, traveling with his servant Patsy, recruits several knights to accompany him on his quest, including Sir Bedevere, Sir Robin, Sir Lancelot and Sir Galahad. Besides the rabbits and farting Frenchman, they meet such characters as the Lady of the Lake, Prince Herbert, Tim the Enchanter, Not Dead Fred, the Black Knight and the Knights who say Ni. 

 

The 2005 Broadway production won three Tony Awards, including “Best Musical” and received 14 Tony Award nominations.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

 

 

Spamalot at THE BLACK BOX - 3 shows - Oct 27, 28, 29

LiveARTS String Quartet - Oct 22

The LiveARTS String Quartet is scheduled to perform on Sunday, October 22, 2017 at 3:00 PM. The program will feature works of Mozart, Shostakovich, and Brahms.

LiveARTS String Quartet - Oct 22

The String Quartet:

• Katherine Winterstein, violin
• Gregory Vitale, violin,
• Donald Krishnaswami, viola
• Jan Müller-Szeraws, cello

When: October 22, 2017 - 3:00 pm
Where: Meetinghouse of the First Universalist Society; 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA

Tickets:
$20 Adults
$15 Seniors
Students under 18 free


For additional info visit LiveARTS on the internet at
http://www.liveartsma.org/

NYC Vocalist To Lead Monty Python’s Spamalot At THE BLACK BOX

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents Monty Python’s Spamalot on October 21-22 and 27-29. The production will be staged at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin.

A hilarious retelling of the legendary tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, the musical parody is inspired by the 1975 classic comedy film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and likewise diverts from more traditional versions of the legend. Monty Python’s Spamalot features irreverent shenanigans including a bevy of beautiful showgirls, a flatulent Frenchman, and killer rabbits. Outside there is plague with a 50 percent chance of pestilence and famine. 

Throughout the show, Arthur, traveling with his servant, Patsy, recruits several knights, including Sir Bedevere, Sir Robin, Sir Lancelot, and Sir Galahad, to accompany him on his quest. They meet such memorable characters as the Lady of the Lake, Prince Herbert, Tim the Enchanter, and Not Dead Fred. With book and lyrics by Eric Idle and music by Idle and John Du Prez, the 2005 Broadway production won three Tony Awards, including Best Musical, after receiving 14 Tony Award nominations.

Paige Martins of New York City leads the cast as the Lady of the Lake. Martins is an alumna of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts and toured Europe as a member of Electric Youth. With a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Miami, her vocal versatility and expertise in a wide range of styles has been showcased in venues worldwide from the Ariston Theatre in Italy to the exclusive Schönbrunn Palace in Austria. 

For the past three years, Paige has traveled to more than 50 countries performing with a variety of bands and captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals. With FPAC, Paige has been seen in Footloose (Ariel Moore), ’Tis the Season! (Featured Vocalist), and The Sound of Music. 

The talented cast of area performers in Monty Python’s Spamalot includes Greg Leach (King Arthur), Nick Paone (Sir Lancelot), Peter Wyner (Sir Bedevere), Jim Braunstein (Sir Galahad), and Jason Barney (Patsy) of Franklin and Griffin Wilkins (Sir Robin) of Walpole. Nick Paone and Raye Lynn Mercer direct the production, with choreography by Mercer, Casey Harkness Andrade and Kellie Stamp. 

The show features a professional orchestra conducted by FPAC Musical Director Hallie Wetzell of Franklin. The show’s lighting design, by Franklin’s Nathaniel Packard, includes the iconic Monty Python animated projections. Original costumes for the FPAC production are designed by Merrie Whitney of Franklin.

Show times are October 21, 27, and 28 at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. on October 22 and 29. Tickets are $34. Monty Python’s Spamalot is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide, New York. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com and www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

NYC Vocalist To Lead Monty Python’s Spamalot At THE BLACK BOX

"Six Characters in Search of An Author" - Through Oct 15

"The Dean College School of the Arts in now playing its first theatre production of the year, Six Characters in Search of An Author. The show opens TONIGHT and will run through this Sunday, October 15, 2017.

Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to purchase your tickets TODAY!

Wondering what the performance is about? Well, we sat down with guest director Eric Parness to get the answers to your questions and take us on his journey of adapting this great work for the Dean College production."

Continue reading the Q and A with Eric Parness
http://www.dean.edu/dean_college_blog_now_playing_six_characters_in_search_of_an_author/

"Six Characters in Search of An Author" - Through Oct 15

3 showings this weekend of "God of Carnage" at THE BLACK BOX

OPENING FRIDAY NIGHT! Performances are Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30 at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. on October 1.  Come to THE BLACK BOX for an evening or matinee of laughter as Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) opens its 27th season with award-winning playwright Yasmin Reza's God of Carnage, presented September 29-October 1.  Winner of the 2009 Tony Award for Best Play, the acclaimed dark comedy takes place in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn, where civility unravels as two sets of parents discuss how to deal with a playground altercation that occurred between the couples' sons the previous day.   Alan and Annette's son hit Michael and Veronica's son in the face with a stick, resulting in two broken teeth. The four of them agree to discuss the incident civilly, but, as the night wears on and drinks are imbibed, the polite veneer breaks down.  The couples initially spar against each other, but the men gang up on the women and the spouses switch sides as the fighting continues. Reza's God of Carnage suggests that our civilized trappings do a poor job of hiding our venality and bile.  Directed by Nick Paone, God of Carnage features Paone (Alan), Greg Leach (Michael), and Hallie Wetzell (Veronica), all from Franklin, and Westport's Kellie Stamp (Annette). Some adult language; material may not be suitable for young children. God of Carnage is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com and www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

Franklin Performing Arts Company uses Vendini for ticketing, marketing, and box office management.

Franklin Performing Arts Company - PO Box 48, 15 West Central Street, Franklin, MA, 02038, (508) 528-3370
Vendini, Inc. - 660 Market Street, San Francisco, CA, 94104, 1 (800) 901-7173

View as a web page.

Dean College Presents: "Six Characters in Search of an Author" - Oct 11-15

The School of the Arts at Dean College will perform Six Characters in Search of an Author, beginning Wednesday, October 11 through Sunday, October 15, 2017.

This compelling play is juxtaposed as six characters arrive unexpectedly during the rehearsal of a play in search of an author to complete their story. Audiences for over 90 years have enjoyed and mused on the dilemma provided by the arrival of the “out of time and place” individuals. Do not miss this early absurdist play exploring the relationship among authors, their characters, and those involved in theater productions.

The Dean College production of Six Characters in Search of an Author will take place in the Main Stage in the Campus Center at Dean College, 99 Main Street, Franklin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday – Saturday and 2:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. General admission is $22, Seniors $12 and Children $7.

To learn more and purchase tickets, visit www.dean.edu/boxoffice.

Dean College is a private, residential New England college grounded in a culture and tradition that all students deserve the opportunity for academic and personal success. A uniquely supportive community for more than 150 years, Dean has woven together extensive student support and engagement with exceptional teaching and innovative campus activities. Our graduates are lifetime learners who thrive in their careers, embrace social responsibility and demonstrate leadership. This is The Dean Difference.

Dean College Presents: "Six Characters in Search of an Author" - Oct 11-15

3 performances of "God of Carnage" this weekend

Friday, Sept. 29, 7:30 PM
Saturday, Sept 30, 7:30 PM
Sunday, Oct. 1, 2:00 PM

Boys fight. Parents meet.Carnage happens.

Winner of the 2009 Tony Award – Best Play, God of Carnage takes place in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn, where two sets of parents discuss how to deal with an unfortunate incident that occurred in Cobble Hill Park the previous day.

Tickets: $26

Some adult language; material may not be suitable for young children. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com and www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

"God Of Carnage" Opens FPAC’s 27th Season

"God Of Carnage" Opens FPAC’s 27th Season

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) opens its 27th season with award-winning playwright Yasmin Reza’s God of Carnage, presented September 29-October 1. Winner of the 2009 Tony Award for Best Play, the acclaimed dark comedy takes place in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn, where civility unravels as two sets of parents discuss how to deal with a playground altercation that occurred between the couples’ sons the previous day. Alan and Annette’s son hit Michael and Veronica’s son in the face with a stick, resulting in two broken teeth. 

The four of them agree to discuss the incident civilly, but, as the night wears on and drinks are imbibed, the polite veneer breaks down. The couples initially spar against each other, but the men gang up on the women and the spouses switch sides as the fighting continues. Reza’s God of Carnage suggests that our civilized trappings do a poor job of hiding our venality and bile.

"God Of Carnage" Opens FPAC’s 27th Season

Directed by Nick Paone, God of Carnage features Paone (Alan), Greg Leach (Michael), and Hallie Wetzell (Veronica), all from Franklin, and Westport’s Kellie Stamp (Annette). Performances are Friday, October 29 and Saturday, October 30 at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. on October 1. 

The production is staged at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue, located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. Tickets are $26. God of Carnage is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York. 

Some adult language; material may not be suitable for young children. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com and www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

Franklin School For The Performing Arts Celebrates Fall Expansion

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will expand this fall to assume the entire building of the Felix Cataldo Block in downtown Franklin. The renovation will connect all areas of the existing FSPA facility and provide spacious new dance and music studios, and a first floor waiting area for students and families. The expansion will also create and house Intermission, a new downtown cafe available to the FSPA community and open to the public.

“It will be exciting for FSPA to occupy the entire Cataldo Block and to have easy access throughout the building to all of our studios, offices, The Spotlight Shop, and the new Intermission café,” noted Raye Lynn Mercer, FSPA founder and director. “We look forward to FSPA’s updated presence in the downtown and the opportunity to provide a destination at Intermission where the public is invited to enjoy a menu of drinks and snacks in a space with an eclectic, artsy ambiance. Happily our beautiful old buidling is getting a facelift as we expand our performing arts campus.”

Founded in 1985 by Director Raye Lynn Mercer, FSPA is dedicated to the enjoyment of the arts for all ages and to the artistic growth and development of young people. The school offers classes in all dance disciplines, acting, musical theater, voice, and instrumental instruction, whether for recreational enjoyment or serious study. FSPA is also home to the Little Music School, teaching children as young as 18 months to play the piano, as well as the FSPA Ballet Conservatory with pre-professional training for young dancers. 

An extensive calendar of performing opportunities features all-student musicals, plays, ballets, voice and instrumental recitals, opera scenes, dance and musical theater showcases, and more. Student ensembles include dance companies, glee club and musical theater troupes, as well as the international touring ensemble Electric Youth, featuring students trained at the school. Many FSPA students are also cast, by audition, in the affiliated Franklin Performing Arts Company’s annual season of shows. FSPA TALENT offers management services for young performers who elect to pursue professional opportunities.

The added space at 38 Main now allows FSPA to offer more classes at optimum times during the week and to build upon several innovative programs launched over the past few years. FSPA Academy, introduced last fall, provides an academic alternative for students seeking a challenging curriculum in a supportive, flexible environment that encourages their creative goals. Provided Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in collaboration with TEC Connections Academy Commonwealth Virtual School (TECCA), the FSPA Academy delivers TECCA’s state-approved online curriculum and features an enhanced emphasis on arts, language and culture, including Music Theory, foreign language conversation classes, cultural field trips and more. 

In addition, an FSPA AfterSchool enrichment program offers supervised recreational experiences, including games, crafts and other creative arts activities, for students in grades K-5. The program begins at the close of the regular school day, with transportation available from Franklin and Medway schools and supervised transition back and forth to FSPA for performing arts classes.

“As we begin our 33rd season, we look forward to welcoming new students and families to FSPA for fun and recreation or for preparation for college and career,” said Mercer. “With the renovation and expansion, it will certainly be a very exciting back-to-school season for our faculty, staff, student families, and our entire community!”

FSPA will host Open Houses on Saturday, September 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Tuesday, September 19 from 4-8 p.m. at 38 Main Street in downtown Franklin. The community is invited to tour the facilities, observe classes and rehearsals, speak with faculty and staff, and learn more about FSPA programs in music, dance, and drama. An early October grand opening is slated for Intermission.

Fall classes begin on September 11, with ongoing registration for all programs. Call (508) 528-8668 or visit www.FSPAonline.com for more information, including a catalogue and class schedule.

Franklin School For The Performing Arts  Celebrates Fall Expansion

Day 3 Schedule - 3rd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival - Friday, July 28

*** FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
FPS Student Music Concert Band, Orchestra, Chorus students

*** FRANKLIN TOWN COMMON

12:00 to 6:00: Farmers’ Market
3:00 to 4:30: Attleboro School of Rock Show Team (canceled)
5:00 to 6:00: Let’s Laugh Today - Laughter Yoga
6:30 to 8:00: Kevin Wolfe (music performance)
8:00 to 9:30? FPAC performs "The Mikado"

3rd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival Schedule: Friday, July 28, 2017

* note the schedule is subject to change
If you are interested in getting updates on the Franklin Cultural Festival please check out the webpage http://www.franklinsculturalfestival.org/ or follow the Festival on Twitter https://twitter.com/artshappenhere
 


All roads should lead to The Rome Restaurant in Franklin either before or after taking in one or more of the events at the Cultural Festival. 

"Festival Fettucini" is the Rome's standard Fettucini Alfredo 
with mushrooms added, quite a healthy portion and delicious!

The Rome will feature "Festival Fettucini" from 4:00 PM to closing each night Wednesday, July 26 through Saturday, July 29.  The culinary arts are one of the key arts that the Festival is looking to showcase. Franklin has a broad variety of culinary choices! 
http://www.franklinculturaldistrict.org/2017/07/stop-by-rome-for-festival-fettucini.html

To help financially support the Festival please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/FCF2017. 

The tri-fold flyer with the full schedule can be downloaded here https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczZFlnZFNMV1puWkE/view?usp=sharing

Day 4 Schedule - 3rd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival - Saturday, July 29

3rd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival

Performance Schedule

Saturday, July 29

At THE BLACK BOX

The Franklin Art Association will display works of local artists in the lobby of THE BLACK BOX.   The detailed schedule of performances looks like this:

	Festival Stage (inside)	Circle of Friends Stage (outside, under the tent)
	Set up
12:00 - 12:30 PM	Heath Nisbett	Set up
12:30 - 1:30 PM	Set up	Michele Kelly
1:30 - 2:00 PM	Emma Newton	Set up
2:00 - 3:00 PM	Set up	Jamie Barrett
3:00 - 3:30 PM	Universal Singers	Set up
3:30 - 4:30 PM	Set up	Stefilia's Stone
4:30 - 5:00 PM	Ann Sears	Set up
5:00 - 6:00 PM	Set up	Jim Henry
6:00 - 6:30 PM	Kaye Kelly	Set up
6:30 - 8:00 PM	Set up	Victims of Gravity
8:00 PM	FPAC performs a “24 Hour Play”

Bring your beach blanket and chairs for the 'Franklin lawn' in THE BLACK BOX parking lot (seating limited under the tent, first come first serve).

For updates to the schedule, follow @artshappenhere

Franklin restaurants will offer samples of their best for sale under the tent during the afternoon

All roads should lead to The Rome Restaurant in Franklin either before or after taking in one or more of the events at the Cultural Festival. 

The Rome will feature "Festival Fettucini" from 4:00 PM to closing each night Wednesday, July 26 through Saturday, July 29.  The culinary arts are one of the key arts that the Festival is looking to showcase. Franklin has a broad variety of culinary choices! 
http://www.franklinculturaldistrict.org/2017/07/stop-by-rome-for-festival-fettucini.html


If you are interested in getting updates on the Franklin Cultural Festival please check out the webpage http://buff.ly/2tUhSCL or follow the Festival on Twitter http://buff.ly/2tqlid1

To help financially support the Festival please visit: http://buff.ly/2tqGcZh.

The tri-fold flyer with the full schedule can be downloaded here 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczZFlnZFNMV1puWkE/view?usp=sharing

You can also download and print a copy of the Saturday schedule here
https://docs.google.com/document/d/10DSpiywIulafMNpPpj5a1ajiY_Gk-jBVXlH15dMS7f4/edit?usp=sharing