Publick playhouse season 2015 16

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | FALL 2015

we bring the

ENTERTAINMENT you bring the

JOY

THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION, PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

FALL 2015 Performance Calendar Look for the color to match your performance choice Purple

Weekend performances for all ages

Yellow

Weekday performances for youth and families

Green

Performances for seniors 60 and better

Orange

Classes, workshops and auditions for all ages unless otherwise stated

Pink

Art exhibits for all ages

17 “Let’s Drum!”

25 The Lightning Thief 26 Motown Tribute

8 Stories and Songs of Latin America 10 Linda Payton Reception 10 Mud Morganfield 15 Panda-monium 19 Mi Casa es Su Casa 23 Movie: The Good Lie 24 PRAISE Auditions 29 Petunia and Chicken

3 It Takes Courage 5 Madeline and the

3 Holidays Around the

Bad Hat 7 Black Violin 10 Native Pride Dancers 12 Monster Intelligence 19 & 20 Lula

Washington

Dance Theatre 19 Lula Washington Fusion 19 Repertory

Workshop with Lula Washington 20 Jazz Dance 20 Lula Washington Dunham/ Afro- Haitian/African 21 Lula Washington Dance Theatre

4 Movie: Last Vegas 5 Jordan Shackleford

World

Reception

5 Marsalis Christmas 10 Winter Wonderland 14 Season’s Greetings 18 & 19 Mistletunes 27 Kwanzaa

Prince George’s

PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE for the Performing Arts

The theatre was designed in the 1940s by John Eberson, and although it has undergone several renovations, the original art deco theme has been preserved. The building opened in 1947 as the Cheverly Theatre, a stylish movie theatre with plush seating for 900 and one of the first places in the area with air conditioning. The Cheverly was the flagship of the Sidney Lust chain of movie houses. In the late 1960s, the theatre fell into decline and closed. In 1975, The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission acquired the property and began an extensive restoration. In 1977, the Publick Playhouse opened as a cultural resource offering an annual season of top quality theatre, music and dance for all ages.

Theatre Hours: Administrative offices are open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-5 pm.

Box Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-5 pm and two hours before every performance. Everyone, regardless of ages, must have a ticket; children under the age of one who sit on parents’ laps will be issued a special ticket at no charge. A $25 fee will be assessed for returned checks. A $3 handling fee will be added to credit card orders.

Accessibility: The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation.

Renting the Playhouse: For information about renting the theatre, visit arts.pgparks.com or call 301-277-1710, TTY 301-699-2544. A rental brochure is also available.

Location: 5445 Landover Road (Route 202), Cheverly, MD 20784 at the intersection of Route 450. Patrons may take Metro Bus F1, F8, F2, or T18 or Prince George’s The Bus 18 to the theatre. (Connect to F2 Metro Bus from Cheverly Metro Station, or ride T18 Metro Bus from the New Carrollton Metro Station.)

Free parking at the theatre during performances, with new expanded parking to accommodate more patrons.

Driving Directions: From Maryland, take I-495 to the Baltimore/Washington Parkway South, exit at “Cheverly, Route 202” and turn right on Route 202. The theatre is 1/2 mile on the left.

From Washington, DC or Virginia, take New York Avenue or I-295 to the Baltimore/Washington Parkway and exit on Route 202. Turn left on Route 202. The theatre is 1/2 mile on the left. Parking behind and beside the theatre is free.

Contact: Phone 301-277-1710; TTY 301-699-2544; Fax 301-277-8816; arts.pgparks.com To get email updates about special events, programs, and performances, please contact PublickPlayhouse@pgparks.com

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 1

Jordan Shackleford 2 | SEPT-DEC 2015

EXHIBITIONS THROUGH THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 PUBLIC RECEPTION: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 6-7:30 PM

Lynda Payton The originator of Trans-Photo-Digital-Artistry presents abstract portraiture and graphic works employing her revolutionary trademarked process.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16-SATURDAY, JANUARY 9 PUBLIC RECEPTION: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 6-7:30 PM

Jordan Shackleford: To Be Young Drawings, oil paintings, and mixed media works on wood depict carefree childhood memories created by Cheverly native and Suitland High alumnus Jordan Shackleford.

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 3

PERFORMANCES

The Publick Playhouse is pleased to present the GEICO Gecko Series, a series of midweek matinees for youth generously supported by the GEICO Philanthropic Foundation. GEICO Gecko Series matinees are free to Title 1 Schools in Prince George’s County, giving young people the opportunity to experience outstanding performances at the Publick Playhouse.

Educators, look for the GEICO Gecko that identifies the performances, and call Group Sales at 301-277-1710 to reserve your space.

the BRENCORE ALLSTARS 4 | SEPT-DEC 2015

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 9:30 & 11:15 AM

“Let’s Drum!”

Children learn to play a variety of drums and get an introduction to rhythm, dynamics, and how to play in a group. All instruments are provided. Space is limited, reserve early. Recommended for grades Pre K-1.

Tickets: $5/students and observers

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

The Lightning Thief Characters from Percy Jackson’s Greek Mythology textbook come to life as Percy tries to find Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt, settle a conflict on Mount Olympus, and solve the riddle of the Oracle. Recommended for grades 2-6. Curriculum connections: Communication and Language Arts, Literature-Based, Music, Relationships and Family, Social Studies.

“Let’s Drum!”

Tickets: $8/person $6/groups of 20 or more

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 8 PM

Tribute to the Music of Motown by the BRENCORE ALLSTARS Don’t miss this great night of live entertainment featuring the biggest Motown hits in a series of medleys and powerhouse songs that will have you singing and dancing to your favorites all night long.

The Lighting Thief

Tickets: $30/general admission, $25/students, seniors & groups of 20 or more

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

GEICO Gecko Series:

Felix Pitre: Stories & Songs of Latin America Felix Pitre brings to life the culture of Latin America with puppetry, stories, songs, instruments and dance, performed in English interwoven with Spanish words and phrases. Recommended for grades K-3. Curriculum connections: Historical, Cultural and Social Context; World Languages.

Felix Piltre

Tickets: $8/person $6/groups of 20 or more; FREE to Title 1 Schools in Prince George’s County

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 5

Mud Morganfield 6 | SEPT-DEC 2015

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 8 PM

Mud Morganfield 2015 Blues Music Award winner -- “Best Traditional Blues Album of The Year”. Drawing on the legacy of his father, the legendary Muddy Waters, Mud Morganfield’s rich baritone voice, excellent timing, and engaging stage presence have made him a blues star. Backed by some of the best blues musicians in the business, he performs both classics and original songs.

Tickets: $30/general admission, $25/students, seniors & groups of 20 or more

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 9:30 AM & 11:15 AM

Bob Brown Puppets:

Panda-monium Master Puppeteer Bob Brown’s enchanting new production presents a delightful cast of adorable, multi-talented pandas and other Chinese circus performers in a 45-minute extravaganza of skill and daring. Recommended for grades Pre-K–1 Tickets: $5/person

MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

Mi Casa es Su Casa This entertaining program of live music and puppets brings to life the culture of Latin America and introduces some Spanish words and phrases. Recommended for grades K-5. Curriculum connections: Historical, Cultural and Social Context; World Languages.

Tickets: $8/person $6/groups of 20 or more

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 11 AM

Platinum Movie:

Mi Casa es Su Casa

The Good Lie Reese Witherspoon (“Walk the Line”) stars in this compelling, warm-hearted, and often funny film based on the true stories of Sudanese war refugees. For Seniors 60 and better.

Tickets: $2/person

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 10 AM-3 PM Application deadline: Friday, October 16, 5 pm

PRAISE Auditions Liturgical dance groups are invited to audition for the annual PRAISE Liturgical Dance Festival, held at the Playhouse each February. The 2016 performance will be held on Sunday, February 21, 4 pm. Participants are asked to bring a CD of the music and to perform one complete work in costume.

Pre-registration is required. Call 301-277-1710, TTY 301-699-2544.

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 7

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

GEICO Gecko Series:

Petunia and Chicken Based on the stories of Pulitzer Prize winning author Willa Cather, Petunia and Chicken depicts the struggles of life on the homestead with imagination, movement, and song, in this award-winning play that inspires students to learn more about the American frontier. Recommended for grades 6 and up.

Curriculum connections: American Literature, U.S. History, Social Studies, Music.

Tickets: $8/person, $6/groups of 20 or more; FREE to Title 1 Schools in Prince George’s County

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

It Takes Courage Different Americans faced different challenges but all had one thing in common: courage. Helen Keller, Franklin Roosevelt, Bill Gates and Justin Timberlake all overcame enormous obstacles to become inspiring figures for today’s youth. Bullying, disabilities and other issues facing kids today are explored in this remarkable program. Recommended for grades 2-6.

Curriculum Connections: Language Arts, Anti-Bullying, Character Education, History, Social Studies Tickets: $8/person $6/groups of 20 or more

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

Madeline and the Bad Hat Madeline doesn’t like her new next door neighbor, Pepito, but she eventually discovers that Pepito’s father is rarely at home and that her new neighbor is misbehaving because he is desperate for attention. When Madeline rescues Pepito from danger, they become friends and Madeline learns that first impressions aren’t everything. Recommended for grades K-2. Curriculum Connections: Language/Communication Skills, Literature-Based, Musical, Values-Based Madeline and the Bad Hat

8 | SEPT-DEC 2015

Tickets: $8/person, $6/groups of 20 or more

Pentunla and Chicken

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 9

10 | SEPT-DEC Black Violin 2015

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 8 PM

Black Violin “Rule No. 1 for a Black Violin show — this is a party!” proclaims this inventive, imaginative duo as they perform their groundbreaking blend of classical, hip-hop, rock, and R&B. Entertaining, intense and spellbinding, Black Violin has created a new genre of music that defies simple categorization and creates a sensation where ever they perform.

Tickets: $30/general admission, $25/students, seniors & groups of 20 or more

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

Native Pride Dancers Experience the excitement of a Native American powwow when the Native Pride Dancers share their rich cultural heritage of dance, music, stories, and costumes.

The beauty, skill, and majesty of dances passed down for centuries will inspire you to learn more about the rich traditions that honor elders, relatives, and animals. Enhanced by indigenous vocal and flute music, pulsating drumming and intricate footwork, the performance features award-winning dancer Larry Yazzie of the Meskwaki Nation. Recommended for all ages. Curriculum Connections: Language Arts, Physical Education/Health, Social Studies Tickets: $8/person $6/groups of 20 or more

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 9:30 AM & 11:15 AM

Monster Intelligence When Melvin the monster makes a birthday wish, the Division for Monster Screams grants his wish, provided he passes a test. Melvin sets off on a quest to learn and study, teaching kids about different learning styles and giving them confidence to tap into their own “monster intelligence.” Recommended for grades K-5. Curriculum Connections: Communication and Language Arts, Visual and Performing Arts, Relationships & Family, Music, Theatre Education, Values-Based, Self-Discovery.

Tickets: $5/person

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 11 AM & FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 11 AM

Monster Intelligence

Platinum Live:

Lula Washington Dance Theatre The renowned dance company presents a one-hour program created especially for seniors 60 and better.

Tickets: $10/person $8/groups of 20 or more Lula Washington Dance Theatre

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 11

Lula Washington Dance Theatre 12 | SEPT-DEC 2015

NOVEMBER 19 & 20

Workshops with Lula Washington Dance Theatre Class Fees: $20/person/class; $15 if purchased with a ticket to a November 21, 2015 performance; $10/observers

• THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 6:30-8 PM Fusion An open level class for students of all ages and skill levels. This fun, fast moving class focuses on a fusion of dance styles including ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, and African dance. Strengthening, stretching, and stamina building will be emphasized.

• THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 8-9:30 PM Repertory Workshop with Lula Washington Dance Theatre For intermediate/advanced modern dance lovers. This workshop focuses on teaching actual movements from the dance company’s range of dance works by choreographers as diverse as Donald McKayle, Christopher Huggins, Lula Washington, Tamica WashingtonMiller, and Rennie Harris. Dancers will learn to interpret the movement, and to execute phrases and varying dance styles with the proper approaches.

• FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 6:30-8 PM Jazz Dance For beginning to intermediate dancers. Students will learn classic jazz dance to high energy music. Lula, aided by members of her dance company, will teach dancers to twirl, kick, spin, leap, and do fantastic, fun movements.

• FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 8-9:30 PM Dunham/Afro-Haitian/African This workshop focuses on the Katherine Dunham style of dance. It blends African, Afro-Haitian and modern and ballet to create a distinct Dunham dance approach. Taught by Lula Washington, students will learn actual choreography created by Katherine Dunham, a pioneer African-American dance artist.

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 13

Marsalls Family 14 | SEPT-DEC 2015

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2 PM & 8 PM

Lula Washington Dance Theatre The nationally acclaimed dance company blends African, modern, ballet and performance art to create innovative and provocative dance pieces performed with powerful, high-energy artistry.

Tickets: $30/general admission, $25/students, seniors & groups of 20 or more

Lula Washington Dance Theatre

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

Holidays Around the World Join Nick and Joy as they travel home for the holidays. On the way they encounter people celebrating many different traditional holidays, including The Festival of Lights, Kwanzaa, The Lohri Festival of India, and even Chinese New Year. Experience the costumes, stories, and celebrations that occur around the globe during this special time of year. Recommended for Grades K – 5. Curriculum Connections: Social Studies, Language Arts.

Tickets: $8/person $6/groups of 20 or more

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 11 AM

Platinum Movie:

Holidays Around the World

Last Vegas Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas, Kevin Kline and Robert DeNiro star in this amiable comedy about old friends and a bachelor party. For Seniors 60 and better.

Tickets: $2/person

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 8 PM

A New Orleans Christmas with the Marsalis Family Celebrate the holidays and ‘Laissez Bon Temps Roulez!’ when the ‘First Family of Jazz’ comes from New Orleans with Big Easy entertainment and their incomparable jazz sound. Ellis Marsalis and his sons Jason and Delfeayo perform jazz interpretations of holiday favorites in a festive performance that makes a great gift. So treat your friends, loved ones and yourself to an evening of superb jazz.

Tickets: $30/general admission, $25/students, seniors & groups of 20 or more

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 15

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 9:30 AM & 11:15 AM

Bob Brown Puppets:

Winter Wonderland The amazing Bob Brown brings fun friends to the Playhouse to show kids how to enjoy the cold weather. Snowmen, snowflakes and lots of wacky winter fun make this a show to beat the winter blues. Recommended for Grades Pre-K–3.

Tickets: $5/person

MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 10:15 AM & 12 NOON

GEICO Gecko Series:

Season’s Greetings There’s holiday magic galore in this fast-moving, festive winter wonderland that features a levitating elf, a dancing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, toy soldiers, and more. Recommended for all ages.

Tickets: $8/person, $6/groups of 20 or more; FREE to Title 1 Schools in Prince George’s County

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 11 AM & SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2 PM

Mistletunes Rock N’ Roll Multicultural Holiday Celebration Sing along in this show packed with everyone’s favorite rockin’ holiday songs celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanaukah and more!

Tickets: $10/person

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27, 4 PM

Kwanzaa-It’s Kujichagulia!

Join in the traditional storytelling, song and ceremony in a joyous Kwanzaa celebration, presented by legendary storyteller, Queen Nur. Tickets: $20/general admission, $15/students, seniors & groups of 20 or more

16 | SEPT-DEC 2015

PRINCE GEORGE’S PUBLICK PLAYHOUSE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 17

PPC PR-ACHD-8/15

COVER PHOTO: © iStock.com

Prince George’s County Public Schools is not sponsoring, endorsing, or recommending the activities announced in this material/flyer.

The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities.

Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. PPC-PR-ACHD 9/14

The GEICO Gecko Series is generously supported by the GEICO Philanthropic Foundation

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts is a facility of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks & Recreation, Prince George’s County, Arts and Cultural Heritage Division.

301-277-1710; TTY 301-699-2544. http://arts.pgparks.com

5445 Landover Road, Cheverly, MD 20784

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