Show Buzz

What does it take to become an overnight success?

2012-02-09T16:18:00.000-08:00

Each year shows like Shrek, Spamalot, Young Frankenstein and In the Heights—along with bus loads of talent—go out on the road. And, The Capitol Theatre is part of that road; it is one of a long list of stops on a National Tour. Here, in our hometown, a number of those talented people will be arriving .

They aren’t on Broadway yet and they probably don’t have a big movie deal waiting in the wings. They often sleep on busses, while someone drives all night. Sometimes they miss meals. Being out-of-towners for months at a time, life is filled with constant change: different people, towns, hotels, restaurants, theatres…. It’s the antithesis of the glamorous life—its showbiz—and if that’s what it takes to get them to Broadway, where they might become an “overnight success", they do it.

Over the next few weeks we’ll be following some of the touring cast from In the Heights and see what their lives looks like on this year’s national tour. So, look for updates on facebook (The Capitol Theatre), tweets on CapitolBuzz and of course…more blogs. Make plans to check back and follow along, post questions if you want, and get savvy on what it takes to tour a hit show! We hope to paint a real picture for you about what it really takes to become an overnight success.

Go Spidey!

2012-01-11T10:40:00.000-08:00

I posted on facebook last week about how much I enjoy it when the critics are wrong. Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark opened last year to horrible reviews and ridicule about the costliness of its production. The show continued to plug along, attempting to fix things with numerous changes.

Suddenly, it worked! Last week Spiderman took in almost $3 million—shattering the single week record for one of my very favorite shows, Wicked. Hats off to you, Spidey!

Those changes and the sheer will to succeed undoubtedly played a part in Spiderman’s story, which makes me think of the Capitol Theatre. When I first started working here, I remember being told that statistically, the Capitol shouldn’t be able to operate here. A community our size simply could not run a theatre of The Capitol’s grandeur… that in order to have more than 100,000 visitors each year (which it does), the Theatre needed to be in community more than double our size. According to normal trends, the Yakima Valley was just too small to keep a big theatre up and running.

And yet, since 1975, the Capitol Theatre has been ignoring the numbers, and defying the odds; busy nearly half the days of the year. And while that busy-ness and usage indicate the Capitol’s success, more importantly, I think those in-use days are the reason for that success.

Unlike many similar venues in other cities, our Theatre is home to so much more than just touring performances. The Capitol is the home for the Yakima Town Hall Lecture Series, and the place to enjoy Yakima Symphony Orchestra performances. The Capitol is the chosen venue for the Washington Music Educators Association conferences—providing thousands of aspiring musicians the opportunity to perform on a grand stage instead of a school gymnasium. It is the place where Pacific Northwest University medical students receive their ceremonial “white coats” before beginning their residencies. High school pageants, popular entertainers from Comedy Central, and (my favorite) hundreds and hundreds of little dancers… year after year they all choose the Capitol for their events, performances and recitals.

And that is the secret to the Theatre’s success and overcoming the odds. The Capitol is a true community theatre, utilized, loved by, and belonging to the community. Without those Town Hall attendees, those high school kids and those baby ballerinas, the Capitol simply couldn’t exist. Hats off to the Capitol and to the community, too! It’s so good to see the underdog win!

2011-12-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I’m no monster fan. The first time I stayed up late to watch a horror movie (I think I was 10), I discovered I was a devoted member of the “I-don’t-like-to-be-scared” club. In high school, while all my friends were screaming and laughing at scary flicks at the drive in, I was cowering in the back seat, counting the stitches of the car’s interior.

But Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein… now that’s a monster tale I’m completely ready to take in! Mel has replaced the scary scenes with funniness. He’s added in some ridiculous comedic romance (have you seen clips from “Roll in the Hay”?), and created a happy ending for the tale. And like Shrek (another monster show I completely adore), Young Frankenstein is a four truck show, which means huge production value… big staging… lots of lights… and I’m told “real” lightning for the “It’s Alive!” scene.

So count me in for Tuesday night’s opening performance. Along with 8 of my newest best friends (way to go, TweetSeat winners), I’ll be Puttin’ on the Ritz and kicking up my heels at the Capitol… and thoroughly enjoying this monster of a tale!

Creating Christmas Memories

2011-11-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

I think my two oldest babies, now 15 and almost 18, were just 2 and 4 the first time I took them to see The Nutcracker at The Capitol Theatre. We came early, dressed to the nines, and shopped for a watch for Daddy’s Christmas present. Then we joined the crowd shuffling into the magnificently decorated Theatre.

We were seated on the main floor, and as we waited for the show to begin, the kids and I gazed at the dome mural, pondering how anyone could paint up there. Though we had three seats, by the time the lights dimmed, the youngest, Kennedy, was on my lap and the oldest, Michael, was leaning in close.

The Magic began on stage, and for a little while they were both mesmerized by the dancers. Then the questions started.

“Why aren’t they talking?”

“Why is he doing that?”

“What’s happening?”

By the end of the first scene, when Michael asked, “Is it over?” I thought perhaps I had started them too young. I wanted a tradition, something they would always have. A special Christmas memory that would begin before they could remember.

But as the magic of the Nutcracker continued, I became reassured my babies weren’t too little to enjoy the show. Michael started to understand the story, and once the toy soldiers and the mice got into it, he was completely hooked!

Kennedy, though a bit younger, was quite content, and then fell asleep, awakening only briefly when the battle cannon went off, making us all jump with surprise.

Now, many Nutcrackers and A Christmas Carols later, Michael won’t accompany me to the Theatre—it’s just not cool to him—and Kennedy comes only if her busy social calendar allows. But the memory is there, the tradition set forth. And I imagine, in a few years, when they’re both off at college and they come home for the holidays, we’ll pull out the tradition once again. Thanks, Capitol.

Christina

The Trouble with Ratings

2011-11-09T12:23:00.000-08:00

I was asked the other day what was age appropriate for Spamalot. I responded that I was bringing my youngest son, who will be 13 next week. Having not seen the show yet, I also asked others who had seen it, and found that there was, “a little swearing (the “s” word), a few scenes of scantily dressed show girls, and a little adult content.” I passed that information on as well.

Then I saw the show. I asked my son at intermission what he thought so far. “Lots of boobies,” he smiled (he is, after all, a teenage boy). Yes, I had to agree there were lots of lovely women in stockings and such, but no actual nudity.

And what about the story line? “Hilarious,” he proclaimed, loving the overstuffed cow, the killer rabbit, and the naughty French people. We happily watched the second act, waiting with everyone else for the magical kiss.

For me and my kid, I was completely okay with the show. I’d rate it about PG, I guess. But after seeing it, I hoped I had not led astray the person who questioned me about the age appropriateness. There was a bit more than a little swearing, and the adult content was funny, but rude, and I imagine, offensive to some. And of course, there were a lot of boobies. I think therein lies the problem with rating shows. Not the boobies, but that what you find offensive, I may not.

So what about you? How would you rate the age appropriateness of Spamalot?

SPAMALOT Myths... Busted!

2011-11-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

Though I sit cloistered at my desk most hours of the day, a little Yakima rumbling has reached my ears. Rumor has it there are a few people in Yakima who think they won’t like Spamalot.

I know…WHAT?! Granted, it’s a small minority, but still. It’s hard for me to just sit idly by while they miss out on a night of raucous laughter, so I’m here to dispel the top three myths surrounding Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Myth #1 “I have a lot of friends who want to go, but we just can’t afford it.” No problem! We have special group rates available for groups of 10 or more! So get your friends together, give us a call (853-2787) and we’ll make you a deal you can’t refuse!

Myth #2 “I never liked Monty Python, so I won’t like this.” I say, Don’t be so hard on yourself! You laugh when someone tells a good joke, right? That’s all the skill and knowledge you need to have to enjoy Spamalot. Besides, what’s not to love about a show that was nominated for 14 Tony Awards, and won three of them, including Best Musical? It’s got action, dancing, violence and killer rabbits… it’s GOT to be good!

And finally:

Myth #3 “I can’t take my mom or sister or daughter. It’s too much a guy show.” I will admit there are a lot of fart jokes and the cutting off of arms and legs, which men of all ages typically find quite enjoyable. But there are also incredible voices and wonderful acting. I mean, the show won Best Musical! And I assure you that an equal number of men and women watched it on Broadway the year it won. Besides, it takes a lot more than passing gas to win a Tony Award!

So there you have it. Myths busted. Don’t miss out on this once in a Yakima lifetime chance to experience Monty Python’s hilarious comedy: Spamalot in three special shows on November 7 and 8. Call 853-2787 for tickets!

Christina

Why the Round Table is Round

2011-10-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

With thanks to Aleman Public Relations

We’re knights of the Round Table/ We dance when e’er we’re able/ We do routines and chorus scenes/ With footwork impecc-able./ We dine well here in Camelot/ We eat ham and jam and spam a lot./ We’re knights of the Round Table.

-Lyrics from the Spamalot song, “Knights of The Round Table” …

Like most legendary knights, King Arthur’s knight were men of courage, honor, dignity, courtesy and nobleness. They protected damsels from distress, honored and fought bravely for their king. They undertook dangerous quests like the search for The Holy Grail in Spamalot.

According to www.timelessmyths.com, these knights were usually of noble birth, who formed the backbone of the army because they were the only soldiers who could afford expensive armor and weapons, as well as the cost of training and maintaining a war-horse. When the knights attended a festival or council at the king’s main hall, those who sat at the head of the table, usually had precedence over others. These knights would feel envy and jealousy toward those of higher rank, sometimes leading to fights over who would take the seatat the head of the table.

To resolve these problems, legend has it the wise King Arthur resorted to having his table constructed in a rounded shape.The ingenuity of this design was a very simple way to foster equality. No onewould have precedence over others. The knights in Arthur’s company became knownas the “Knights of the Round Table.”

Another reason, this one religious, according to www.kingarthurknights.com,is that Arthur felt that “The Round Table was illustrative of the Eternity of God, the equality, unity, and comradeship of the Order, the singleness of purpose of all Knights.” In Arthur’s eyes, all his Knights were equals.

To ensure that the Knights of The Round Table lived and fought to the highest Order of Chivalry at the Court of King Arthur,the Knights were required to follow a strict code of honor and services.According Giovanni Boccaccio in his “De Casibus Virorum Illustrium” there were rules for the Knights to follow.

They were: (1) to never lay down arms; (2) to seek after wonders; (3) when called upon, to defend the rights of the weak with all one’s strength; (4) to injure no one; (5) not to attack one another; (6) to fight for the safety of one’s country;(7) to give one’s life for one’s country;(8) to seek nothing before honor; (9)never to break faith for any reason;(10) to practice religion most diligently; (11) to grant hospitality to anyone, each according to his ability; (12) whether in honor or disgrace, to make a report with the greatest fidelity to truth to those who keep the annals.

These were great men who have been kept alive through many stories, poems, movies, plays and now Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Back to school, back to work

2011-08-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

It always seems that when the heat rolls in, and the kids are out of school, and the garden is in full swing, and the fence needs painting, the desire to work--you know, the it's-your-job work--seems to diminish.

But just as sure, when the mornings turn a little cooler, and the back-to-school shopping is done, it's a little easier to get an entire day in, and somehow, I get WAY more accomplished.

So as I look toward the end of August, I feel a sense of excitement: a new Broadway season is right around the corner, I've got tickets to new shows in Seattle (Les Mis 0n the 27th!) and this year, I'm being sent to the Washington Arts Alliance conference.

The WAA brings together presenters, agents and performers, so you can actually sit down and talk about what you are hoping to book in the near future, and see what they have to offer.

On the evenings of the three days I'll be at the conference, I'll get to see snippets of real shows, which is so much better than just reading outlines. I'll be focusing most of my attention on youth theatre, but will be taking in all I can on shows that might perform in our 4th Street venue, as well.

That said, is there anything you'd like to see? Modern dance? Comedy? Sleight of Hand? Alternative? It will all be at the conference, so feel free to let me know!

Christina

Guest post: A young adult's look at live theatre

2011-05-23T08:35:00.001-07:00

The Capitol Theatre has been around for many years, sharing laughter, tears, happiness, drama, love and all other kinds of emotions.

When we see a play live, we see motion, expression, creativity, and practice. Now we, the audience, pay attention to how we feel and what we see, but I don't think people frequently pay really close attention to the actors/dancers/singers. We have no clue how much work it takes for them to perform with such precision.

When up on the stage, actors can feel a wide range of emotions. There must certainly be an adrenaline rush. But there may also be anxiety, fear, confidence, and maybe doubt. It’s not something I’d want to put myself through, but that's what makes a live performance LIVE! The drama and pressure. The sweat they shed, the pain of their bodies pushing for perfection, the summoning of emotion… They do it because they have to, yes, but also to show you, me, the audience, that they are good, they are worth coming to see perform.

Most people don’t know this, unless they have attended live performance. And most people my age (18) have never attended a live musical or play. Sadly, most of us are glued to a television or movie screen, seeing only the perfection that comes after hours of taping, and cutting and editing.

Where’s the excitement in that? I think adventure is what drives most of us, and live performance is a prime example of an adventure! The work that goes into it, the drama, the rush of it all… the magic that happens on stage... this is the thing we crave, even if we don’t know it.

Live drama has been around so much longer than television and movies. It’s got history. And compared to what it costs to see a movie these days, you can actually enjoy a musical or play relatively cheaply!

I invite you to come to a show, to be the one near the stage hearing the actors' hearts pound of excitement, see the sweat of dancers while they move in unison, marvel at singers with their beautiful voices of talent. To all my friends and all the young people out there, join me and experience the best thing that’s been around for a long time…live theatre!

Tiffany Wright

Memphis... on the Big Screen

2011-05-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

Several of us from the office went to see Memphis the Musical last night. Only it wasn’t the stage show, exactly. It was a big screen version of the live Broadway production, complete with surround sound applause and a 15 minute intermission.

Personally, I had mixed feelings about the idea. I don’t know much about Broadway or anything, but I do know that experiencing a live performance is very different from watching a movie. And I think that perhaps a lot of people don’t go see live performances because they have the easier, cheaper option of seeing movies.

That said, I think the main issue for me was that the show wasn’t quite a movie or a live performance. And it left me wanting.

Like a movie, many different cameras were used to record the production, and then the different angles were patched together. This is standard practice; watch any television program and you can note that the angle or view of a scene changes at least every four seconds.

The positive aspect of this filming practice is the close ups of characters in particularly emotional moments. Headshots of a kiss or a stroked cheek… at a stage production, your vision is directed to these events by changes in lighting and stillness elsewhere on the stage. But still, you must pay attention. In a movie, two big faces fill the whole screen… It’s really hard to miss.

While I enjoy watching a nice kiss, I think the downside of the different camera angles and views outweigh that benefit. The movie told me where I had to look, and gave me no option to take in the whole stage.

But the whole stage is what makes a live performance so grand! The subtle background movements, the magnitude of an entire chorus line singing and dancing… this is where a palpable energy comes from! This is the very thing that makes watching a live performance an interactive experience. It’s the thing that makes no two performances—even of the same show—exactly alike.

Seeing Memphis the Musical was a good experience; one that reinforced beliefs that I have acquired since I began seeing live performances just a few short years ago. There is an excitement—an energy— generated at live productions. At some shows, it’s disappointingly small. At others, it almost blows you out of your seat. And it is that blast of power, rushing off of the stage, slamming into the audience, and careening right back into the actors, that keeps me going to the theatre. In spite of the expertise of the camera crew and the wonders of surround sound, that’s something a camera just can’t capture.

SPRING AWAKENING

2011-01-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

In a time when viewers are accosted with images of sex and violence nearly every time they flip on the TV, do we really want to go see Spring Awakening?

Granted, the show does include coarse language, nudity, and adult themes. One song is entitled, “I’m F*cked.” There is a scene in which young lovers have their first encounter—right there, on the stage. And in another, a young man strikes a young woman across the face—hard. Spring Awakening is not a show for young kids.

But it also touches that deep dark corner of passion and angst that we’ve all experienced at sometime. It reminds more mature viewers of what it was like (and is still like) to be a teen, trying to grow up in a world that is sometimes bent on keeping them young.

Spring Awakening gives—no, shouts—views on thought-provoking themes that (face it, folks) kids need to consider. Lust… hypocrisy… abuse… No one likes to delve into these subjects with a teen, yet that is exactly what they need if they are to avoid many pitfalls of life.

Audience members will blush and squirm a little in their seats; they will laugh and quite possibly cry. They will come away from Spring Awakening with new perceptions, and perhaps, more open minds.

Because that’s what Spring Awakening does… It pokes into that corner of the soul that we work so hard to hide and ignore. That very part that makes us all human.

"Cirque"... Not just du Soleil Anymore

2010-08-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

There was a time when just about everyone had seen—or at least had heard of–Cirque du Soleil. You remember those muscular athletes, twisting and throwing one another around a stage in a way that made you worry for their safety? They seemed to go a few steps beyond what the human body should be able to do… all the while looking graceful and beautiful beyond belief.

In actuality, Cirque du Soleil was just one of several nouveau circus companies. While each brings its own style and flavor to performances, they all share a few things in common, including the absence of animals and other elements of “American circus”.

Cirque le Masque will be performing their latest show “Carnivale” in The Capitol Theatre November 5 and 6, 2010. Captivating audiences with an energetic explosion of sight, sound, imagination, and awe-inspiring physicality, Carnivale will present Yakima with the finest acrobats, aerial artists and gymnasts performing incredible feats, guaranteed to move you to the edge of your seat.

Carivale has won a slew of awards, and the show’s aerial acts are truly thrilling and death-defying. The acrobats are able to balance in ways that appear impossible, making audience members from 5 to 95 ask, “How can they do that?” Combining awe-inspiring physical feats with comedy produces a show that will leave the house screaming with laughter. Cirque Le Masque is a perfect blend of live theatrical entertainment and cutting edge special effects completely thrilling audiences of all ages.

The Second City--in Yakima's NEW Black Box Theatre

2010-07-22T14:23:00.000-07:00

Called “A Comedy Empire” by the New York Times, The Second City is the leading “college” for improv-based sketch comedy, and the troupe is headed to Yakima! If someone has made it big in comedy, odds are he or she has been to The Second City, honing timing skills and developing lightning quick mental reactions that “bring the house down” time and again.

Their newest tour: The Second City 50^th Anniversary Tour-The Best Scenes from the Last 50 Years, will be playing in The Capitol Theatre’s new Black Box theatre for a week, giving you the opportunity to get a glimpse at the next rising stars of comedy.

The Anniversary Tour takes events and pop culture from the past and bridges it to the present. You'll see snippets of scenes written by a plethora of comedy greats… Alan Arkin, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey and more… all who graced the stages of The Second City over the last 50 years. But you'll also see how the current ensemble of future stars has used the innovations of their predecessors to create comedy that is wholly and inextricably of its time—comedy that speaks to our economic woes, our political hopes and what it means to be a living in such extraordinary times.

The Second City has always served as a bit of a tonic for times of difficulty and upheaval. It’s their job to help us laugh at what scares us; to make the unfunny funny; and to provide audiences everywhere with a chance to let go for a couple hours and just laugh.

The Second City, right here in Yakima. It’s not too early start making plans… You won’t want to miss this one!

October 5th through 9th, 2010, in your NEW Black Box Theatre!

That's Progress!

2010-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

Looking toward the back of the Capitol Theatre from 4th Street, it's hard to believe that less than a year ago the area was an empty lot.

Then the digging started.

Soon the basement appeared... Good bye storage fees!

The roof of the basement became the floor of the production center.

By winter, the production center walls were up, and construction turned to the Black box theatre.

Can't wait to see the signage at night...back lit in blue l.e.d.!

Almost there...

How One Mom Found Bliss...at the Theatre

2010-02-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

When a girl gets to be that tween-teen age, it can be hard for a mother to connect with her. For many girls, the onset of those years means a) moms are stupid, b) moms know NOTHING about anything, and c) moms are embarrassing.

As the mother of a 13 year old, I fit this bill perfectly: I know nothing about anything, I have no idea how tough my daughter’s life is, and I’m SO embarrassing… or so I’m told. In reality, I’m pretty hip—I mean for an old person—but I digress…

As the mortifying mom, I’m frequently on the lookout for ways to connect with my daughter, so that hopefully, she will remember that I wasn’t always so stupid, out of touch and embarrassing as I seem to be now.

Last night’s performance of Annie at the Capitol Theatre turned out to be one of those connections. Sitting in the near-full house, humming along to songs we both already knew, I saw my daughter laugh, smile and giggle her way through two and a half delicious hours. Alone, but surrounded by about 1,450 of our closest friends, we were able to sit back and enjoy something together. Our small amount of whispered conversation left no room for my motherly stupidity or ignorance to show. The darkness shrouded any embarrassment I might inflict. In fact, we were both so engrossed in the acting and music and the delightfully evil Miss Hannigan, that even if I had committed any social faux pas, they’d have been overlooked. And for a few hours, it was just my daughter and me, being a mom and her kid.

So I’d like to send a little message to those who gave me that experience: the cast of Annie, the crew and support people, The Capitol Theatre.

Thanks. It was perfect.

Tearin' Down a Parkin' Lot to Make Paradise

2010-02-05T14:35:00.000-08:00

A few notes from Progress Meeting 2/3/10
Wow, progress is moving right along and we are right on schedule to finish on time! They should be done laying the bricks today (TODAY!) for the second floor. At the end of the week they will be acid etching the building so that when they paint the walls, the paint will stick.

A ramp from the basement of the new facility through dressing room 4 is scheduled to be poured, which will make moving big, heavy stuff between the old and new basements much easier.

The giraffe doors are gone, but fortunately, all the original 1920 brick from that section will be used in the expansion of that area. So this little piece of the Theatre (called the dog house) will be new, it will be constructed from all old brick. Pretty cool!

Interior walls are also going up. They’ll eventually form dressing rooms and restrooms. Should take about a month to complete, then the roof will begin March 3.
Everything is starting to move faster and it’s amazing to think how just a few months ago it was all just a parking lot. So you might say we tore up a parking lot to make a paradise…

Plans for New Year's Day

2009-12-18T11:16:00.000-08:00

Let's face it. Odds are, if you're a woman, and living with a man, come January 1, your house will be filled with the whistles, grunts and cheering from numerous football games televised across the country.

If you like football, that's great! But some women don't. And even some who do, will reach a saturation point long before the final whistle.

So this year, instead of moaning and groaning about the endless games, why not get together for a Girls Night Out? A little dinner, maybe a glass of wine and a show...

Sounds pretty good, huh?

Lucky for you, downtown Yakima has more dining opportunities than it's had in years, and the choices of yummy wineries is growing by leaps and bounds. And this year, on January 1, the Capitol Theatre will offer two shows of the best romantic musical in years: The Wedding Singer(with a third show on Saturday, January 2)!

Based on the popular movie of the same name, The Wedding Singer is a bona fide "feel good" show about love. Featuring big hair, popped collars, leg warmers and other images from the 1980s, The Wedding Singer will take you and your gal pals on a trip back in time, and leave you dancing in your seats!

Grab the girls, get you tickets (853-2782) and make your plan to head to downtown Yakima on January 1st. In just a couple weeks, your Girls Night Out opportunity will be here, and you won't be spending it watching football!

Spreading Holiday Cheer

2009-12-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

Backstage is a group of dedicated women, committed making sure the Capitol Theatre thrives.

They also do a wonderful job of spreading holiday cheer and good will each December, when they decorate the interior of the Theatre, and make homemade peppermint bark, that they deliver to many local underwriters, program advertisers, and sponsors of Capitol Theatre programming.

Thank you, Backstage, for helping making the holidays a little brighter!

The Nutcracker!

2009-12-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

After months of weekend rehearsals and countless hours of practicing at home and in studios, the big event is almost here! The local dancers selected to perform with the Eugene Ballet in The Nutcracker will have their chance to shine this Saturday, December 12, at 2:00 and 7:30 P.M.

Since Early October, more than 75 dancers, ages 5 to 18, have come together on the Capitol Theatre stage on Sundays, reviewing their steps, cues, and stage placement. When the curtain opens this weekend, they'll be ready.

Arielle, who will be dancing as a dragon, has attended each rehearsal. "They are fun," she says, "But it is a pretty big promise... to come every weekend."

Tickets are still available for the 2009 The Nutcracker, though the matinee is almost sold out! Call 509-853-2787.

Daring Rescue Leads to Safe Puppet

2009-10-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

In a frightful turn of events, what began as a commercial shoot ended in a suspenseful kidnapping & eventual rescue by two brave Capitol Theatre employees.

On Wednesday evening, Mr. Puppet* (not his real name) starred in a yet to be released television commercial shoot. No details were available at the time of this report, but it was believed that everything went as planned and that all involved parties were home and in bed by 9:00 PM.

However, when employees arrived at the Capitol Theatre administrative offices the following morning, a startling discovery was made. An email message and photo showed a blindfolded Mr. Puppet, clearly being held against his will. The accompanying message "$0.50 or the puppet sleeps with the puppet-fish!" clarified any doubts that our felt friend had been kidnapped!

Within the hour, a second picture and message had been sent. This time, Mr. Puppet was unmistakably under physical duress, as he was shown bound and under the glare of an interrogation lamp. "1 hour or you start receiving felt fingers, and then felt ears!" read the accompanying threat.

Ryan Messer, the Director of Donor Development for the Capitol Theatre, was nonplussed by the threats and called a press conference.

“The Capitol Theatre does not negotiate with terrorists. We will hunt this person down and we will find him,” he stated with the stomp of a large foot.

When a third photo was sent, showing Mr. Puppet precariously perched on top of a cooler filled with a vile, biohazard material—reeking oddly of soured, wet towels—Messer snapped, and grabbing Capitol Theatre stage manager Kandice Flowers announced, “We’re goin’ in!”
Within moments of entering the Theatre facility, the two brave rescuers had uncovered the whereabouts of a trembling Mr. Puppet, and had him sipping coffee and wrapped in a warm blanket. He was brought back to the administrative offices and was last seen resting comfortably on a couch.

In an interview following the daring rescue, Messer was overheard in a near rant. “We’ll catch that (beep)! “You just wait. We’ll hunt him down and smoke ‘im out!

For the full story in pictures, please visit: http://bit.ly/1cIaRL

EDGE Series

2009-10-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago, I knew something was up at the office. Our development director, Ryan, was watching a lot of YouTube, viewing the same video over and over. Then an odd little puppet was delivered. Since then, I’ve caught glimpses of marketing and TV people meeting, and have overheard talk of explosions, split second timing and large high-heeled shoes.

It turns out we’re making a television commercial to introduce the new Broadway on the EDGE series. I believe it’s Ryan’s brainchild, and the brilliant people at KNDO know how to put it all together. Don’t quote me, but I think it involves a sledge hammer and a puppet, a bad wig and—I think—a guy in drag. Hmmmm… I really can’t wait to see the final project. I’ll let you know when it’s out there!

2009-09-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

It’s embarrassing, but I’ll admit it. I don’t recognize most of Town Hall’s guests. Perhaps I just don’t pay enough attention to the world, or I filter out too much of the news in an effort to avoid becoming depressed.

Okay. Maybe I’m just a little ignorant.

So, when I heard that Dan Buettner was coming to Town Hall, it didn’t ring a bell. I googled him, and was pleasantly surprised at some of the cool stuff this guy has done, primarily his Earthtreks, Inc. endeavors.

Mr. Buettner has bicycled across several countries. In 1993, he began transmitting videos and stories from the places he was traveling via the internet. Soon hundreds of thousands of students we’re “traveling” with him, asking questions, getting responses, and seeing the world almost first hand. These trans-world education experiences became the foundation for Earthtreks, Inc.

What a cool way to make a difference.

Mr. Buettner will be presenting at the Capitol Theatre on Wednesday, October 23.

I, for one, will be sure to be there.

Giraffe What?!

2009-09-22T15:32:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what kind of doorway one would need for something really tall, like say, a giraffe?

In the early 20th century, bike-riding bears, dancing baby elephants, and even bowing giraffes were popular acts appearing on Vaudeville tours. Much like the variety shows of the 1950s, Vaudeville was family friendly entertainment, and the Capitol Theatre was the venue in Central Washington for top entertainment.

If you’ve ever toured the Capitol Theatre, you may have noticed the giraffe doors, located on the South side of the stage. Funny to see—since giraffes haven’t graced the stage in many years—the doors have no practical purpose today, but to perhaps make one ponder how much entertainment has changed in the past 75 years or so.

This week, as part of the Theatre construction and remodel, the old giraffe doors came down. I rushed over from the offices to see them up close and to take a few pictures. They somehow look a bit smaller, lying on the stage, but the 18 foot doorway, now wide open, still makes me wonder about how tall a giraffe really is and how odd it would be to have one on the stage.

It's Official!

2009-09-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

Though actual digging commenced in August, this past Tuesday, September 8, marked the official groundbreaking for the Capitol Theatre expansion! An impressive number of Theatre friends and community supporters turned out to hear what Senators Curtis King and Jim Clements, and Mayor Dave Edler, and City Manager Dick Zais had to say about the project and to see the golden shovels in action.

As a sort of “behind the scenes” person, I was inspired to experience the excitement and anticipation that filled the Theatre stage as honored guests spoke. I mean, I’m already excited about the whole thing… I work there. I look at the plans everyday and watch and photograph the construction progress. But to have others—especially those whose plates I know are very full—take the time to come and speak about the Theatre and all it means to Yakima, and all the expansion will do for the community… that had a pretty big impact on me personally.

Thanks to all who were able to enjoy the event, and those who sent their well-wishes. And of course, thanks to those who had the vision to create whole idea, long before I even became a part of the Theatre.

Quick Update

2009-09-02T14:15:00.001-07:00

Sorry I've been a bit delinquent in keeping things up on the blog! I took a vacation, and just haven't gotten all the way back into the swing of things :-/

It's exciting to come to work each morning and view the progress going on behind the Theatre. From the first digging, to the setting of the giant retaining blocks (they look a lot like huge legos), to the drilling of the elevator shaft and the big hole cut into the back wall of the Theatre just this week... Each day brings evidence of real PROGRESS!

We're working on getting a live feed up on the Web, so that you can check in anytime, 24-7. Feel free to leave comments and let us know what you think. Join us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Yakima-WA/The-Capitol-Theatre/134196885575?ref=ts) or follow us on Twitter (search Shorty's House).

We want to know what you think! After all, it's YOUR Theatre.

Addams Family

2009-08-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

The Addams Family... A Musical?! What could be better than that? http://bit.ly/MUb5I

It's Happening!

2009-07-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

Construction is really getting underway at the Capitol Theatre! Though there has been much activity behind the scenes with architects and contractors and the City, I am one of those people who like to SEE the progress. And it’s happening now!

We were all kicked out of the parking lot this week, but didn’t believe we really needed to go until we took a coffee break today and saw the cars being fenced in! Needless to say, we were all more than happy to move them.

I think asphalt removal begins this weekend or Monday. Then digging starts. I will be on vacation for a bit, but will do my best to get someone to keep you updated with fresh photos.

In the mean time, if you’re out and about Downtown Yakima, drive down 4th Street behind the Theatre and check out the progress!

A Spidey Musical?! Can't WAIT!!!

2009-07-24T14:32:00.000-07:00

Some of the initial casting for the forthcoming Broadway musical Spider-Man Turn Off the Dark has just been announced. Alan Cumming (Broadway revival of Cabaret, The Threepenny Opera, Design For Living) will play Spider-Man's nemesis, the Green Goblin. As previously rumored, movie actress Evan Rachel Wood (Whatever Works, The Wrestler) will play Peter Parker's girlfriend, Mary Jane. Spider-Man is being directed by the outstanding Julie Taymor (The Lion King). The musical, which will be scored by rock band U2, is scheduled to begin performances at Broadway's Hilton Theatre in February 2010. WOO HOO!!

Cribs video progress

2009-07-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

I have new, even bigger respect for film makers. I can't even figure out how to get our "footage" out of the camera and into a computer, much less how to edit it! Having to call in the big guns at the TV station.

New "Cribs" Coming Your Way!

2009-07-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

We just finished shooting a "Cribs"-type tour of the Theatre, featuring gangsta-style Sean. Trying to figure out how to edit it down right now. Stay tuned!

Red Tie Concerts & Events

2009-07-16T10:21:00.001-07:00

Red Tie Concerts & Events

Shared via AddThis

Nice to Hear

2009-07-13T12:59:00.000-07:00

I just got off of the phone today with a woman who just returned from New York. Traveling with a group of friends, including children, they just couldn't afford the cost of Broadway show tickets for 8.

She was happy to have her season reservation packet waiting for her when she returned home, and she commented, "We don't need to go to New York to see shows --we have the beautiful Capitol Theatre right here."

Look for a New Nutty Broadway Musical

2009-07-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

Rupert Holmes (Say Goodnight Gracie) and Marvin Hamlisch (A Chorus Line) are working on a new Broadway musical based on the classic Jerry Lewis film comedy The Nutty Professor. Lewis himself will direct the production of this Nutty musical, which is aiming to hit Broadway in the 2010-2011 season.

The 1963 movie The Nutty Professor, which Lewis starred in, is about Julius Kelp, a geeky genius who creates a potion that transforms him into smooth operator Buddy Love. Watch for it!

News on David Cook

2009-07-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

Our Box Office is being flooded with calls wanting the complete scoop on DC. So, here it is.

David Cook, Sunday, August 23, 2009; 8:00p.m., doors at 7:00p.m.

Cost of ticket $34.00, General Admission.

Presale: 7-13-09 starting at 11am; Code word is "DAVID". On sale to the public on 7-17-09. Presale is available through the Capitol Theatre Box Office, internet at ticketswest.com, or 1-800-325-SEAT (7328)

Update on the Interns

2009-07-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Where are those smiling faces now?

STAND-UP COMEDY WORKSHOP

2009-07-08T12:10:00.000-07:00

A full-day workshop with veteran comedian and teacher Chris Molineux - (Just for Laughs - Inspector Gadget) - that covers all aspects of writing and performance: timing, voices, movement, facial expression etc. Useful tools to help stimulate and improve writing skills will also be covered. Small class size ensures one-on-one instruction - find out about your own personal style of humor and how to make the most of it. Great for actors, presenters, aspiring comedians or anyone looking for a fun and unique challenge.

Date: Saturday - July 11th - 11 am - 5 pm
Location: Carmen's Comedy Club - Selah
Cost: $75

For details and registration:
e-mail: info@laughlearnlead.com

chrismolineux.com

Office Fun

2009-07-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

What happens when a co-worker insults another co-worker, then leaves for vacation?

This...

Very Cool... And this Guy's Coming to Yakima!

2009-06-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

Geoffrey Canada, president and CEO of the Harlem Children’s Zone, is being honored with the William Randolph Hearst Foundation 2009 John W. Gardner Leadership Award. Since 1990, Canada has worked to help children and families in Central Harlem break the cycle of generational poverty. Launched in 1997, Harlem Children’s Zone offers a comprehensive set of educational, social service, and community-building programs that benefit thousands of low-income children and families, and is working to perfect a community-development model that can be replicated across the country.

I learned about this guy through NPR. His approach to breaking the poverty cycle is innovative and effective, and I can’t wait to listen to him when he comes to Yakima. Canada will appear April 14, 2010 on the Capitol Theatre stage as part of the Yakima Town Hall Lecture Series. Call 966-0930 for more information.

Sean the Intern

2009-06-22T14:35:00.001-07:00

I am the other intern this summer for The Capitol Theatre. I am awfully excited about being part of the theatre and becoming active in the city of Yakima. I have lived in this community for a majority of my life. I graduated from West Valley High School and am currently one semester away from receiving my degree from Washington State University.

Kurt the Intern

2009-06-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody out in the blog-o-sphere! I'm Kurt Liebrecht, the new intern for the Capitol Theatre. I'll tell you a little bit about myself, I'm a Senior to be at Washington State University pursuing a degree in Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations. GO COUGS! I'm interning at the Capitol for a couple of reasons. I want to gain knowledgeable experience in a work setting and gaining experience with hands on work. I also want to graduate on time and this helps. I will be posting all summer so keep posted on our upcoming shows and hope all have a wonderful Monday if you can!

Kurt Liebrecht

Evidence!

2009-06-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

According to the Spirit Research Society, the Capitol Theatre does indeed have a "benevolent spirit!" They even got a picture of "a mass of energy" which is apparently, how spirits manifest themselves sometimes. (See upper left of the picture)

I thought the coolest thing were the sound bites they got. I'll try to figure out how to upload one, but all three were very faint. With good speakers, I did hear a voice, and twice it answered a direct question.

The clairvoyant said she saw him... a man in his 40s wearing a blue work shirt and jeans. I was a little creeped out that she saw a child too, about 4 or 5 years. She said he comes to play in the Theatre.

All in all it wa interesting. A little creepy, but interesting. Any comments?

Tomorrow's the Day

2009-06-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

It's the 10th, which means tomorrow afternoon, the ghostbuster people will be presenting their findings.
Can't wait!

Official Paranormal Findings Coming Soon!

2009-05-28T14:06:00.000-07:00

The official unveiling of the paranormal investigators' findings is scheduled for Thursday, June 11. Rumor from Theatre crew is that much ghostly activity was going on the night of May 15, when The Spirit Research Society and Theatre crew members spent six hours searching for evidence of Shorty.

I myself begged off the task… partly because I’m pretty busy, and partly because I don’t really want any chance of coming face to face with a ghost!

Be sure to check back and find out if Shorty really does exist!

On the Lookout for Shorty

2009-05-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

If you've been in Yakima very long, no doubt you've heard of Shorty, the Capitol Theatre ghost. He's purported to be a friendly guy, with a little mischievous streak. Rumor has it he moves things around at night, flushes toilets, and can sometimes be heard walking across the stage.

No matter how you feel about Shorty's existence, you'll be intrigued by The Spirit Research Society's upcoming investigation of the Capitol Theatre. If you're a believer, The Society's findings may be just what you need to convince your friends you really aren't crazy. If you're more inclined to think Shorty is just the product of overactive imaginations, you'll probably find the thought of a team of invbestigatores spending the night in the Theatre somewhat entertaining. Can you here the "Ghostbusters" music starting?

Check back for updates and eventually, a full report on what The Society finds. In the meantime, make sure you're not the last one out of Theatre...

The Dowsy Chaperone

2009-04-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

Saw the Drowsy Chaperone last Friday.

One word: Loved it!

Okay, yes, it’s two words, but the show was terrific! I took my 12 year old daughter and her friend and they both loved it. We ran in to the neighbor boy (14) and his cousin (16), and they loved it! While watching Friday night, I thought how much my own mother would enjoy the show and I got her tickets to the matinee.

Yeah, she loved it, too.

It's inspiring to know that REAL entertainment can be had, without resorting to naughtiness (ie. sex), gross profanity, or major blood and guts. Not that I don’t like those things… just not when I have my kids or my mother along.

If you ever get the chance to see this show, do it.

You'll love it.

Crew Call? what's That?

2009-04-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

“Crew call” is when 40 to 50 people show up early the morning of a show, ready to begin unloading the show equipment, assemble it, set the stage and lights, and get everything ready to go for the evening performance. When I show up to the office around 8:00 AM, these guys (and girls) are already hard at work, rolling tremendously heavy—and sometimes dangerously tippy—boxes and cases down the truck ramps, across the parking lot, and then down another ramp to the stage level. (The new Production Center, being built this year, will significantly expedite this process through the use of a new trucking dock. But more about that later…)

The crew also works the stage during the performances. They are the ones responsible for moving scenery and equipment between scenes, operating lights, and raising and lowering curtains and backdrops. After the final performance of a show, they take everything apart and pack it back into the touring trucks. After a mop of the stage floor, load out usually winds up around 2:00 AM.

A tough, dirty job? Oh yeah. But the shows can’t go on without them.

One special kid

2009-04-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

Earlier this spring, Thomas and Friends—A Circus Comes to Town hit the Capitol Theatre stage, bringing in a full house of adoring fans.

Four-year-old Isaac Esquivel was one of those lucky audience members, and deservedly so. Recently diagnosed with leukemia, Isaac has spent time over the past year being poked and prodded to determine why he wasn’t well. Since he’s such a huge fan of the little tank engine, Isaac’s parents felt he really deserved to see the show.

When the Capitol Theatre learned Isaac’s story, and discovered that his family was a little short on funds for tickets, the Theatre donated the tickets to them. They even arranged for a thrilled Isaac to meet “Sir Topham Hat” after the show!

“We love being able to help out,” says Gay Parker, General Manager for the theatre. “Being accessible to everyone is part of our mission.”

Welcome!

2009-04-17T08:40:00.001-07:00

You've found the Capitol Theatre's new blog spot! This is the place to find out how Steve and the gang make a show happen, to get an inside peak at what goes on behind the curtain, and to find out what's coming up.

It's also the perfect palce to let us know what YOU want to know. We want to know what you think, what you'd like to see and whether or not you're excited (and in-the-know) about the new black box theatre, which will open in 2010.

So join, us, check in regularly and be a part of the Capitol Theatre Show Buzz! We're waiting for you...