‘Snug’ Plays Under the Stars

Posted on July 22, 2021 by Karen Nowosad
A sceme from Snug – From the left: Dino Curia, Kirby Davis, Rupert Spraul, Anthony Paglia, Billie Wyatt, and Isaac Hickox-Young. Photo by Avery Brunkus

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) returns to their outdoor summer home this month. Since 2002, STNJ has performed in the outdoor Greek-style amphitheater on the campus of St. Elizabeth University with one exception: 2020 when the CoVid pandemic restrictions prevented its use. But now they are back with two glorious productions available until Aug. 1. Running are Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors and a new play, Snug, written by Bonnie Monte. Both are comedies and both shows are appropriate for all ages.

Brian B. Crowe directs Comedy of Errors. On alternate nights Snug, directed by Ms. Monte, is on.

For this article, I will cover Snug.

Background on Snug

Bonnie J. Monte wrote Snug this past spring. Ms. Monte, who serves as the Artistic Director of Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, was inspired to write Snug based upon two sources of inspiration. These sources were Mechanicals from A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the company of actors who do the shows.

Mechanicals from A Midsummer Night’s Dream provide the comical moments in that play. Characters such as Bottom and Snug are names from that group. Regarding the inspiration from company of actors, this group who performs have been isolated with STNJ’s “skeletal pandemic staff” since the start of the CoVid shut-down. Ms. Monte found over the course of the past 14 months that she was able to get to know them very well. She says, “Their unstoppable energy, good hearts, earnest desire to create art in the middle of the pandemic ‘desert’ as well as their often delightful hijinks, made me want to write a play about them in the guise of the characters they played for us in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

In a way, this development of the play is big thank you to this company of actors for all they did for the STNJ during CoVid. This is a nice salute to this inspiring group.

The Story of Snug

Snug is about an acting troop who decide to enter a contest sponsored by a local Duke. The prize money will help all of them out if they win. The quest to find and develop the right play takes place in the first part of the show. Quince (Kirby Davis) serves as a company manager who takes on the job. But there are things to consider in the selection such as the preferences of the actors. Bottom (Rupert Spraul) wants a play where he can portray a tyrant. He is very confident about his ability to fill this role. He’s also very funny in his pronouncements about himself. “I am an artist,” he declares and he only wants to to do that work. He later declares “We artists are very delicate souls; we need encouragement,” when the rehearsals get difficult.

Snug is another player who has a definite idea of what she wants to do. She only wants to build the set. But they need her to be a lion and roar. That seems quite out of the question as Snug is very shy, quiet, and quite unable to roar. But one evening, she drifts into a sleep when a fairy enters the room. The fairy decides to help her roar loudly and sets out to create a potion to do that.

Rehearsals continue and finally the day of the big show arrives. The performance of the play is cleverly staged so that we see the backs of the players but hear parts of the play. Secretly, the fairy enters and pours the needed magic potion for Snug. After a few comical mishaps, the moment of the big roar arrives, and Snug pulls it off very well. What happens to the acting troop and the contest? You will have to go to see for yourself. And you will also see the post play within a play events which give everyone involved a happy ending.

Snug is a light-hearted play perfect for an outdoor theater event this summer. Maybe we are all looking for a little magic to come back into our lives. This play is a good way to bring in some. It is also a terrific way to bring in some good comedy with laughs for all.

Cast and Creatives

As mentioned above, the cast has a unique history as they have quarantined together since the beginning of CoVid. Their synergy is evident. The ensemble cast includes Jeffrey Marc Alkins, Marcella Cox, Dino Curia, and Kirby Davis. Also included are Ellie Gossage, Karl Hawkins, Isaac Hickox-Young, Anthony Paglia, Rupert Spraul, Billie Wyatt, and Katja Yacker.

Baron Pugh is the Scenic Designer for both shows, and Jason Flamos returns to STNJ as the Lighting Designer for both productions. Paul Canada returns for his 12th season as Costume Designer for Comedy of Errors. Andrew Yoder makes his professional debut with STNJ as Sound Designer for Comedy of Errors. Ms. Monte is the Costume and Sound Designer for Snug.

Good News About Tickets

The Beacon Trust and Provident Bank have partnered together to ensure the continuance of the Free Tickets for Kids program for The Outdoor Stage.

In addition to the free tickets for those under 17, STNJ offers its $30 Under 30 ticket price for adults 30 and under. All other adult tickets will be $40 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday evenings. Adult tickets for Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and the 5:00 p.m. Sunday Twilight Performances are $45.

All performances other than the 5:00 p.m. Sunday Twilight Shows will begin at 8:00 p.m.

For more information about The Shakespeare Theatre’s Outdoor Stage performances, please call the Box Office at (973) 408-5600, or log onto www.shakespeareNJ.org.

About CoVid Protocols

The following comes directly from Shakespeare Theatre New Jersey concerning their adherence to CoVid compliance. Address additional questions about these policies to Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey.

“While STNJ will re-open its Outdoor Stage in compliance with all CDC and NJ State COVID-19 recommendations and requirements, those guidelines are now almost fully-relaxed, which will make this year’s Outdoor Stage experience one that feels essentially back-to-normal. As of now, people who are vaccinated do not need to wear masks at outdoor events unless they wish to do so. Those who are not vaccinated must wear masks, and must socially distance themselves, though STNJ urges those who are not vaccinated to either get their shots or to avoid live events. The company recognizes that some individuals cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, and that they must wear masks for their own protection. The Theatre’s website provides more information regarding its COVID-19 precautionary measures and other FAQ’s related to the pandemic.”

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‘Mandela’ An Intense Look Back

Posted on July 13, 2021 by Karen Nowosad
Nadijah Abdul Khaliq and Robert Greene play Winnie and Nelson Mandela in the new play Mandela. Photo courtesy of East Harlem Repertory Theater

A Review of Mandela

As live, in-person theater begins to reopen, we remember what an impressive medium it can be. Stories told with impact can help us remember significant events of years past. This is the case of a new Off-Broadway show now playing at Actors Temple Theater in New York City. Mandela is the story of the legendary leader who endured years of cruel imprisonment which helped lead to world-wide movements to bring his case to light. Nelson Mandela was representative of the unfairness of the Apartheid system that dominated South Africa. The play uses critical scenes and superbly delivered monologues to bring out the suffering and unfairness created by segregationist policies against non-white citizens of that country. However, it ends on a note of hope as Mandela’s election to President of South Africa is celebrated.

The play has a large order to fill, and it fills that order with a script co-written by John Ruiz Miranda and Yolanda Brooks. Mr. Miranda also directs this production and Ms. Brooks produces. Actors are from The East Harlem Repertory Theater and they turn in superb performances. Additionally, good quality staging and special effects add much to this fine production.

The Story is Based on History

When watching Mandela, is important to remember that this is a historic documentary being told. Memories tend to fade as years go on, but plays like this bring the events back into sharp focus. The play opens years before Nelson Mandela goes to prison to show the work that he and his group were doing with the ANC (African National Congress). Attempts are made to stay on more peaceful sides of protest. However, eventually the inclusion of guns occurs and violence breaks out. Arrests are made but the lengthy imprisonment does not occur until Mandela and his core group are sentenced for acts of treason.

Running along side of the South African story is what happens in the United States in this time period. There are a few scenes about the rise of the Black Panther Movement and the actions of the Ku Kluk Klan. Mention is made of the CIA and their involvement with South Africa as well.

Most Intensive

Some of the most intensive scenes in the show occur during Mandela’s imprisonment. The conditions he endured are shocking. Robert Greene as Nelson Mandela and Nadijah Abdul Khaliq as Winnie Mandela both give powerful performances as they recreate the couple who lost so many years of their marriage when Nelson was imprisoned. They both deliver monologues that are standout moments in the play where they trace the thinking of their characters. The monologues provide a wealth of information about what they go through during this period of incarceration and how they feel as people.

Another startling monologue is given by Warden Van Rensburg who appears to be based off of a Nazi style SS officer. John Shortt in his role as the Warden provides a forceful speech as Mandela and his fellow prisoners arrive on the unforgiving Robben Island. More understanding a is a guard, played by Tyler McCall, who attempts to give some sort of humane treatment to Mandela as he describes in a final monologue of the show.

Additional members of the acting ensemble include James R Garrett, Ivan Goris, Lamine Thiam, Thaddeus Birkett, Jaray Hunter,  Keith L.T. Wright,  and Arlene McGriff.

Immersive Additions to the Show

Photo by K. Nowosad – Prop style handcuffs from Mandela

Upon entering the Theater, audiences have the option of accepting a set of handcuffs and placing them on themselves as they walk through a cleverly designed entrance way that resembles a jail. This represents solidarity with Nelson Mandela and his cause. The concept and use of this device is very moving and it opens one’s thinking immediately. NOTE: The handcuffs can be taken home as a souvenir of this show.

Video is used to identify critical moments of time in history. Footage from scenes from the time periods of the show are effectively woven into the play to give a keen note of accuracy to what the audience sees.

There are several scenes where guns come out on stage. Most of the guns seen are handguns and obviously they are theatrical prop models. If you look at them, you will see orange colored plugs in them so there is no confusion about what type of a piece they are. Audience members will feel the intensity of those moments as guns are pointed at them. If you are uncomfortable being around gun representations, you might want to get a seat further back rather than a front row.

About Mandela

Mandela has an open-ended run at the Actors Temple Theatre, 339 West 47th St. Performances are on Saturdays and Sundays at 4:30 p.m. For more information visit: https://www.telecharge.com/Off-Broadway/Mandela/Overview  and https://mandelanyc.com. Check with the Theater for questions or concerns about CoVid safety procedures.

Final Thoughts

I highly recommend this play for anyone who has an interest in historic events particularly those related to Nelson Mandela. The production is powerful and well performed. If you have missed going to live shows, this is an amazing way to get back. It is a show that will stay with you for a very long time. It captures the struggles and eventual triumph of an unforgettable man and movement. But it also shows the price paid to achieve it.

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‘It’s Only a Play’ – What Happens after the Show is Over

Posted on June 25, 2021 by Karen Nowosad
(L to R) Zach Shaffer, Greg Cuellar, Doug Harris, Andy Grotelueschen, Christine Toy Johnson, & Julie Halston in IT’S ONLY A PLAY.

It’s Only a Play: A Review

Remember what an Opening Night is like for a new play? The lights go down. The curtain comes up and the stage comes alive with a new production. If you are lucky, you attend the After Party where a celebration of the new creation takes place. And then the reviews arrive. What will they say about the new show?

Since CoVid-19 forced the closing of live theater, it’s been a long time since a scenario like that happened. So it is very appropriate that George Street Playhouse chose to run It’s Only a Play as what will likely be their final selection in their virtual series. Theater goers are looking forward to a return to live shows. But in meantime, virtual productions like this one are an excellent way to help fill the gap.

It’s Only a Play is a first rate production filmed on the stage at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center. Cinematography is by Michael Boylan.

The play was written by Terrence McNally. It first opened off-off Broadway in 1982 and then Off-Broadway in 1996. Playwright McNally updated his work when it opened on Broadway in 2014. Those updates are evident in this version by George Street Playhouse and they add to the comedy of the events.

This production is directed by Kevin Cahoon. who does outstanding work using humor to relay the pathos of the moment. Mr. Cahoon brings the characters up to full volume to show the ups and downs of those who work in the theater.

The Story

This humorous play depicts what goes on backstage on Opening Night after the performance while waiting for the reviews. An elaborate party paid for by the dedicated and somewhat ambitious producer Julia Budder (Christine Toy Johnson) provides the setting for those involved with the show to gather. First on the scene is actor James Wicker (Zach Shaffer) making a phone call to check in on his West Coast acting gig. Wicker turned down the male lead in the play but has come to support his friend, Peter Austin (Andy Andy Grotelueschen), who is the writer of the play. Wicker’s underlying intentions are rather crass in that he’s hoping to see the play be a failure since he did not take the part.

As the night goes on more and more people arrive at the party. There are some very funny lines as people arrive at the party and you can hear significant Broadway shows being mentioned. Handling the coats is Gus P. Head (Doug Harris) who just coincidentally is an actor aspiring to be on Broadway. He tells everyone who has arrived as he places the coats down with words like “the cast of Lion King just arrived.” When he explains that this set of coats is from the from the cast of Rock of Ages, someone says “I thought Rock of Ages closed.” He replies it did but no one told them.

Early on, someone states, “waiting for Ben Brantley’s review in the New York Times is what tonight is about!” So as the wait for the reviews continue, other characters emerge. The arrogant director Frank Finger (Greg Cuellar) tells the cast that he has only had good reviews and he wants a bad one. This is not well received by Virginia Noyes (Julie Halston), the play’s leading lady who had some issues on stage with her ankle tracking bracelet from a most recent drug incident.

The Review Arrives

Producer Budder arranges a special drop off of the New York Times Review 30 minutes before general publication. The text message arrives with the review. A special selfie photo is taken to commemorate the historic moment that most everyone is counting on to be fabulous.

The cast of IT’S ONLY A PLAY. (L to R) Triney Sandoval, Christine Toy Johnson, Zach Shaffer, Greg Cuellar, Doug Harris, Andy Grotelueschen, & Julie Halston.taking a selfie to commemorate the moment the review arrives

In a word, the review is brutal. And it provides some of the most humorous moments of the show. Just the name of the play alone, “The Golden Egg” gives a clue to what is about to come. The review is written in an over-the-top style. Basically, the review levels everyone in the room except the help. Comments such as the producer should have taken the money she spent on the show and opened a mental hospital to have her head examined are placed throughout the article.

Hearing the review read from the cellphone text and seeing all the reactions is worth the price of admission to watch this play. This is a definite parody on what a review might be. The exaggeration through comedy of the materials brings out the concepts of how rough a review can be.

Post Review

After the review, everyone starts to question how the show will survive after such a brutal review. They keep looking for that one good quote they can pull out to add to the marquee. They also debate if so much power should be given to one review. Will word of mouth about the play bring in enough of an audience. And the most crucial question of all – should they close the show that night.

Another character emerges who has been more in the background. That character is Ira Drew (Triney Sandoval) who identifies himself and is recognized as a tough critic. But he is also writing plays under an assumed name. His discovery of how brutal reviews can affect a show is enlightening.

The play ends on a more hopeful note and everyone tries to look ahead to new ventures. It is a tribute to the theater community’s ability to keep going on and not let life get them down.

It seems appropriate that this should be where the play ends and where the next phase of theater heads post pandemic. For the group of players in It’s Only a Play, “The Show Must Go On!” And go on it will.

How to See “It’s Only a Play”

It’s Only a Play streams virtually now through July 4th. Go to the George Street Playhouse website to purchase a Virtual Household Ticket. Once the purchase is complete, and email with the link arrives. You may view this on-demand at your leisure. However, once the link is clicked to begin viewing, you must finish within 48 hours.

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