COMING SOON...
STAY TUNED!
Better days are ahead. We are hoping to bring you some stellar entertainment in the next few months. We are currently editing a short film titled, Become Undone and we hope to submit it to film festivals throughout fall and winter 2021. We'll keep you posted!
Better days are ahead. We are hoping to bring you some stellar entertainment in the next few months. We are currently editing a short film titled, Become Undone and we hope to submit it to film festivals throughout fall and winter 2021. We'll keep you posted!
~ARCHIVES~
The show that almost was... but a global pandemic had other plans...
(We still hope to bring this show to you sometime in the near future.)
THINNER THAN WATER
a drama-comedy
written by Melissa Ross
March 2020
(We still hope to bring this show to you sometime in the near future.)
THINNER THAN WATER
a drama-comedy
written by Melissa Ross
March 2020
Featuring (from top, clockwise): Carly Dreme Calbreath as
"Cassie," Tesia Nicoli as "Renee," and Justin Doncsecz as "Gary."
"Cassie," Tesia Nicoli as "Renee," and Justin Doncsecz as "Gary."
A BIG SCORE FOR GIG IN 2020!
(A few things good things happened in 2020.)
For the second year in a row, Team GIG made it as a finalist in the 100 Hour Film Race. 15 short films were chosen out of 71 entries.
In 2020, we were so proud to announce that our 2019 short film, Torn was also named one of the Top 5 Best Films in the 100 Hour Film Race AND it won in the "Best Writing" category! Congrats to Team GIG!
This film was directed by Christian Twiste and written by Tesia Nicoli. Geoffrey Ciani was editor, DP, and cinematographer. Scott Hackett worked on sound and was our boom mic operator.
Cast:
Tesia Nicoli (as Miranda)
Ryan MacNamara (as Morris)
Lisa Goulian-Twiste (as Crying Woman)
Christian Twiste (as Man in Woods)
Jada Makenzi (as Miranda double)
Click HERE to watch a short trailer for Torn.
Click HERE to see a Behind the Scenes Video.
Click HERE to watch the short film.
(A few things good things happened in 2020.)
For the second year in a row, Team GIG made it as a finalist in the 100 Hour Film Race. 15 short films were chosen out of 71 entries.
In 2020, we were so proud to announce that our 2019 short film, Torn was also named one of the Top 5 Best Films in the 100 Hour Film Race AND it won in the "Best Writing" category! Congrats to Team GIG!
This film was directed by Christian Twiste and written by Tesia Nicoli. Geoffrey Ciani was editor, DP, and cinematographer. Scott Hackett worked on sound and was our boom mic operator.
Cast:
Tesia Nicoli (as Miranda)
Ryan MacNamara (as Morris)
Lisa Goulian-Twiste (as Crying Woman)
Christian Twiste (as Man in Woods)
Jada Makenzi (as Miranda double)
Click HERE to watch a short trailer for Torn.
Click HERE to see a Behind the Scenes Video.
Click HERE to watch the short film.
THREE FORTUNES
a NEW original Drama/Comedy
directed by Rachel Williams
written by local actress and playwright - Tesia Nicoli
MAY 10, 11, 17, 18, 2019 at 7:30pm
and 12, & 19 at 3pm
This show will be co-produced with
Between the Lines Studio Theatre!
Gwen has spent many years burying a heart-wrenching incident that changed her life forever. But now that very incident has resurfaced. When a fortune teller delivers three mysteriously precise fortunes, Gwen can no longer carry on as though nothing has changed. As she confesses to her closest friends - Penny and Jonathan - they are also impacted by this news. When this incredible revelation turns into pure shock, friendship is put to the test. Through the humor of whimsical Penny, endearing Jonathan, and boisterous Lanahan the landlady, an engaging adventure ensues. The sweeping emotions pull you in and take you for an unforgettable ride.
a NEW original Drama/Comedy
directed by Rachel Williams
written by local actress and playwright - Tesia Nicoli
MAY 10, 11, 17, 18, 2019 at 7:30pm
and 12, & 19 at 3pm
This show will be co-produced with
Between the Lines Studio Theatre!
Gwen has spent many years burying a heart-wrenching incident that changed her life forever. But now that very incident has resurfaced. When a fortune teller delivers three mysteriously precise fortunes, Gwen can no longer carry on as though nothing has changed. As she confesses to her closest friends - Penny and Jonathan - they are also impacted by this news. When this incredible revelation turns into pure shock, friendship is put to the test. Through the humor of whimsical Penny, endearing Jonathan, and boisterous Lanahan the landlady, an engaging adventure ensues. The sweeping emotions pull you in and take you for an unforgettable ride.
ON STAGE AT: The Macungie Institute, 510 East Main Street, Macungie, PA 18062
We are proud to support the American Lyme Disease Foundation with our spring production. We support ALDF in honor of Linda Maniscalco, wife and mother of three children in Allentown, PA. She is currently battling Lyme Disease and stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
Linda Maniscalco, a middle-aged Allentonian mother of three, has been chronically ill with a complicated case of stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma along with Chronic Disseminated Lyme Disease for 14 years. After having been misdiagnosed and untreated for Lyme disease for many years, a common problem with that disease, she was able to receive some treatment for it due to local fundraisers. But that money has run out, and insurance companies do not pay for the expensive long-term Lyme Disease treatment that she so desperately needs. She is now experiencing serious and excruciating symptoms such as: Babesiosis, a malaria-like parasitic disease which is a coinfection of Lyme Disease; deteriorating eyesight; vomiting; difficulty walking without falling; and her spine and other systems are majorly affected.
More information about Linda can be found on LehighValleyLive.com HERE.
WFMZ also has a short video featuring Linda HERE.
And finally - HERE is a YouTube video created to promote awareness about Linda's struggles.
DONATE to help Linda and her family HERE.
Linda Maniscalco, a middle-aged Allentonian mother of three, has been chronically ill with a complicated case of stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma along with Chronic Disseminated Lyme Disease for 14 years. After having been misdiagnosed and untreated for Lyme disease for many years, a common problem with that disease, she was able to receive some treatment for it due to local fundraisers. But that money has run out, and insurance companies do not pay for the expensive long-term Lyme Disease treatment that she so desperately needs. She is now experiencing serious and excruciating symptoms such as: Babesiosis, a malaria-like parasitic disease which is a coinfection of Lyme Disease; deteriorating eyesight; vomiting; difficulty walking without falling; and her spine and other systems are majorly affected.
More information about Linda can be found on LehighValleyLive.com HERE.
WFMZ also has a short video featuring Linda HERE.
And finally - HERE is a YouTube video created to promote awareness about Linda's struggles.
DONATE to help Linda and her family HERE.
ANOTHER YEAR IN THE BOOKS! FAREWELL 2018...
This past year proved to be a year of overcoming many challenges and bravely venturing into new territory!
GREETINGS
We worked hard to bring the charming play "Greetings!" by Tom Dudzick to the stage in November. We assembled a team in early 2018 and held auditions in June. After the crew was in place and the show was cast - we were then full steam ahead in to our production! It was worth all the hard work... GIG's production of Greetings! received rave reviews and was named one of the top ten Lehigh Valley productions of 2018 by The Morning Call!
FINALLY FILMING
Perhaps not everyone is aware, but Global impACTORS Group was created as a production company - which produces staged productions as well as film projects. GIG had ventured into many videos before, but we finally took the plunge into film this year!
After we wrapped Greetings! we began a new adventure. On December 6th through the 10th GIG produced, wrote, cast, and fully edited a short 12-minute film titled, The Eyes Have It. This film was created for the 100 Hour Film Race. This competition is an annual event where film teams across the world compete by incorporating three surprise elements: a theme, a prop, and an action. The surprise elements are given out as the 100 hours kicks off and all the teams race to complete a film before time runs out.
We had the honor of having Geoffrey Ciani and Scott Hackett of NJ join some of our GIG team to complete the film. GIG's Technical Director, Chad Boushell stepped up to direct the short film. Tesia Nicoli wrote the script and played the character of "Lainie." GIG regulars Kathy Patterson, Rachel Williams, Jada Makenzi, and Alexander Campbell also played various roles in the film. Round One judges submitted their results and GIG's film was selected as a Finalist in January 2019. Our film finally premiered at the Screening and Awards Ceremony in Marietta, Georgia on March 13, 2019. We're very proud of our first short film and can't wait to see what the future brings!
THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS
As always, GIG couldn't do what we do without the help of our volunteers. Judith Evans, Stefan Goslawki, and Rachel Williams gave up extraordinary amounts of time to help GIG in 2018. Without these generous, kind people, GIG simply couldn't exist. Many more volunteers gave their time and talent to help GIG thrive and we would be absolutely lost without them. Thank you to everyone who helped GIG in 2018! We love and appreciate our volunteers!!!
AUDITIONS
The upcoming year will bring more surprises and challenges and we look forward to every moment. Auditions for our May production of the original play and regional premiere of Three Fortunes by Tesia Nicoli will be held on January 28 and 30, 2019. We also aim to bring you an exciting Halloween-themed play in October as well. Plus - look out for more film projects on the horizon. We are gaining momentum and just getting warmed up!
Wishing you an extraordinary, happy, healthy 2019! Please stay tuned in the New Year with more exciting announcements regarding GIG's upcoming events!
This past year proved to be a year of overcoming many challenges and bravely venturing into new territory!
GREETINGS
We worked hard to bring the charming play "Greetings!" by Tom Dudzick to the stage in November. We assembled a team in early 2018 and held auditions in June. After the crew was in place and the show was cast - we were then full steam ahead in to our production! It was worth all the hard work... GIG's production of Greetings! received rave reviews and was named one of the top ten Lehigh Valley productions of 2018 by The Morning Call!
FINALLY FILMING
Perhaps not everyone is aware, but Global impACTORS Group was created as a production company - which produces staged productions as well as film projects. GIG had ventured into many videos before, but we finally took the plunge into film this year!
After we wrapped Greetings! we began a new adventure. On December 6th through the 10th GIG produced, wrote, cast, and fully edited a short 12-minute film titled, The Eyes Have It. This film was created for the 100 Hour Film Race. This competition is an annual event where film teams across the world compete by incorporating three surprise elements: a theme, a prop, and an action. The surprise elements are given out as the 100 hours kicks off and all the teams race to complete a film before time runs out.
We had the honor of having Geoffrey Ciani and Scott Hackett of NJ join some of our GIG team to complete the film. GIG's Technical Director, Chad Boushell stepped up to direct the short film. Tesia Nicoli wrote the script and played the character of "Lainie." GIG regulars Kathy Patterson, Rachel Williams, Jada Makenzi, and Alexander Campbell also played various roles in the film. Round One judges submitted their results and GIG's film was selected as a Finalist in January 2019. Our film finally premiered at the Screening and Awards Ceremony in Marietta, Georgia on March 13, 2019. We're very proud of our first short film and can't wait to see what the future brings!
THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS
As always, GIG couldn't do what we do without the help of our volunteers. Judith Evans, Stefan Goslawki, and Rachel Williams gave up extraordinary amounts of time to help GIG in 2018. Without these generous, kind people, GIG simply couldn't exist. Many more volunteers gave their time and talent to help GIG thrive and we would be absolutely lost without them. Thank you to everyone who helped GIG in 2018! We love and appreciate our volunteers!!!
AUDITIONS
The upcoming year will bring more surprises and challenges and we look forward to every moment. Auditions for our May production of the original play and regional premiere of Three Fortunes by Tesia Nicoli will be held on January 28 and 30, 2019. We also aim to bring you an exciting Halloween-themed play in October as well. Plus - look out for more film projects on the horizon. We are gaining momentum and just getting warmed up!
Wishing you an extraordinary, happy, healthy 2019! Please stay tuned in the New Year with more exciting announcements regarding GIG's upcoming events!
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Watch The Eyes Have It Trailer HERE
Watch the short film The Eyes Have It HERE
Watch Behind the Scenes HERE
Watch the short film The Eyes Have It HERE
Watch Behind the Scenes HERE
GREETINGS!
by Tom Dudzick
November 2-11, 2018
"Hilarious." - The New Yorker
"A comic jewel...Stunning and touching...A joyful holiday lift."
- The New York Newsday
"A loving holiday wonder...Deserves a shelf life long after Christmas."
- The New York Post
"Glows with...warmhearted emotion." - The Associated Press
Click HERE to read our Focus Lehigh Valley Press review.
Click HERE to read our review in The Morning Call.
Click HERE to read our review with LV Stage.
Click HERE to read GIG's article in The Morning Call.
Click HERE to read an interview with our director and LV Stage.
CAST:
ANDY - Thomas Rush, RANDI - Tara Short, PHIL - Bill Joachim, EMILY - Genia Miller, MICKEY - Corey Breiner
CREW:
STAGE MANAGER - Judith Evans, DIRECTOR - Tesia Nicoli, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - Stefan Goslawski, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR - Chad Boushell, HOUSE MANAGER - Rachel Williams, BOARD OPERATOR and LIGHTING DESIGNER - Todd Williams, SOUND PROGRAMMER - Eric Hersh, PRODUCERS - Genia Miller, Gene Connelly, Rachel Williams, Eric Hersh, Chad Boushell, Tesia Nicoli, Judith Evans, Stefan Goslawski, and Krystel Seier.
GIG is proud to support the Mercy School for Special Learning in Allentown, PA with this production.
by Tom Dudzick
November 2-11, 2018
"Hilarious." - The New Yorker
"A comic jewel...Stunning and touching...A joyful holiday lift."
- The New York Newsday
"A loving holiday wonder...Deserves a shelf life long after Christmas."
- The New York Post
"Glows with...warmhearted emotion." - The Associated Press
Click HERE to read our Focus Lehigh Valley Press review.
Click HERE to read our review in The Morning Call.
Click HERE to read our review with LV Stage.
Click HERE to read GIG's article in The Morning Call.
Click HERE to read an interview with our director and LV Stage.
CAST:
ANDY - Thomas Rush, RANDI - Tara Short, PHIL - Bill Joachim, EMILY - Genia Miller, MICKEY - Corey Breiner
CREW:
STAGE MANAGER - Judith Evans, DIRECTOR - Tesia Nicoli, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - Stefan Goslawski, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR - Chad Boushell, HOUSE MANAGER - Rachel Williams, BOARD OPERATOR and LIGHTING DESIGNER - Todd Williams, SOUND PROGRAMMER - Eric Hersh, PRODUCERS - Genia Miller, Gene Connelly, Rachel Williams, Eric Hersh, Chad Boushell, Tesia Nicoli, Judith Evans, Stefan Goslawski, and Krystel Seier.
GIG is proud to support the Mercy School for Special Learning in Allentown, PA with this production.
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In this hilarious full-length comedy, Andy has a sweet Catholic mother, a sour Catholic father and an intellectually disabled younger brother named Mickey. When he brings his Jewish atheist fiance to meet the folks on Christmas Eve, his worst fears about family blow-ups are realized. But when Mickey, whose entire vocabulary has been limited to "oh boy" and "wow," suddenly spouts the word "Greetings!" the entire family's belief system is turned upside down. - Samuel French
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The Tin Woman
Written by Sean Grennan
DIrected by Eric D. Hersh
Assistant Director - Stefan Goslawski
Stage Manager - Todd Williams
May 12-20, 2017
On Stage at: The Macungie Institute
"Tears accompany the laughter...a play that reminded me of Ordinary People." - The Milwaukee Journal
"Full of laughter and light even in the darkest moments." - Door County Advocate
"The resolution is as emotionally powerful as it is unexpected." - Door County Peninsula Pulse
A brief “Talk Back” will took place immediately after our Saturday, May 13th, 7 pm show and our Friday, May 19th show. During our May 13th Talk Back the cast, crew, a guest heart transplant recipient (Lavona Baatz), and a donor family member (Sue Seidel) discussed more about The Tin Woman as well as personal and true experiences with organ donation.
Our cast features: Marian Barshinger as Sammy, Trish Cipoletti as Alice, Bill Joachim as Hank, Ryan MacNamara as Jack, Brian Wendt as Daryl, and Rachel Williams as Joy (a.k.a. The Tin Woman).
REVIEW: The Tin Woman: A Heart-warming Show Filled with Humor and Honesty
Written by Eric Stoveken
Global ImpACTORS Group’s production of “The Tin Woman” is a fascinating and affecting tight rope walk of a show. The show addresses a number of Big Issues: life and death, regret and forgiveness, all with humor and charm. Clever staging allows for the story to move seamlessly between diverse setting, making excellent use of The Macungie Institute’s intimate performance space.
“The Tin Woman” is every inch an ensemble piece with evocative and nuanced performances across the board buoying a script that can, at times, seem a bit by-the-numbers. Rachel Williams plays Joy, an acerbic and somewhat mercurial single professional who has recently received a life saving heart transplant from an anonymous donor. Joy is a complex character with a dry sense of humor mixed with a deep melancholy.
By her side sassy BFF Daryl, played with verve by Brian Wendt. Daryl proves an excellent foil to Joy, providing humor and advice in equal measure. Joy, curious about her donor, sends a note to his family. It is from this outreach that the story really begins to unfold.
As we soon learn, the donor’s name was Jack. Played by Ryan Macnamara, Jack is a literal constant presence throughout the show, looking on silently as Joy wrestles with the questions of a life lived at another’s expense and as his family deals with his loss.
Jack’s passing has indeed left heavy emotional scars on his family. Bill Joachim and Trish Cipoletti each deliver dazzling performances as the grieving parents, Hank and Alice. The characters’ dynamic is familiar, Hank is quiet in his anguish; drinking a bit more than he should and complaining more than anyone wants to hear, but refusing to talk about his feelings. Alice is the strong, patient matriarch trying to keep life resembling normalcy while suffering largely in solitude.
It is in these two characters that we most see performances transcending the material. Joachim is fantastic as the mourning father. Building his anger up from comical gripes about cold cemetery benches and excessively tattooed young people to a second act revelation about the true depths of his anger, pain, and regret.
Cipoletti is similarly amazing as Alice as she follows her character’s different path through the same arc of grief, catharsis, and healing. Mixed in with the pain of her loss, Alice dares to hold out hope that meeting Joy and seeing the good that came of her son’s death might offer some healing and closure. Cipoletti’s devastating performance perfectly captures the delicate balancing act of a woman trying to not only heal herself, but those around her as well.
Rounding out the family is Jack’s younger sister Sammy. Played with effervescent charm by Marian Barshinger, Sammy is a whirlwind of emotions and comic relief. We first meet her telling a story to her preschool class. The story clearly reflects her thoughts on the death of her brother and the awkward blessing organ donation, while only talking about flowers. It’s a small, beautiful moment in the show and gives Barshinger an opportunity to ground her before taking on some of the shows broader comic bits later on.
The first act introduces us to this wonderful array of characters and performances. The second act puts them in a room together and lets us see what happens. As secrets are revealed, and everyone learns of Joy’s unexpected connection to Jack, we see the characters getting exactly the kind of closure that they needed, just not in as tidy of a package as they may have wanted.
“The Tin Woman” sets a careful balance between humor and pathos, and it’s cast is uniquely skilled in maintaining that equilibrium. A heart-warming show filled with humor and honesty, this is another triumph for Global ImpACTORS Group. The show continues Friday and Saturday 5/19 and 5/20 at The Macungie Institute. For tickets and information go online to www.GIGtheater.com or call 484-891-1314.
“The Tin Woman” is every inch an ensemble piece with evocative and nuanced performances across the board buoying a script that can, at times, seem a bit by-the-numbers. Rachel Williams plays Joy, an acerbic and somewhat mercurial single professional who has recently received a life saving heart transplant from an anonymous donor. Joy is a complex character with a dry sense of humor mixed with a deep melancholy.
By her side sassy BFF Daryl, played with verve by Brian Wendt. Daryl proves an excellent foil to Joy, providing humor and advice in equal measure. Joy, curious about her donor, sends a note to his family. It is from this outreach that the story really begins to unfold.
As we soon learn, the donor’s name was Jack. Played by Ryan Macnamara, Jack is a literal constant presence throughout the show, looking on silently as Joy wrestles with the questions of a life lived at another’s expense and as his family deals with his loss.
Jack’s passing has indeed left heavy emotional scars on his family. Bill Joachim and Trish Cipoletti each deliver dazzling performances as the grieving parents, Hank and Alice. The characters’ dynamic is familiar, Hank is quiet in his anguish; drinking a bit more than he should and complaining more than anyone wants to hear, but refusing to talk about his feelings. Alice is the strong, patient matriarch trying to keep life resembling normalcy while suffering largely in solitude.
It is in these two characters that we most see performances transcending the material. Joachim is fantastic as the mourning father. Building his anger up from comical gripes about cold cemetery benches and excessively tattooed young people to a second act revelation about the true depths of his anger, pain, and regret.
Cipoletti is similarly amazing as Alice as she follows her character’s different path through the same arc of grief, catharsis, and healing. Mixed in with the pain of her loss, Alice dares to hold out hope that meeting Joy and seeing the good that came of her son’s death might offer some healing and closure. Cipoletti’s devastating performance perfectly captures the delicate balancing act of a woman trying to not only heal herself, but those around her as well.
Rounding out the family is Jack’s younger sister Sammy. Played with effervescent charm by Marian Barshinger, Sammy is a whirlwind of emotions and comic relief. We first meet her telling a story to her preschool class. The story clearly reflects her thoughts on the death of her brother and the awkward blessing organ donation, while only talking about flowers. It’s a small, beautiful moment in the show and gives Barshinger an opportunity to ground her before taking on some of the shows broader comic bits later on.
The first act introduces us to this wonderful array of characters and performances. The second act puts them in a room together and lets us see what happens. As secrets are revealed, and everyone learns of Joy’s unexpected connection to Jack, we see the characters getting exactly the kind of closure that they needed, just not in as tidy of a package as they may have wanted.
“The Tin Woman” sets a careful balance between humor and pathos, and it’s cast is uniquely skilled in maintaining that equilibrium. A heart-warming show filled with humor and honesty, this is another triumph for Global ImpACTORS Group. The show continues Friday and Saturday 5/19 and 5/20 at The Macungie Institute. For tickets and information go online to www.GIGtheater.com or call 484-891-1314.
ALMOST, MAINE
by John Cariani
September 16-24, 2016 at The Macungie Institute, 510 E. Main St., Macungie, PA
“ALMOST, MAINE is a series of nine amiably absurdist vignettes about love, with a touch of good-natured magic realism…witty, romantic, unsentimental. A beautifully structured play, with nifty surprise endings (most but not all of them happy).” —The New York Times
“Sweet, poignant, and witty. Nearly perfect. ALMOST, MAINE’s charm is real. [It] packs wit, earns its laughs and, like love, surprises you.” —New York Daily News
by John Cariani
September 16-24, 2016 at The Macungie Institute, 510 E. Main St., Macungie, PA
“ALMOST, MAINE is a series of nine amiably absurdist vignettes about love, with a touch of good-natured magic realism…witty, romantic, unsentimental. A beautifully structured play, with nifty surprise endings (most but not all of them happy).” —The New York Times
“Sweet, poignant, and witty. Nearly perfect. ALMOST, MAINE’s charm is real. [It] packs wit, earns its laughs and, like love, surprises you.” —New York Daily News
Almost, Maine was directed by Tesia Nicoli and the cast featured: Nicole Anderson, Marian Barshinger, Eric D. Hersh, Kelly H. James, Keith Moser, Tesia Nicoli, Parker Ryan, Brian Welsko, and Rachel Williams. Stage Manager: Gabrielle Rhoads, Assistant Director: Parker Ryan. Board Op and Production Assistant: Todd Williams. House Manager: Stefan Goslawski. Technical Driector: Chad Boushell.
Special thanks to our sponsors who helped us to bring Almost, Maine to the stage: Couture Salon and Spa in Bethlehem, George & Elizabeth Kayal, and Bill Sullenberger. We are also thankful all of our advertisers, guests, and volunteers who support GIG! We couldn't do it without everyone's help. Thank you!
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PROOF by David Auburn
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"PROOF surprises us with its aliveness…Mr. Auburn takes pleasure in knowledge…At the same time, he is unshowily fresh and humane, and he has written a lovely play." —NY Observer
"[A] wonderfully funny…ambitiously constructed work…" —Variety
"…combines elements of mystery and surprise with old-fashioned storytelling to provide a compelling evening of theatre…[PROOF is a] smart and compassionate play of ideas." - NY Daily News
"[A] wonderfully funny…ambitiously constructed work…" —Variety
"…combines elements of mystery and surprise with old-fashioned storytelling to provide a compelling evening of theatre…[PROOF is a] smart and compassionate play of ideas." - NY Daily News
Special thanks to our sponsors who have helped us bring this production to the stage: Couture Salon and Spa in Bethlehem, George & Elizabeth Kayal, and Bill Sullenberger. We are also thankful all of our advertisers, guests, and volunteers who support GIG! Deepest gratitude goes out to Terry Biresch and David Frei for taking all of these gorgeous photographs from our Proof rehearsals. We couldn't do it without everyone's help. Thank you!
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GIG is proud to support The Fleming Memory Center at LVHN during our production of Proof. Founded by the late Dick Fleming, this facility "will centralize clinical, educational and support services for people affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The first of its kind in the area, the center will serve as a hub for a coordinated community network that will meet the unique and often changing needs of people with dementia, their families and principal caregivers." If you are interested in donating, please send checks payable to: LVHN-Fleming Memory Center, c/o LVHN Development Department, PO Box 1883, Allentown, PA 18103. Please watch the short video below in which Mr. Fleming himself explains how and why he developed The Fleming Memory Center:
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GIG is Grateful for 2015 and Excited for 2016!
As we close out 2015, Global impACTORS Group wants to express heartfelt gratitude. Thank you to everyone who attends our shows and supports local theater. Theater is an art that struggles to survive in a world saturated with so many choices. But nothing beats the intimate experience of watching a riveting story unfold before your eyes through actors on stage; actors who are living in the moment and telling a gripping tale of joy or tragedy. We at GIG are grateful to every actor, stage hand, producer, guest, advertiser… every single person who makes our shows possible! Thank you!
This year we want to bring special attention to some of our Volunteers who have given so much of their time to help GIG’s mission. In 2015, the fabulous Judith Evans earns the title of Volunteer of the Year for House Managing our full run of Rabbit Hole, acting in our reprise of Motherhood Out Loud, AND Stage Managing and playing several roles in Pieces of Evelyn! Additional Outstanding Volunteers who went above and beyond in 2015 go out to: Stephanie Prince, John Turner, Shaun Leisher, Marcy Repp, Mark Alvaro, Noah Guth, and Todd Williams. In 2014, our valuable Volunteer of the Year went to John Corl who helped out at the front of the house for every single performance of Motherhood Out Loud. It takes so many talented people to make each show happen and GIG applauds all of you! Bravo to all of our Volunteers!
GIG is always looking for Volunteers to help with our shows and events. Join the family and have a blast! Simply email us and we’ll be more than happy to sign you up!
GIG is thrilled to continue into our third year of productions in 2016! It wouldn’t be possible without the help of so many organizations who donate space to us for rehearsals. Special thanks go out to Legacy Church of Allentown, Grace Lutheran Church in Macungie and Faith Presbyterian in Emmaus. The help from these churches allow us to continue our mission to bring meaningful theater to the greater Lehigh Valley area while supporting a charity in need with each show we produce. We were delighted to support the following organizations in need in 2015: Peaceable Kingdom, Turning Point and The Macungie Institute.
Looking ahead to 2016...GIG has so much in store and we can’t wait to share it with you! On April 15-23, 2016 we bring you the spellbinding Proof by David Auburn. Proof won both the 2001 Tony Award for Best Play and the Pulitzer for Drama. Expect to see auditions pop up in mid-to-late January. In September 2016, GIG will be producing Almost, Maine by John Cariani. This enchanting show is described as: “Sweet, poignant, and witty. Nearly perfect. ALMOST, MAINE’s charm is real. [It] packs wit, earns its laughs and, like love, surprises you.” - New York Daily News. Also - please click on our "Classes" tab to check out the acting workshops being offered in January and February! There is plenty more in store with us for 2016 - so please stay updated with us for the latest developments!
Wishing you the best for 2016!
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2015: Judith Evans
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS OF 2015: Stephanie Prince, John Turner, Shaun Leisher, Marcy Repp, Mark Alvaro, Noah Guth, and Todd Williams
This year we want to bring special attention to some of our Volunteers who have given so much of their time to help GIG’s mission. In 2015, the fabulous Judith Evans earns the title of Volunteer of the Year for House Managing our full run of Rabbit Hole, acting in our reprise of Motherhood Out Loud, AND Stage Managing and playing several roles in Pieces of Evelyn! Additional Outstanding Volunteers who went above and beyond in 2015 go out to: Stephanie Prince, John Turner, Shaun Leisher, Marcy Repp, Mark Alvaro, Noah Guth, and Todd Williams. In 2014, our valuable Volunteer of the Year went to John Corl who helped out at the front of the house for every single performance of Motherhood Out Loud. It takes so many talented people to make each show happen and GIG applauds all of you! Bravo to all of our Volunteers!
GIG is always looking for Volunteers to help with our shows and events. Join the family and have a blast! Simply email us and we’ll be more than happy to sign you up!
GIG is thrilled to continue into our third year of productions in 2016! It wouldn’t be possible without the help of so many organizations who donate space to us for rehearsals. Special thanks go out to Legacy Church of Allentown, Grace Lutheran Church in Macungie and Faith Presbyterian in Emmaus. The help from these churches allow us to continue our mission to bring meaningful theater to the greater Lehigh Valley area while supporting a charity in need with each show we produce. We were delighted to support the following organizations in need in 2015: Peaceable Kingdom, Turning Point and The Macungie Institute.
Looking ahead to 2016...GIG has so much in store and we can’t wait to share it with you! On April 15-23, 2016 we bring you the spellbinding Proof by David Auburn. Proof won both the 2001 Tony Award for Best Play and the Pulitzer for Drama. Expect to see auditions pop up in mid-to-late January. In September 2016, GIG will be producing Almost, Maine by John Cariani. This enchanting show is described as: “Sweet, poignant, and witty. Nearly perfect. ALMOST, MAINE’s charm is real. [It] packs wit, earns its laughs and, like love, surprises you.” - New York Daily News. Also - please click on our "Classes" tab to check out the acting workshops being offered in January and February! There is plenty more in store with us for 2016 - so please stay updated with us for the latest developments!
Wishing you the best for 2016!
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2015: Judith Evans
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS OF 2015: Stephanie Prince, John Turner, Shaun Leisher, Marcy Repp, Mark Alvaro, Noah Guth, and Todd Williams
PIECES OF EVELYN
by Betsy Jackson
directed by Rachel Williams
Fri., Oct. 2 at 8PM
Sat., Oct. 3 at 3PM and 7PM
Fri., Oct. 9 at 8PM (Brief "Talk Back" after the show!)
Sat., Oct. 10 at 3PM and 7PM
On Stage at The Macungie Institute,
510 E. Main St. (Rt. 100), Macungie, PA 18062
This engaging story offers glimpses of Evelyn along the road of life - as she visits with the people, experiences, and issues that contributed to who she has become. This whimsical journey is illustrated through humorous (and sometimes serious) scenes which look at how our choices shape our lives... and how our lives shape our choices. Buy your tickets HERE!
Featuring the following cast: Trish Cipoletti, John Corl, Kristi Curtis, Raven Dailey, Judith Evans, Kelly Herbert James, Remy Kayal, Ryan MacNamara, Keith Moser, Tesia Nicoli, Jeanie Olah, and Elaine Zelker.
by Betsy Jackson
directed by Rachel Williams
Fri., Oct. 2 at 8PM
Sat., Oct. 3 at 3PM and 7PM
Fri., Oct. 9 at 8PM (Brief "Talk Back" after the show!)
Sat., Oct. 10 at 3PM and 7PM
On Stage at The Macungie Institute,
510 E. Main St. (Rt. 100), Macungie, PA 18062
This engaging story offers glimpses of Evelyn along the road of life - as she visits with the people, experiences, and issues that contributed to who she has become. This whimsical journey is illustrated through humorous (and sometimes serious) scenes which look at how our choices shape our lives... and how our lives shape our choices. Buy your tickets HERE!
Featuring the following cast: Trish Cipoletti, John Corl, Kristi Curtis, Raven Dailey, Judith Evans, Kelly Herbert James, Remy Kayal, Ryan MacNamara, Keith Moser, Tesia Nicoli, Jeanie Olah, and Elaine Zelker.
Photos of GIG's production of Pieces of Evelyn by Betsy Jackson:
The Pulitzer Prizewinning Drama,
"Rabbit Hole" by David Lindsay-Abaire, directed by Eric D. Hersh
Friday, May 29 - June 6, 2015
On stage at the Macungie Institute,
510 E. Main St. (Rt. 100), Macungie, PA 18062
Cast: William Alexander, Kelly H. James, Tesia Nicoli, Kathy Patterson, and Parker Ryan
Stage Manager: Stefan Goslawski
Assistant Stage Manager: Parker Ryan
Technical Director: Chad Boushell
Public Relations Director: Krystel Seier
"Grade: A! A transcendent and deeply affecting new play, which shifts perfectly from hilarity to grief." - Entertainment Weekly
"RABBIT HOLE presents a tragedy and its consequences with utter candor, and without sentimentality. The dialogue is most impressive for capturing the awkwardness and pain of thinking people faced with an unthinkable situation - and eventually , their capacity for survival, and even hope." - USA Today
READ OUR REVIEW FROM LV STAGE HERE
"Rabbit Hole" by David Lindsay-Abaire, directed by Eric D. Hersh
Friday, May 29 - June 6, 2015
On stage at the Macungie Institute,
510 E. Main St. (Rt. 100), Macungie, PA 18062
Cast: William Alexander, Kelly H. James, Tesia Nicoli, Kathy Patterson, and Parker Ryan
Stage Manager: Stefan Goslawski
Assistant Stage Manager: Parker Ryan
Technical Director: Chad Boushell
Public Relations Director: Krystel Seier
"Grade: A! A transcendent and deeply affecting new play, which shifts perfectly from hilarity to grief." - Entertainment Weekly
"RABBIT HOLE presents a tragedy and its consequences with utter candor, and without sentimentality. The dialogue is most impressive for capturing the awkwardness and pain of thinking people faced with an unthinkable situation - and eventually , their capacity for survival, and even hope." - USA Today
READ OUR REVIEW FROM LV STAGE HERE
|
Motherhood Out Loud
Back by popular demand! written by Leslie Ayvazian, Brooke Berman, David Cale, Jessica Goldberg, Beth Henley, Lameece Issaq, Claire LaZebnik, Lisa Loomer, Michele Lowe, Marco Pennette, Theresa Rebeck, Luanne Rice, Anne Weisman and Cheryl L. West. Conceived by Susan R. Rose and Joan Stein. directed by Tesia Nicoli Friday, May 8, 2015 at 8PM Saturday, May 9, 2015 at 2PM and 7PM Experience genuine humor and an emotional ride you'll never forget! Some content and language may not be appropriate for younger audiences. |
Cast: Chad Boushell, Gene Connelly, Judith Evans, Eric D. Hersh, Jen Kurtz, Jada Makenzi, Genia Miller, Tesia Nicoli, Kathy Pacheco, Marcy Repp, Krystel Seier, Patti Squire, Renee Wadsworth, Kelly Herbert James, Rachel Williams
2014: A FANTASTIC YEAR IN REVIEW
2014 was Global impACTORS Group’s first full year running as a theatre company – and what a year it was! 2013’s production of Spirit of Poe: 13 Haunting Stories helped GIG propel itself into 2014 with some gusto. We produced an inspired version of Love Letters by A. R Gurney in February, but Old Man Winter had other plans - and only four of our six shows were produced. But that didn’t slow down GIG…
In May 2014, we brought the new Off-Broadway show Motherhood Out Loud to the stage at the Macungie Institute. The feedback and reviews were overwhelmingly positive! So much so, that GIG is thrilled to announce that we’re going to bring back Motherhood Out Loud in 2015 for an encore performance. Nearly all of the original actors will be coming back to play all of the roles they originated last year. Stay posted for details!
After a brief summer break, GIG started working on their fourth production, Over the River and Through the Woods by Joe DiPietro. GIG raised the bar with Motherhood Out Loud, but the cast and crew exceeded expectations with Over the River and Through the Woods. Audiences laughed, cried, and raved!
With our supporters, GIG was able to bring professional-quality theatre to the Greater Lehigh Valley area and endorse the following charities in 2014: The American Heart Association, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and The Alzheimer’s Association.
This year our valuable Volunteer of the Year goes to John Corl who helped out at the front of the house for every single performance of Motherhood Out Loud. Special thanks go out to all of the Volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to GIG!
Looking ahead at 2015, GIG has some thrilling shows and events in store for you! Stay connected with us to be one of the first to know what the New Year holds for GIG. In 2015 Motherhood Out Loud will be produced again. Many folks who saw it last year are anxious to come back and see it again. And if you missed it – don’t pass up this rare opportunity to see it! May 29 through June 6 we will be producing the highly acclaimed Pulitzer Prizewinning Drama, Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire. Another “don’t miss it” show! Stay connected with GIG to find out how you can be in or a part of this exciting opportunity! And look for an update over the summer where we’ll announce our shows for the 2015-2016 season!
GIG always has exciting events and opportunities coming up – so please stay connected with us for all of the latest. And please tell your friends about us. Your support is incredibly important. Cheers to you…may you have a happy and healthy 2015!
Here are some NEW behind-the-scenes photos from 2014. Click on the photo for a larger picture with captions…
In May 2014, we brought the new Off-Broadway show Motherhood Out Loud to the stage at the Macungie Institute. The feedback and reviews were overwhelmingly positive! So much so, that GIG is thrilled to announce that we’re going to bring back Motherhood Out Loud in 2015 for an encore performance. Nearly all of the original actors will be coming back to play all of the roles they originated last year. Stay posted for details!
After a brief summer break, GIG started working on their fourth production, Over the River and Through the Woods by Joe DiPietro. GIG raised the bar with Motherhood Out Loud, but the cast and crew exceeded expectations with Over the River and Through the Woods. Audiences laughed, cried, and raved!
With our supporters, GIG was able to bring professional-quality theatre to the Greater Lehigh Valley area and endorse the following charities in 2014: The American Heart Association, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and The Alzheimer’s Association.
This year our valuable Volunteer of the Year goes to John Corl who helped out at the front of the house for every single performance of Motherhood Out Loud. Special thanks go out to all of the Volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to GIG!
Looking ahead at 2015, GIG has some thrilling shows and events in store for you! Stay connected with us to be one of the first to know what the New Year holds for GIG. In 2015 Motherhood Out Loud will be produced again. Many folks who saw it last year are anxious to come back and see it again. And if you missed it – don’t pass up this rare opportunity to see it! May 29 through June 6 we will be producing the highly acclaimed Pulitzer Prizewinning Drama, Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire. Another “don’t miss it” show! Stay connected with GIG to find out how you can be in or a part of this exciting opportunity! And look for an update over the summer where we’ll announce our shows for the 2015-2016 season!
GIG always has exciting events and opportunities coming up – so please stay connected with us for all of the latest. And please tell your friends about us. Your support is incredibly important. Cheers to you…may you have a happy and healthy 2015!
Here are some NEW behind-the-scenes photos from 2014. Click on the photo for a larger picture with captions…
Over the River and Through the Woods
By Joe DiPietro. ~ Directed by Tesia Nicoli
November 7, 9, 14 & 15, 2014
"A hilarious family comedy that is even funnier than his long-running musical revue I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change." - BackStage
"Loaded with laughs every step of the way." - Star-Ledger
Nick is a single, Italian-American guy from New Jersey. His parents retired and moved to Florida. That doesn't mean his family isn't still in Jersey. In fact, he sees both sets of his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. This is routine until he has to tell them that he's been offered a dream job. The job he's been waiting for—marketing executive—would take him away from his beloved, but annoying, grandparents. He tells them. The news doesn't sit so well. Thus begins a series of schemes to keep Nick around. How could he betray his family's love to move to Seattle, for a job, wonder his grandparents? Well, Frank, Aida, Nunzio and Emma do their level best, and that includes bringing to dinner the lovely—and single—Caitlin O'Hare as bait…we won't give the ending away here. - Dramatists Play Service
Stage Manager: Renee Wadsworth. Assistant Directors: Stefan Goslawski and Goran Zdravkovic.
The cast of Over the River featured: Ryan MacNamara, Genia Miller, Jim Long, Jan LaBellarte, Pat Kelly, and Kelly H. James
By Joe DiPietro. ~ Directed by Tesia Nicoli
November 7, 9, 14 & 15, 2014
"A hilarious family comedy that is even funnier than his long-running musical revue I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change." - BackStage
"Loaded with laughs every step of the way." - Star-Ledger
Nick is a single, Italian-American guy from New Jersey. His parents retired and moved to Florida. That doesn't mean his family isn't still in Jersey. In fact, he sees both sets of his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. This is routine until he has to tell them that he's been offered a dream job. The job he's been waiting for—marketing executive—would take him away from his beloved, but annoying, grandparents. He tells them. The news doesn't sit so well. Thus begins a series of schemes to keep Nick around. How could he betray his family's love to move to Seattle, for a job, wonder his grandparents? Well, Frank, Aida, Nunzio and Emma do their level best, and that includes bringing to dinner the lovely—and single—Caitlin O'Hare as bait…we won't give the ending away here. - Dramatists Play Service
Stage Manager: Renee Wadsworth. Assistant Directors: Stefan Goslawski and Goran Zdravkovic.
The cast of Over the River featured: Ryan MacNamara, Genia Miller, Jim Long, Jan LaBellarte, Pat Kelly, and Kelly H. James
OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS WORTH THE TREK
written by Brian McDermott
"...there are plenty of moments in this play everyone can relate to."
"...the actors never falter. When the pendulum swings to 'comedy' they are as precise as Swiss watches - and equally heart-tugging with the drama."
"Ryan MacNamara plays every emotion from frustration to annoyance to anger but never goes over the top and never without us believing he still truly loves these four people who are – at various points in the show – driving him crazy."
"The direction by Tesia Nicoli makes excellent use of the space at the Macungie Institute. Asides to the audience are handled with spotlights, and there are several monologues which help to guide the story and explain what the characters are feeling, as well as some secrets we find out in act two. Ms. Nicoli and her cast expertly handle the emotional “swings” of the material from rolling laugher during a Trivial Pursuit game to several teary-eyed moments. Everyone has moments where they are allowed to shine both comically and emotionally. She and her cast embrace the story with genuine warmth but also a frenetic energy that keeps us looking from one character to another to see what they may be up to even when they’re not speaking."
"This show – at its core – will make you realize that no matter how annoying your family may be – if they love and care for you they are worth cherishing as long as you can."
"A funny and poignant story."
Read the rest of this review HERE.
written by Brian McDermott
"...there are plenty of moments in this play everyone can relate to."
"...the actors never falter. When the pendulum swings to 'comedy' they are as precise as Swiss watches - and equally heart-tugging with the drama."
"Ryan MacNamara plays every emotion from frustration to annoyance to anger but never goes over the top and never without us believing he still truly loves these four people who are – at various points in the show – driving him crazy."
"The direction by Tesia Nicoli makes excellent use of the space at the Macungie Institute. Asides to the audience are handled with spotlights, and there are several monologues which help to guide the story and explain what the characters are feeling, as well as some secrets we find out in act two. Ms. Nicoli and her cast expertly handle the emotional “swings” of the material from rolling laugher during a Trivial Pursuit game to several teary-eyed moments. Everyone has moments where they are allowed to shine both comically and emotionally. She and her cast embrace the story with genuine warmth but also a frenetic energy that keeps us looking from one character to another to see what they may be up to even when they’re not speaking."
"This show – at its core – will make you realize that no matter how annoying your family may be – if they love and care for you they are worth cherishing as long as you can."
"A funny and poignant story."
Read the rest of this review HERE.
Show Photos from GIG's production of
Over the River and Through the Woods by Joe DiPietro
GIG Presents...The Off-Broadway Hit...
Motherhood Out Loud
May 16, 17, 23 & 24, 2014
Motherhood Out Loud is a new show packed with laughter, gripping stories, and touching moments. Experience genuine humor and an emotional ride you'll never forget!
Written by Leslie Ayvazian, Brooke Berman, David Cale, Jessica Goldberg, Beth Henley, Lameece Issaq, Claire LaZebnik, Lisa Loomer, Michele Lowe, Marco Pennette, Theresa Rebeck, Luanne Rice, Anne Weisman and Cheryl L. West. Conceived by Susan R. Rose and Joan Stein.
Motherhood Out Loud
May 16, 17, 23 & 24, 2014
Motherhood Out Loud is a new show packed with laughter, gripping stories, and touching moments. Experience genuine humor and an emotional ride you'll never forget!
Written by Leslie Ayvazian, Brooke Berman, David Cale, Jessica Goldberg, Beth Henley, Lameece Issaq, Claire LaZebnik, Lisa Loomer, Michele Lowe, Marco Pennette, Theresa Rebeck, Luanne Rice, Anne Weisman and Cheryl L. West. Conceived by Susan R. Rose and Joan Stein.
REVIEW:
GIG’s “Motherhood Out Loud” – Joyous, Emotional, and Very Funny
May 18, 2014
by Eric Stoveken - Author, Playwright, Screenwriter
YOU CAN ALSO READ THIS REVIEW HERE ON LEHIGH VALLEY WOMAN'S JOURNAL
Something remarkable is happening at the Macungie Institute next weekend, May 23 and 24. In the auditorium of this inconspicuous converted schoolhouse turned community arts center, a delicate balancing act is playing out with astonishing results. Global impACTORS Group’s production of the off-Broadway hitMotherhood Out Loud straddles the line between raucous irreverence and intense pathos with a deft hand that serves as a remarkable showcase for the depth and breadth of talent in the Lehigh Valley.
Motherhood Out Loud is a series of vignettes and monologues written by a group of 14 playwrights. If that sounds like a lot of writers, the cast, under the guidance of Director Tesia Nicoli, keeps the pace brisk and light. Minimal but well-crafted sets allow for smooth transitions from one segment to the next.
The show opens by letting us know where it stands on addressing the joys and frustrations of parenthood. This is not a show that’s going to rely on mawkish sentiment. This is not going to be adapted for Lifetime TV. The show opens as each chapter will; with a rapid fire “fugue” where snippets of dialogue come together to paint a verbal picture of the chapter’s theme. In the opening we have three mothers (played by Kathy Pacheco, Becca Carlyon Wahoff, and Rachel Williams) recounting comical memories of the childbirth experience.
In a way, the second vignette encapsulates the show as a whole. In the segment entitled “Squeeze, Hold, Release”, Becca Carlyon Wahoff plays a new mother saying good bye to her parents (Patti Squire and Goran Zdravkovic) after their post-partum visit. Asked if she has any final advice for her daughter, Squire proceeds to explain the intimate importance of kegel exercises. The ensuing scene is hilariously awkward, but segues into a wistful meditation on how “squeezing, holding, and releasing” can serve as a metaphor for motherhood itself. It is quite a trick to take segment of ribald, somewhat uncomfortable comedy and turn it into a mediation on parenting that is sweet without being saccharine. Difficult though it is, this a trick that we see expertly performed many times throughout the evening.
The entire cast of this production is excellent in both monologues and ensemble sketches. Kathy Pacheco delivers some of the biggest laughs of the night in the sleep deprived monologue “Next to the Crib.” Gene Connelly, playing a gay father of a surrogate child in “If We’re Using a Surrogate, How Come I’m the One with Morning Sickness,” strikes a perfect balance between the humor and raw emotion of a complex experience. “Bridal Shop” finds Patti Squire and Judith Evans demonstrating amazing chemistry and comic rapport in as they commiserate on the trauma of becoming a mother-in-law.
Krystel Seier brings the audience with her on a ride through the giddy peaks and heartbreaking valleys of raising an autistic child in the segment “Michael’s Date,” a sequence whose emotional climax strikes a heart-rending chord with the audience. Renee Wadsworth breathes intense emotional life into “My Almost Family,” a look at the struggles of a potential stepmom trying to find her place in an already existing family. Genia Miller, who elsewhere in the show demonstrates a light a deft comic touch, absolutely devastates with the monologue “Stars and Stripes.” Told from the perspective a mother whose son is deployed in Afghanistan, the piece builds to a sustained emotional peak that reminds us that the quiet dignity and strength with which we credit our military families need not, and perhaps should not, always be quiet.
“Stars and Stripes” is an impact moment in a show full of them. Afterwards, I couldn’t help but think, “Man, I would hate to have to follow that.” Here, the Director makes the wise choice of giving the audience a bit of a breather, letting the crowd sit in silence for a few moments before proceeding to the fifth and final chapter.
Even in the rare situation when the writing threatens to let the show down, the cast manages to transcend the material, keeping the audience rapt where lesser actors might stumble. The clearest example of this would be the great work done by Eric D. Hersh and Marcy Repp. Their segment entitled “Elizabeth” seems out of place amongst the more tightly written portions of the show, an overly long series of micro scenes tracing a son’s realization that his mother is beginning to show signs of dementia. From a writing stand point, the piece could be a momentum killer but Hersh and Repp’s commitment to the characters and pitch perfect chemistry carry the day.
While the show is called Motherhood Out Loud, it is a show for parents of all genders, persuasions, and ages. It a testament to the ensemble’s considerable skill that the show’s diversity never becomes too heavy handed. With sketches and monologues dedicated to gay surrogacy, adopted families, the struggles of raising an autistic child, and menstruation in a Muslim family; it would be easy for a lesser production to fall into self-congratulatory proselytizing. Global impACTORS Group does no such thing; opting, instead to present a joyous, emotional, and very funny group portrait of the many faces of parenthood.
The show runs Friday May 23 at 8pm and Saturday May 24 at 3pm and 7pm at the Macungie Institute. Tickets start at $17 with a portion proceeds going to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospitals. You can purchase online at http//www.gigtheater.com or by calling 484-891-1314.
GIG’s “Motherhood Out Loud” – Joyous, Emotional, and Very Funny
May 18, 2014
by Eric Stoveken - Author, Playwright, Screenwriter
YOU CAN ALSO READ THIS REVIEW HERE ON LEHIGH VALLEY WOMAN'S JOURNAL
Something remarkable is happening at the Macungie Institute next weekend, May 23 and 24. In the auditorium of this inconspicuous converted schoolhouse turned community arts center, a delicate balancing act is playing out with astonishing results. Global impACTORS Group’s production of the off-Broadway hitMotherhood Out Loud straddles the line between raucous irreverence and intense pathos with a deft hand that serves as a remarkable showcase for the depth and breadth of talent in the Lehigh Valley.
Motherhood Out Loud is a series of vignettes and monologues written by a group of 14 playwrights. If that sounds like a lot of writers, the cast, under the guidance of Director Tesia Nicoli, keeps the pace brisk and light. Minimal but well-crafted sets allow for smooth transitions from one segment to the next.
The show opens by letting us know where it stands on addressing the joys and frustrations of parenthood. This is not a show that’s going to rely on mawkish sentiment. This is not going to be adapted for Lifetime TV. The show opens as each chapter will; with a rapid fire “fugue” where snippets of dialogue come together to paint a verbal picture of the chapter’s theme. In the opening we have three mothers (played by Kathy Pacheco, Becca Carlyon Wahoff, and Rachel Williams) recounting comical memories of the childbirth experience.
In a way, the second vignette encapsulates the show as a whole. In the segment entitled “Squeeze, Hold, Release”, Becca Carlyon Wahoff plays a new mother saying good bye to her parents (Patti Squire and Goran Zdravkovic) after their post-partum visit. Asked if she has any final advice for her daughter, Squire proceeds to explain the intimate importance of kegel exercises. The ensuing scene is hilariously awkward, but segues into a wistful meditation on how “squeezing, holding, and releasing” can serve as a metaphor for motherhood itself. It is quite a trick to take segment of ribald, somewhat uncomfortable comedy and turn it into a mediation on parenting that is sweet without being saccharine. Difficult though it is, this a trick that we see expertly performed many times throughout the evening.
The entire cast of this production is excellent in both monologues and ensemble sketches. Kathy Pacheco delivers some of the biggest laughs of the night in the sleep deprived monologue “Next to the Crib.” Gene Connelly, playing a gay father of a surrogate child in “If We’re Using a Surrogate, How Come I’m the One with Morning Sickness,” strikes a perfect balance between the humor and raw emotion of a complex experience. “Bridal Shop” finds Patti Squire and Judith Evans demonstrating amazing chemistry and comic rapport in as they commiserate on the trauma of becoming a mother-in-law.
Krystel Seier brings the audience with her on a ride through the giddy peaks and heartbreaking valleys of raising an autistic child in the segment “Michael’s Date,” a sequence whose emotional climax strikes a heart-rending chord with the audience. Renee Wadsworth breathes intense emotional life into “My Almost Family,” a look at the struggles of a potential stepmom trying to find her place in an already existing family. Genia Miller, who elsewhere in the show demonstrates a light a deft comic touch, absolutely devastates with the monologue “Stars and Stripes.” Told from the perspective a mother whose son is deployed in Afghanistan, the piece builds to a sustained emotional peak that reminds us that the quiet dignity and strength with which we credit our military families need not, and perhaps should not, always be quiet.
“Stars and Stripes” is an impact moment in a show full of them. Afterwards, I couldn’t help but think, “Man, I would hate to have to follow that.” Here, the Director makes the wise choice of giving the audience a bit of a breather, letting the crowd sit in silence for a few moments before proceeding to the fifth and final chapter.
Even in the rare situation when the writing threatens to let the show down, the cast manages to transcend the material, keeping the audience rapt where lesser actors might stumble. The clearest example of this would be the great work done by Eric D. Hersh and Marcy Repp. Their segment entitled “Elizabeth” seems out of place amongst the more tightly written portions of the show, an overly long series of micro scenes tracing a son’s realization that his mother is beginning to show signs of dementia. From a writing stand point, the piece could be a momentum killer but Hersh and Repp’s commitment to the characters and pitch perfect chemistry carry the day.
While the show is called Motherhood Out Loud, it is a show for parents of all genders, persuasions, and ages. It a testament to the ensemble’s considerable skill that the show’s diversity never becomes too heavy handed. With sketches and monologues dedicated to gay surrogacy, adopted families, the struggles of raising an autistic child, and menstruation in a Muslim family; it would be easy for a lesser production to fall into self-congratulatory proselytizing. Global impACTORS Group does no such thing; opting, instead to present a joyous, emotional, and very funny group portrait of the many faces of parenthood.
The show runs Friday May 23 at 8pm and Saturday May 24 at 3pm and 7pm at the Macungie Institute. Tickets start at $17 with a portion proceeds going to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospitals. You can purchase online at http//www.gigtheater.com or by calling 484-891-1314.
Show Photos from Motherhood Out Loud
MORE REVIEWS for GIG's "Motherhood Out Loud"
"Motherhood Out Loud" a Heartfelt Paean to Parents
Read GIG's "Motherhood Out Loud" Review from The Morning Call HERE.
"Motherhood" Definitely "Out Loud" in Macungie
Read GIG's Review of "Motherhood Out Loud" from LV Stage HERE.
"Motherhood Out Loud" a Heartfelt Paean to Parents
Read GIG's "Motherhood Out Loud" Review from The Morning Call HERE.
"Motherhood" Definitely "Out Loud" in Macungie
Read GIG's Review of "Motherhood Out Loud" from LV Stage HERE.
Rehearsal Photos for Motherhood Out Loud Taken by Terry D. Biresch
A. R. Gurney's
Love Letters
Show Dates: February 7, 8, and 14, 2014
Cast: Eric D. Hersh, Becca Carlyon Wahoff, Gene Connelly, Janice McDuffy, Gene Traupman, and Judith Evans
Artistic Director: Tesia Nicoli
Technical Director: Chad Boushell
Stage Manager: Renee Wadsworth
Read the Morning Call's review of Love Letters HERE
Love Letters
Show Dates: February 7, 8, and 14, 2014
Cast: Eric D. Hersh, Becca Carlyon Wahoff, Gene Connelly, Janice McDuffy, Gene Traupman, and Judith Evans
Artistic Director: Tesia Nicoli
Technical Director: Chad Boushell
Stage Manager: Renee Wadsworth
Read the Morning Call's review of Love Letters HERE
LOVE LETTERS PHOTOS:
LVStage.org names Global ImpACTORS Group as one of Lehigh Valley Stage's Best of 2013!
Spirit of Poe: 13 Haunting Stories
Show Dates: October 18, 25, and 26, 2013
Cast: Will Alexander, Chad Boushell, Bill Bynon, Dorothy Cockrell, Ellen Elizabeth, Judith Evans, William Gibson, Sean Hulshart, Remy Kayal, Jada Makenzi, Tesia Nicoli, Alison Macy Steigerwalt, Stephanie Steigerwalt, Gene Traupman, and Renee Wadsworth.
Artistic Director and Sound Designer: Tesia Nicoli Assistant Director: Sean Hulshart
Technical Director and Set Designer: Chad Boushell Stage Manager: Ellen Elizabeth
This theatrically engaging show is comprised of seven adapted stories and six short poems by Edgar Allan Poe. Spirit of Poe treats each poem in a visually intriguing manner while the seven stories are both compelling and delightfully macabre. GIG recommends this seasonally-themed show for audiences, ages 10 and older, as a unique way of celebrating October. Spirit of Poe promises an experience that will be talked about long after the last curtain closes. A portion of the proceeds was donated to The Macungie Institute, which supports social, cultural, and educational advancements in our community.
The stories and poems presented in Spirit of Poe: Alone, The Fall of the House of Usher, The Raven, A Tale of the Ragged Mountains, The Valley of Unrest, The Tell-Tale Heart, The Oval Portrait, A Dream Within a Dream, The Cask of Amontillado, A Paean, Morella, Spirits of the Dead, and The Masque of Red Death.
KUDOS:
“I found Spirit of Poe to be interesting and just the right mix of suspense. For those who like this season of scary things, it’s the perfect theatre experience.”
“It may have been the group’s premiere performance at the Macungie Institute, but you wouldn’t know it from the performance they gave. From the minute the show opened with the poem Alone, the cast and crew worked together to bring a hauntingly good experience for the audience. The acting, sound, props, and lighting worked simultaneously to submerse the audience into an eerie experience.”
“The cast did a fine job conveying the intensity of Poe. Each actor played a variety of roles, most crazed and eerily addressing the audience while shrouded in a spotlight.”
- Kelly Herbert James, Lehigh Valley Theatre Critic
“Director Tesia Nicoli put together an amazing show, which shrewdly brought Poe's written words to life on the stage.”
“The sets, props, and costumes all fittingly contributed to an appropriate eerie atmosphere that was further amplified by the use of clever stage lighting and creepy sound effects. Taken together, these elements all effectively complimented one in another in an admirable effort that exuded the primal essence of Poe's works.”
“All in all, it was a commendable effort for all parties involved, each doing an admirable job in bringing this little piece of theatrical magic to fruition, in the spirit of both Poe and Halloween.”
- Geoffrey Ciani, Reviewer and Senior Partner of Mushroom Cloud Productions
Show Dates: October 18, 25, and 26, 2013
Cast: Will Alexander, Chad Boushell, Bill Bynon, Dorothy Cockrell, Ellen Elizabeth, Judith Evans, William Gibson, Sean Hulshart, Remy Kayal, Jada Makenzi, Tesia Nicoli, Alison Macy Steigerwalt, Stephanie Steigerwalt, Gene Traupman, and Renee Wadsworth.
Artistic Director and Sound Designer: Tesia Nicoli Assistant Director: Sean Hulshart
Technical Director and Set Designer: Chad Boushell Stage Manager: Ellen Elizabeth
This theatrically engaging show is comprised of seven adapted stories and six short poems by Edgar Allan Poe. Spirit of Poe treats each poem in a visually intriguing manner while the seven stories are both compelling and delightfully macabre. GIG recommends this seasonally-themed show for audiences, ages 10 and older, as a unique way of celebrating October. Spirit of Poe promises an experience that will be talked about long after the last curtain closes. A portion of the proceeds was donated to The Macungie Institute, which supports social, cultural, and educational advancements in our community.
The stories and poems presented in Spirit of Poe: Alone, The Fall of the House of Usher, The Raven, A Tale of the Ragged Mountains, The Valley of Unrest, The Tell-Tale Heart, The Oval Portrait, A Dream Within a Dream, The Cask of Amontillado, A Paean, Morella, Spirits of the Dead, and The Masque of Red Death.
KUDOS:
“I found Spirit of Poe to be interesting and just the right mix of suspense. For those who like this season of scary things, it’s the perfect theatre experience.”
“It may have been the group’s premiere performance at the Macungie Institute, but you wouldn’t know it from the performance they gave. From the minute the show opened with the poem Alone, the cast and crew worked together to bring a hauntingly good experience for the audience. The acting, sound, props, and lighting worked simultaneously to submerse the audience into an eerie experience.”
“The cast did a fine job conveying the intensity of Poe. Each actor played a variety of roles, most crazed and eerily addressing the audience while shrouded in a spotlight.”
- Kelly Herbert James, Lehigh Valley Theatre Critic
“Director Tesia Nicoli put together an amazing show, which shrewdly brought Poe's written words to life on the stage.”
“The sets, props, and costumes all fittingly contributed to an appropriate eerie atmosphere that was further amplified by the use of clever stage lighting and creepy sound effects. Taken together, these elements all effectively complimented one in another in an admirable effort that exuded the primal essence of Poe's works.”
“All in all, it was a commendable effort for all parties involved, each doing an admirable job in bringing this little piece of theatrical magic to fruition, in the spirit of both Poe and Halloween.”
- Geoffrey Ciani, Reviewer and Senior Partner of Mushroom Cloud Productions
