The Peoria Limelight

Old News Archives

(04/23/07) Peoria will have the opportunity to experience a unique performance this summer: the first local performance of Riders of the Purple Wage, a musical based on world-famous science-fiction author (and Peoria native) Philip Jose Farmer's novella of the same name.

Performances are June 15th - 17th and 21st - 24th, and will be held at the Apollo Theatre in downtown Peoria. Auditions are coming up this weekend (April 28th at 29th at 1:00 pm) at Unity Church. These dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar and the Audition Callboard.

Program advertisements are still available for this historic event! For more information, contact Zach Gittrich at 309-339-7089 or (309) 682-8856.

(04/23/07) Corn Stock Theatre is proud to announce the cast list for their upcoming production of The Nerd:

• Willum Cubbert - Grant Ward
• Tansy McGinnis - Lee Ann Roling Hale
• Axel Hammond - Shane Pankey
• Warnock Waldgrave - Jim Stout
• Clelia Waldgrave - Helen Engelbrecht
• Thor Waldgrave - Jack Grant
• Rick Stedman - Mike Reams

Director Lisa Stout would like to thank all of the talented individuals who auditioned. She would also like to remind the cast that they will have their first read-through on Saturday, April 28th at 2 pm in the Peoria Players lobby. Please let Lisa know ASAP if you cannot attend.

(04/17/07) Community Players Theatre in Bloomington recently announced their 2007-2008 season:

• Mister Roberts - September 7th - 9th, 13th - 16th, 20th - 22nd, 2007
• Fiddler on the Roof - November 2nd - 4th, 8th - 11th, 15th - 18th, 2007
• The Mousetrap - January 11th - 13th, 17th - 20th, 24th - 26th, 2008
• Crazy For You - February 29th, March 1st - 2nd, 6th - 9th, 13th - 16th, 2008
• Father of the Bride - May 2nd - 4th, 8th - 11th, 15th - 17th, 2008

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(04/02/07) Peoria native Ben Jones recently emailed me to let me know that he will be performing as Ravenal in Broadway By the Bay's upcoming production of Show Boat in San Mateo, California. Performances run through April 22nd. Congratulations, Ben!

(03/28/07) In-the-know reader Laura Miller has informed me that the spring production for Bradley University has been changed to Barefoot in the Park. The dates remain the same (April 26th - 29th, May 3rd - 6th). This has been updated on the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(03/15/07) Beware the Ides of March!

Just kidding. The only news today is good news. Both Peoria Players Theatre and Prairie Fire Theatre have recently announced their upcoming seasons.

Peoria Players Theatre:

• The Sound of Music - September 7th - 9th, 12th - 16th, 2007
• The Sting - October 5th - 7th, 10th - 14th, 2007
• My Way, A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra - November 9th - 11th, 14th - 18th, 2007
• Little Women - February 1st - 3rd, 6th - 10th, 2008
• Steel Magnolias - March 7th - 9th, 12th - 16th, 2008
• Urinetown - May 2nd - 4th, 7th - 11th, 2008

Prairie Fire Theatre:

• Songs For a New World - June 15th - 17th, 22nd - 24th, 2007
• Annie Get Your Gun - August 2rd - 5th, 10th - 12th, 2007
• The Story Goes On - October 12th - 14th, 2007

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(02/19/07) Peoria Players Theatre is pleased to announce the cast list for their upcoming musical The Full Monty. Information about the show, as well as the cast list, can be found here.

Directors Lisa and Jim Stout say they "would like to thank everyone who auditioned. There were many talented people which made our jobs very difficult. Please be aware that there a several roles that have yet to be filled. We will have a company meeting on Thursday, February 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Peoria Players lobby. Please plan on attending as we will be discussing our upcoming rehearsal schedule, handling costume fittings and reading through the script."

(01/23/07) I'm happy to announce that this Friday (1/26) I will be hosting another Musical Theatre Open Mic night at the Waterhouse down on the riverfront. Bring your sheet music and get ready to sing some songs! Master Pianist and Sight-Reader Tony Roberts will be on hand for your accompaniment needs, and the bar will be open (for those of you of age!).

The festivities should kick off around 10:00 pm, or whenever I get there after Pippin rehearsal.

Come perform in a friendly, supportive, wildly fun environment. Spread the word and tell all your friends! It should be a night of big happy singing funtime!!

The Waterhouse is located at 619 Water Street, along the riverfront in Peoria, next to Kelleher's and just upstairs from Rhodell's Brewery.

(01/22/07) Community Players Theatre are holding auditions for the classic piece of drama, Inherit the Wind on January 22nd and 23rd at 7:00 at their theatre in Bloomington. There are over 20 roles for men alone, so get out there and try out!

(01/10/07) Peoria Players Theatre recently announced their 2007-2008 season:

• The Sound of Music - September 7th - 16th, 2007
• The Sting - October 5th - 14th, 2007
• Evita - November 9th - 18th, 2007
• Little Women - February 1st - 10th, 2008
• Steel Magnolias - March 7th - 16th, 2008
• How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying - May 2nd - 11th, 2008

(11/12/06) Peoria Players Theatre is pleased to announce the cast list for their upcoming production of Pippin. The cast list can be found here.

Director Chip Joyce says "To everyone who auditioned - I was overwhelmed and overjoyed by our audition turnout. Thank you so much again for sharing your time and your talent. I'm sorry this is a smaller cast show - some tough decisions were made and you were all wonderful. I hope to work with all of you someday. "

The first rehearsal will be held on Thursday, November 16th at 7:00. The location is still TBA, but the cast will be emailed as soon as the location is set.

(10/29/06) On November 8th, Broadway actor Euan Morton is coming to Richwoods High School for a discussion about his career and to sing some songs. There will be two sessions on November 8th, from 9:00 - 11:30. Morton is probably best known for his Tony-nominated performace as the lead role in "Taboo." CDs will be on sale and autographs and pictures will be available. For more information, call Connie Tumminelli at RHS at 693-4400.

(09/28/06) The Caterpillar Employees' Mixed Chorus is pleased to announce performances are fast approaching for their 2006 show, Annie Get Your Gun! Performances run October 11th - 15th at Eastlight Theatre, and tickets are only $5.

For more information, or for tickets, contact the Eastlight Theatre Box Office at 699-7469.

(09/26/06) Hire a babysitter! Call off work! Reschedule that back waxing! Do whatever you have to do, but don't miss it! The Broadway Open Mic Night returns to the Waterhouse on Thursday, October 5th.

Featuring our very own premiere accompanist/sight-reader Tony Roberts, the Open Mic series has been a staple of the Peoria theatrical community for several years. Bring your favorite showtune sheet music (or borrow from the community pile!) and perform in a friendly, supportive, wildly fun environment.

Since it's a "school night," we'll be running a little earlier than usual. Doors will open at 7:00, and we should be done by 11:00 or so. As always, the bar will be serving those of age, should you need a shot of courage before tackling that tricky Sondheim, but the stage is open to the under-21 crowd, too.

So, spread the word and tell all your friends! It should be a night of big happy singing funtime!!

The Waterhouse is located at 619 Water Street, along the riverfront in Peoria, next to Kelleher's and just upstairs from Rhodell's Brewery.

(09/21/06) With the start of the new school year, many local colleges and universities have announced their upcoming theatre seasons. The Central Illinois Theatre Calendar now contains the 2006-2007 seasons for Bradley University, Illinois State University, Illinois Wesleyan, Illinois Central College, and Eureka College.

Edit: Special thanks to investigative reporters Laura Miller and Dave Montague for the Bradley performance dates!

(09/08/06) Peoria Players Theatre is proud to announce that they have received the rights for their youth theatre to perform Disney's High School Musical next summer. Performances will be August 1st - 5th, 2007. This show has been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(07/18/06) Corn Stock Lab Theatre has recently announced their upcoming 2006-2007 season:

• Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah - September 29th - October 1st, 5th - 7th, 2006
• Escanaba in da Moonlight - October 27th - 29th, November 2nd - 4th, 2006
• When You Comin' Back, Red Ryder? - January 26th - 28th, February 1st - 3rd, 2007
• Autobahn - March 2nd - 4th, 8th - 10th, 2007

These performance dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(07/18/06) Conklin's Barn 2 Dinner Theatre has also announced their 2007 season:

• Here Lies Jeremy Troy - January 11th - March 18th, 2007
• Nunsense A-men! - March 22nd - April 29th, 2007
• What the Rabbi Saw - May 3rd - July 1st, 2007
• Tom, Dick & Harry - July 5th - September 2nd, 2007
• Will You Still Love Me in the Morning? - September 6th - November 4th, 2007
• Two Into One - November 8th - December 31st, 2007

(07/02/06) imagei.net is running a special theatrical headshot photograph offer. For a limited time, just mention that you want the PeoriaTheatre.com special, and you can receive a 45 minute, 2-outfit headshot session with Peoria's Headshot Specialist, capable of shooting in the New York, LA, or Chicago styles. For more information, see the imagei.net - PeoriaTheatre.com headshot special page.

(05/17/06) Update! Normal Parks & Recreation Summer Theatre (formerly Maxwell Park) has just announced a change to their 2006 summer show. They will now be performing Guys & Dolls. Performance dates remain July 14th - 16th, 21st - 23rd, 28th - 30th.

The Central Illinois Theatre Calendar has been updated with this new information.

(05/08/06) Here are several upcoming shows in the Bloomington-Normal area about which I've just found out.

Normal Parks & Recreation Summer Theatre (formerly Maxwell Park) recently announced its 2006 summer show:

• Guys & Dolls - July 14th - 16th, 21st - 23rd, 28th - 30th

Bloomington's Miller Park Summer Theatre has also announced its two summer shows for 2006:

• Oliver! - June 16th - 18th, 23rd - 25th, 30th - July 2nd
• Our Town - July 20th - 23rd, 27th - 30th

Finally, Illinois State University has announced the three shows it will be performing in repertory from June 28th - August 13th at this summer's Illinois Shakespeare Festival:

• A Comedy of Errors
• Julius Caesar
• Pericles

These shows have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(04/12/06) I apologize for the updates being a little slow recently. I just got a new computer, and have been setting it up to make updating much easier. Hopefully, I'll be able to make more frequent updates now with greater ease. This website is now powered with Macromedia Dreamweaver 8, running on an Alienware Area-51 dual processor PC!

I'm also redoing the way I organize the site behind the scenes. Hopefully you won't notice anything, but if you do spot any broken links or other funkiness, please let me know!

Coming soon: an updated user interface, with perhaps some more visually pleasing navigation!

Anyway, I also finally posted some pictures of Corn Stock Lab's production of The Underpants, and Nyk Sutter emailed me the Peoria Players' cast of Cats.

(03/20/06) Community Players Theatre in Bloomington is still in need of at least ten men (age 16 or older) for parts in the upcoming musical, Oklahoma! Performances run May 5th - 7th, 11th - 14th, and 18th - 21th, 2006. For more information, visit them online at communityplayers.org, and show up for rehearsal at 6:30 PM at Community Players Theatre, 201 Robinhood Lane in Bloomingtion.

(02/07/06) I recently discovered that I inadvertantly had left Illinois Wesleyan University's current theatre season off of my Central Illinois Theatre Calendar. I have corrected the omission, and for your information, here are the remaining shows for this school year:

• A Man of No Importance - February 7th - 12th, 2006
• Skin of Our Teeth - March 7th - 12th, 2006
• Finding the Sun - March 30th - April 1st, 2006
• Fit to Be Tried and Fun - May 18th - 20th, 2006

(01/31/06) Eastlight Theatre recently announced their audition dates for their 2006 season:

• I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change - February 10th - 11th, 2006
• Miss Saigon - April 21st - 22nd, 2006
• The Wiz - May 26th - 27th, 2006

Additionally, Illinois Central College have announced open auditions for their upcoming production of All the Great Books (abridged) on February 27th from 6:00 - 9:00 pm.

These auditions have been added to the Audition Callboard.

(01/23/06) David Tomlianovich, Director of Commercial Production for WMBD TV and WYZZ TV is looking for local acting talent of all ages. Those interested are invited to submit their name, address, and phone number along with pictures, resumes, and/or videotape samples of work to:

David Tomlianovich
Director of Commercial Production
WMBD TV/WYZZ TV
3131 North University
Peoria, Illinois 61604

(01/23/06) The Little Theatre On The Square in Sullivan, Illinois will hold local Equity and non-Equity general auditions from 6:00 to 10:00 pm on Tuesday, February 28th at The Little Theatre On The Square in Sullivan. Little Theatre's 2006 Summer Season is Thoroughly Modern Millie, Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?, Godspell, Anything Goes, and The Full Monty. Roles are available for adult performers (age 16 and older) who are accomplished actor/singer/dancers. Chorus members for Thoroughly Modern Millie and Anything Goes are required to have strong tap skills. All roles are open.

Those wishing to audition should contact the Business Office at 217-728-2065 to schedule an appointment. Auditionees should prepare 16 bars of a Broadway song (with sheet music in the correct key for the accompanist), a 30-second contemporary monologue, and provide a non-returnable photo and resume. Dance and musical callbacks will be held that evening, and participants asked to attend dance callbacks must have tap and jazz shoes.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact The Little Theatre On The Square at 217-728-2065 from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

(01/09/06) Peoria Players Theatre is happy to announce the cast list for its March 2006 show, Rumors. Director Jim Stout would like to thank everyone who took the time to audition. He says casting was extremely difficult. The first read-through is currently TBA.

(01/06/06) The Waterhouse announces a one-night-only Theatre Open Mic on January 7th from 8:00 pm - midnight. Bring your favorite showtunes, and perform to an appreciative house!

Doors open at 7:00 pm. Cover charge of $2/person (which comes with a drink voucher good for $2 off your first drink (for those over 21) or soda all night for everyone else. All ages welcome!

(11/08/05) Peoria Players Theatre is proud to announce their 2006-2007 season:

• Grease (Youth Theatre) - August 3rd - 6th, 2006
• Thoroughly Modern Millie - September 8th - 10th, 14th - 17th, 2006
• Wait Until Dark - October 6th - 8th, 12th - 14th, 2006
• Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up? - November 10th - 12th, 16th - 19th, 2006
• Pippin - February 2nd - 4th, 8th - 11th, 2007
• The Beverly Hillbillies - March 9th - 11th, 15th - 17th, 2007
• The Full Monty - May 4th - 6th, 10th - 13th, 2007

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(10/17/05) Corn Stock Lab Theatre is proud to announce the casting for the upcoming comedy, Steve Martin's The Underpants. The full cast list can be viewed here.

Director Ed Peck asked me to post this note: "Thank you to everyone who auditioned. We had a lot of great readings and I wish there were more roles available for all of you. I applaud your performances and I hope to work with you in the future."

The first readthrough will be Wednesday, October 19th at 7:00 pm in the basement of the Lab Theatre. The rehearsal schedule will be worked out at that time.

(10/09/05) The Peoria Civic Center has announced their Broadway Theatre Series for 2005-2006:

• Thoroughly Modern Millie - October 26th - 27th, 2005
• Lord of the Dance - January 11th, 2006
• 42nd Street - March 1st - 2nd, 2006
• Hairspray - April 12th - 16th, 2006

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(09/08/05) Morton Community Players, in conjunction with Artistic Community Theatre, is proud to announce its upcoming production of Cheaper By the Dozen. Performances will be at the Bertha Frank Performing Arts Center in Morton November 11th - 13th and 18th - 19th. Auditions will be held at the Morton Park District Recreation Center September 22nd - 23rd at 6:30 pm.

These dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar and the Audition Callboard.

(08/31/05) Corn Stock Theatre has announced audition dates for upcoming shows in their winter lab season:

• The Underpants - October 15th - 16th, 2005
• Crimes of the Heart - December 10th - 11th, 2005

Also, the annual Teen Mystery Dinner Theatre will be holding this year's auditions September 10th and 11th.

These dates have been added to the Audition Callboard.

(08/05/05) Peoria Cabaret Theatre, for one weekend only, will be presenting Comedy 2-night, starring Mike Dentino and Marshall Lipkin. Performances will be September 16th and 17th at 7:30 pm and September 18th at 2:30 pm. All performances will be held at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Tickets are $15.00 - $22.50, and can be reserved by calling 309-494-9100.

(08/04/05) Illinois State University recently announced their theatre season for the upcoming 2005-2006 school year:

• All My Sons - October 1st - 2nd, 4th - 8th, 2005
• Anna in the Tropics - October 5th - 9th, 2005
• Servant of Two Masters - October 26th - 30th, 2005
• The Persecution and Assassination of Jean-Paul Marat as Performed by the Inmates of the Asylum of Charenton Under the Direction of the Marquis de Sade - November 4th - 6th, 8th - 12th, 2005
• Arcadia - December 2nd - 4th, 6th - 10th, 2005
• The Normal Heart - Feburary 24th - 26th, 28th, March 1st - 4th, 2006
• Crimes of the Heart - March 2nd - 5th, 2006
• Necessary Targets - March 30th - 31st, April 1st - 2nd, 2006
• Die Fledermaus - April 7th - 9th, 12th - 15th, 2006
• As You Like It - April 28th - 30th, May 2nd - 6th, 2006

These dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(07/24/05) Corn Stock Lab Theatre is pleased to announce the casting for its upcoming production of Urinetown. You can view the full cast list here. The first company meeting and readthrough will be held on Monday, August 1st at 7:00 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center.

(07/12/05) Corn Stock Theatre recently announced the 2006 season for its Summer Tent facility:

• Chicago - June 2nd - 10th, 2006
• Brighton Beach Memoirs - June 23rd - July 1st, 2006
• Crossing Delancey - August 4th - 12th, 2006
• State Fair - August 25th - September 2nd, 2006

They will also be presenting one youth show during their 2006 season:

• Godspell - July 14th - 22nd, 2006

These dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(07/12/05) Community Players Theatre will be putting on their 2005 Gala fundraiser production, An Evening to Die For, featuring the murder mystery La Cachette, on August 12th at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Bloomington.

This year's gala will include the performance, dinner, dessert and a silent auction. A diamond necklace will be raffled off, and other items will be available for auction. The fun-filled evening will conclude with dancing.

La Cachette is a Film Noir-style murder mystery, and features Lt. Eddie Cannon, a detective, trying to crack the case of a murdered Soprano. Tickets are $40.00, and can be reserved at the Community Players Box Office at 309-663-2121.

(06/28/05) Corn Stock Theatre has announced the casting for its upcoming production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. You can view the full cast list here.

(06/20/05) Corn Stock Theatre recently announced the 2005-2006 season for its Winter Lab facility:

• Urinetown - September 30th - October 2nd, 6th - 8th, 2005
• The Crucible - October 28th - 30th, November 3rd - 5th, 2005
• The Underpants - December 2nd - 4th, 8th - 10th, 2005
• Crimes of the Heart - February 10th - 12th, 16th - 18th, 2006
• Uncoupling - March 3rd - 5th, 9th - 11th, 2006

These dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(06/20/05) Opera Illinois will be holding principal artist and comprimario (secondary) artist auditions by appointment in Peoria, July 7th in the Fine Arts Lecture/Recital Hall of Illinois Central College. All roles are open. The 2005-2006 season will consist of:

• H.M.S. Pinafore - October 21st - 23rd, 2005
• Amahl & the Night Visitors - December 2nd and 4th, 2005
• Suor Angelica/Gianni Schicchi (in Italian) - February 17th and 19th, 2006
• Cosi fan tutte (in English) - April 21st and 23rd, 2006

Of special interest are boys between 8 and 14 years old for the role of Amahl. If you are a singer interested in working with Opera Illinois, please call 309-673-7253 for an appointment. Please have at least 2 contrasting songs or arias prepared. An accompanist will be provided.

These dates have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar and the Audition Callboard.

(06/09/05) Sand Prairie is a western feature film that will be shot in Central Illinois June 18th to July 9th. This will be done at a small western town being built along the Mackinaw River near Hopedale, Illinois.

It will be made using all volunteers. There will be no pay for any position, only credits and experience, UNLESS it is sold to the distributors for Theaters, Video, or TV. If it sells, whatever monies gained will be shared by cast and crew according to each person's contribution to making the film. Any money donated to the project will be used for feeding the cast and crew and for supplies. Sponsors and Contributors will be included in the credits.

Our plan is to use several local actors. We are also looking for the following crew people:

• Unit Production Manager
• Art Director / Set Director
• Set Design team
• Production Designer
• Special Effects Supervisor
• Key Grip
• Set Decorator
• Continuity Person

More information about Sand Prairie can be found on the Producer/Director's web page: http://www.jimconover.com.

(06/08/05) The Waterhouse (home of the Prairie Cabaret Theatre) will be celebrating their anniversary this year on Saturday, June 11, 2005 from 6:00 pm - Midnight, and you are invited! They will have hors d'oeuvres, games, and music (and possibly a theatre open mic night!) as well as having the bar open all night! So whether you can stay for a few minutes or a few hours, please stop by!

(05/17/05) Corn Stock Theatre is proud to officially announce the cast list for their production of Tommy. You can view it here! There are several more roles not explicitly listed, which will be filled by company members.

If (for whatever reason) you cannot be a part of the show, please call Steve Haines as soon as possible at 243-5873. The first company meeting will be held at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (the Lab theatre) on June 5th at 3:00 pm.

(04/04/05) The Waterhouse will be hosting an evening of cabaret performances on Saturday, April 9th, 2005. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and performances begin with International touring veteran and AMDA graduate Joshua Kensinger at 7:00 pm, followed by Broadway actress and Woodruff high school grad Susan Somerville at 8:15 pm, and finishing with Branson performer Daniel Coe Olsson at 9:30 pm. Admission is $6 for one or all of the evening's performances.

(04/04/05) Bradley University is offering a free theatre workshop day for high school students on Saturday, April 16th from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. There will be all kinds of activities in auditioning, acting, and technical theatre. If you are interested in attending, call Lois Espisito at 677-2660 to sign up.

(04/04/05) Community Children's Theatre in Peoria has announced audition dates for their upcoming performance of The Wizard of Oz:

• May 13th, 2005 at 6:00 pm
• May 14th, 2005 at 10:00 am

All auditions will be held at the St. Thomas facility behind the school, at the corner of Lake and Monroe in Peoria Heights. All participants must be 8 years old by May 14th and must not turn 19 by July 10th. This show will be presented at Peoria Players Theatre.

These dates have been added to the audition callboard.

(03/22/05) Community Players Theatre in Bloomington has announced their upcoming 2005-2006 season:

• The Wizard of Oz - July 8th - 10th, 14th - 17th, 21st - 24th, 2005
• Cheaper By the Dozen - September 9th - 11th, 15th - 18th, 22nd - 24th, 2005
• Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street - November 4th - 6th, 10th - 13th, 17th - 20th, 2005
• Deadwood Dick, or a Game of Gold - January 13th - 15th, 19th - 22nd, 26th - 28th, 2006
• The Desperate Hours - March 10th - 12th, 16th - 19th, 23th - 25th, 2006
• Oklahoma! - May 5th - 7th, 11th - 14th, 18th - 21st, 2006

They've also announced audition dates:

• The Wizard of Oz - May 16th - 18th, 2005
• Cheaper By the Dozen - July 25th - 26th, 2005
• Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street - September 12th - 14th, 2005
• Deadwood Dick, or a Game of Gold - November 14th - 15th, 2005
• The Desperate Hours - January 23th - 24th, 2006
• Oklahoma! - March 13th - 15th, 2006

These dates have been added to the audition callboard and Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(03/07/05) Eastlight Theatre receives a significant portion of its operating budget from Illinois Arts Grants. According to the Illinois Arts Council, this funding may be in jeopardy:

Governor Proposes $1.7 Million Cut to Arts Funding

The Illinois Arts Alliance and arts advocates statewide are deeply concerned by the Governor’s recently proposed $1.7 million reduction in funding to the Illinois Arts Council.

A $1.7 million cut to the Arts Council’s already modest $19.6 million budget will not solve the state’s budget woes, but will undoubtedly have a negative impact on Arts Council grant recipients. The proposed 8.7% cut will likely result in a reduction in the level of funding awarded to worthy applicants in districts throughout the state.

We must act now in order to prevent cuts to arts funding! Senate and House Appropriation Committees that recommend the funding level for the Illinois Arts Council are meeting on March 9, 2005. It is extremely important that the leaders of the Appropriation Committees, the Governor and your own legislators hear from you NOW!

We have made it very easy for you to communicate with all targeted law makers. Through the use of our e-advocacy system, you can write ONE letter and it will be sent in minutes to everyone who needs to hear from you. Please take a moment and write a letter - it will make a difference. Be sure to customize your letter by including specific information about your organization.

The more letters sent, the stronger the impact - so please forward this alert on to your co-workers, friends and family!

Here is the website: http://capwiz.com/artsusa/il/mail/oneclick_compose/?alertid=7140146

(03/07/05) The World Clown Association and the Class Clown Alley of Central Illinois is looking for a volunteer dance instructor for their upcoming convention. During the opening night celebration of the convention, they will be throwing a Vaudeville-themed party on the Spirit of Peoria Riverboat, with people attending in thier best Vaudevillian atire. They need a dance instructor to give a quick lesson on the Charleston (or dances from this era.)

• Date: April 5, 2005
• Time: 7:00pm to 9:00pm
• Location: Spirit of Peoria.

If you are interested, contact Mary Keltner.

(03/02/05) The Waterhouse, home of the Prairie Cabaret Theatre is currently seeking servers (preferring people involved in theatre) for their upcoming dinner theatre productions of Singing The Standards (March 10th - 12th and 17th - 19th) and And All That Jazz: The New Kander and Ebb Revue (May 5th - 7th and 12th - 14th). All servers must be at least 19 years of age. The job includes setting up table arrangements for each show, selling drinks while customers are eating dinner and at intermission, and cleaning tables. Pay is $10 plus tips. Time commitment is 4 hours per show (6:00 pm - 10:00 pm for the evening shows and 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm for the Saturday afternoons). Orientation will be at the Waterhouse, 619 Water Street in downtown Peoria on Monday, March 7th at 6:00 pm with head bartendar/server Jodee Norbutas. If you are interested in being considered to serve at the Waterhouse, please email Jodee or call 309-868-9580. For more information, visit The Waterhouse's website.

(02/25/05) Former Central Illinois Theatre participant Scott Meidroth will be portraying Freddy Eynsford-Hill in My Fair Lady with the O'Fallon Repertory Theatre in O'Fallon, MO, just outside of St. Louis. Performances will be held February 25th - 27th and March 4th - 6th. For additional information call 636-379-5605 or 636-379-5575.

(02/08/05) The Waterhouse Speakeasy (home of the Theatre Open Mic) will host the second installment of "Broadway Sing-a-long" this coming Friday (February 11th). The show will be the mega-hit Wicked by Stephen Schwartz! Doors will open at 10:00 pm, and at that time you can sign up for the song or songs that you would like to solo. They will determine who gets the microphone on each song by drawing numbers out of a hat. Don't fret if you are not picked - everyone will be encouraged to sing-a-long on songs they know from the audience! The sing-a-long will begin around 10:30, and afterwards, the regular Theatre Open Mic will run until 2:00 am! Admission is FREE, and while full bar service is offered, all ages are allowed. The Waterhouse Speakeasy is located at 619 Water Street in downtown Peoria, above Rhodell's Brewery (next to Kelleher's). Just look for the place with the GREEN light in the window!

The Waterhouse hosts one sing-a-long each month during the Friday night Open Mic. Shows under consideration are Grease, Rent, Ragtime, Les Mis, Miss Saigon, Hairspray, Aida, and Titanic.

(02/03/05) Eastlight Theatre has announced audition dates for its 2005 season:

• My Way - February 26th (1:00 pm)
• Cats - March 18th (6:30 pm) and 19th (1:00 pm)
• Beauty and the Beast - April 1st (7:00 pm) and 2nd (1:00 pm)
• Les Misérables (School Edition) - May 4th - 6th (6:00 pm) and 7th (10:00 am and 1:00 pm)
  (Auditions for Les Misérables are by appointment only)

These audition dates have been added to the audition callboard.

(02/03/05) Peoria Players Theatre has announced its 2005-2006 season:

• Anything Goes (Youth Theatre Production) - August 3rd - 7th, 2005
• Brigadoon - September 9th - 11th, 15th - 17th, 2005
• Cemetery Club - October 7th - 9th, 13th - 15th, 2005
• Pump Boys and Dinettes - November 11th - 13th, 17th - 19th, 2005
• Aida - February 3rd - 5th, 9th - 11th, 2006
• Rumors - March 10th - 12th, 16th - 18th, 2006
• Cats - May 5th - 7th, 11th - 14th, 18th - 20th, 2006

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

On a personal note: many of you know that I was on the play selection committee for this season. Unfortunately, the musicals recommended by my committee were rejected by the PPT board, who then selected this season. If you are unhappy with the shows selected, please contact your representatives on PPT's Board of Directors, not the members of the play selection committee.

(02/03/05) The Rosenman Casting Agency in Los Angeles will be shooting a national Aquafina commercial in New York on February 17th and 18th and are looking for local actors for the shoot. Peoria Players Theatre will be holding an audition taping at their theatre Saturday, February 5th from 1:00 - 3:00 pm.

All participants selected for the commercial shoot will be flown to New York City, all expenses paid, will be paid in accordance with Screen Actor Guild (SAG) guidelines for the shoot itself, and will receive residuals when the commercial airs. You do NOT have to be a member of SAG to participate.

(01/20/05) The Waterhouse Speakeasy (home of the Theatre Open Mic) will host the first installment of "Broadway Sing-a-long" on a special day - Saturday, January 22, 2005 at 8:00 pm. The show will be the smash Kander and Ebb hit - Chicago! Doors will open at 7:00 pm, and at that time you can sign up for the song or songs that you would like to solo. They will determine who gets the microphone on each song by drawing numbers out of a hat. Don't fret if you are not picked - everyone will be encouraged to sing-a-long on songs they know from the audience! You can even dance-a-long if you would like! After the sing-through, they will hold a special evening of Theatre Open Mic until 2:00 am! Admission is FREE and while full bar service is offered, all ages are allowed. The Waterhouse Speakeasy is located at 619 Water Street in downtown Peoria, above Rhodell's Brewery (next to Kelleher's). Just look for the place with the red light in the window.

Starting in February, they will hold one sing-a-long each month at the Friday night Open Mic. Shows under consideration are Wicked, Rent, Ragtime, Les Mis, Miss Saigon, Hairspray, Aida, and Titanic.

(01/06/05) The Waterhouse (home of the Prairie Cabaret Theatre) is seeking self-contained acts (musical, comedy, etc.) for performances in 2005 in both the main stage and speakeasy spaces. Pay involved based upon attendance. The Waterhouse has hosted solo cabarets, comedy troupes, singing groups, as well as regional and international acts. Contact Andrew Driscoll at thewaterhouse@aol.com or 309-494-9100.

(12/20/04) Corn Stock Lab Theatre is pleased to announce the cast list for Polish Joke:

• Jasiu - Tim Bearden
• Wojtek/Ladislaw/Priest/Policeman/Mr. O'Flanagan - Jerry A White
• Roman/Kosciuszko - Harold Breitenbach
• Sanitation Worker/Leon/Doctor - Clark Rians
• Rachel/Miss MacFlanagan/Florist/Stewardess/Children's Voices - Victoria Rians-Kapanjie
• Helen/Portia/Mrs. Flanagan/Nurse/Children's Voices - Lana Warner
• Magda/Enid/Olga/Zosia - Regina Landor

(12/03/04) The results from my most recent poll are in! Here are all the songs people suggested as their favorites, based on lyrics:

It appears people have many different tastes! The most popular songs (with only two votes each!) was "There's a Fine, Fine Line" from Avenue Q and "Why?" from tick, tick...BOOM!

The winner of the contest is Grahm Eberhardt! Since Grahm resides in Northwestern Illinois, I will probably substitute some tickets to see some theatre in the Moline instead of down here in Peoria. Congratulations, Grahm!

(11/22/04) For the Winter Wonderettes performances Tuesday, November 23th and Wednesday, November 24th (both starting at 7:30) the Prairie Cabaret Theatre is offering a one time only Arts Organization special price of only $10! The regular price for that show is $27, but as an arts organization or part of their email group you get it for only $10!!! Give Kristie a call in the box office (309-494-9100) as soon as possible to make sure you can take advantage of this special offer and tell her you are part of an Arts Group. This offer will also extend to friends and family, so if you would like to bring people along with you, make sure they tell Kristie, "Arts Organization!"

(11/17/04) WIN A PRIZE JUST FOR SHARING YOUR OPINION!

It's been quite a while since our last Peoria Limelight poll, so here's another question for my faithful readers: What is your all-time favorite musical theatre song? For now, consider songs with meaningful lyrics or that personally resonate with you. We will have another poll in the near future that deals with the best music, songs that make you dance when you hear them, or overall listenability.

Send your top five song choices (and what shows they are from) to me at bobmanasco@peoriatheatre.com.

I will be drawing one name at random from the entries and giving away a pair of tickets to see Peoria Players' upcoming production of Once Upon a Mattress, or another valuable theatrical-related prize!

Submission deadline is midnight November 28th. I will announce the results of the poll and the grand prize winner during the week of November 29th.

Full-time employees of the Peoria Limelight and their immediate families are not eligible for the grand prize. For full contest details, contact the administrator of the Peoria Limelight. Another theatrical-related prize may be substituted for the grand prize, based on availability and the whim of the prize-provider. Only one entry per person; duplicate entries will be discarded. Void where prohibited.

(11/17/04) Community Children's Theatre announces upcoming performances of The King and I. The play features 58 children from the Peoria area, ranging in age from 8 - 18. Performance dates are December 9th - 12th. These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(11/12/04) Auditions have been announced for two upcoming ICC shows.

5 Women Wearing the Same Dress will hold auditions at 4:00 pm (for women) and 6:00 (for men) on November 22nd, and The Compleat Works of Wllm Shkspr (Abridged) will hold auditions at 7:00 pm, also on November 22nd. All auditions are held at the Performing Arts Center on the ICC East Peoria campus.

These auditions have been added to the Audition Callboard.

(11/03/04) Peoria Players Theatre is proud to announce the cast for their upcoming production of Once Upon a Mattress. The cast list may be viewed here.

The first company meeting will be held on Monday, November 22nd at 7:00 pm (place TBA - Lisa will contact you with more details).

(11/03/04) The Tim Conway and Harvey Korman "Together Again" performances at the Peoria Civic Center on Friday November 5th have been temporarily postponed due to an illness to Harvey Korman.

As a result of a sudden minor illness that is not life threatening, the 78 year old Mr. Korman has been advised by his physician to rest at home for several days, and not to travel or perform.

Patrons are asked to retain their tickets, as they will be valid for the rescheduled concert. The new date should be announced in the next week. Refunds are available at the point where tickets were purchased.

The shows will be rescheduled by the promoter when Mr. Korman is feeling well and arrangements for the tour can be made.

(10/28/04) The Waterhouse has announced a change to its schedule for this Friday's Open Mic Night. Doors will open at 9:00 pm, and (in honor of Halloween) they will have a singthrough of the Wicked songbook starting at 10:00 pm.

Also, don't forget that this Friday's theme is Costume Party! Wear your Halloween costume, or better yet, dress up as your favorite musical theatre character!

(10/26/04) Prairie Cabaret Theatre is seeking 2 actresses ages 25-35 for their upcoming production of Winter Wonderettes. Rehearsals begin November 4th with performances November 17th - December 18th. Seeking strong singers with the ability to sing in parts. (Dancing and sight reading skills a plus, especially seeking a mezzo alto and soprano) Total commitment is 6.5 weeks and pay is $1,950 ($250/week). Audition appointments available on Tuesday, October 26th until 3:00 pm and Wednesday, October 27th all day. Please call Andrew at 309.494.9100 with additional questions.

(10/26/04) Peoria Park District's Teen Mystery Dinner Theater will put on The Moss Trap mystery on November 5th and 6th at Ravina on the Lake at 6:00 pm. Dinner and the show are included for $17.50 per ticket, which must be purchased at Peoria Park District. Members of the cast are well known high school students from the surrounding area. Cast includes: Erin Wood, Micah Spayer, Quinn Orear, Jimmy Ulrich, Lauren Fleming, Wes Urish, Rey Agama, Kerry Hauser, Ashley Guy, Colleen Dermody, Blair Kelly, Ryan Wood, Alex Palkovic, Lauren Myers, Elle Voorhees, Landon Zumwalt, Anne Clark, Alison Schlichter, Lindsay Sparrow, Philip Reardon. This show is directed by Mary Ellen Ulrich. It is a fun show about a Resort with a very questionable past being sold, and who is showing up to buy it and why. Great fun, good meal $17.50!

(10/14/04) On my links page, I have added a section for local actors' homepages. If you know of any other local performers who have acting-specific websites (not just personal pages), let me know!

(10/04/04) Looking for a great Halloween costume? Two local theatres will be holding costume sales later this month. Peoria Players annual costume sale will be held on October 23rd from 8:00 am - noon. Also, the Bradley University Theatre Department will be holding their costume sale on October 25th - 26th from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm at the Hartmann Center.

(10/01/04) Prairie Cabaret Theatre recently made the following exciting two announcements:

Thanks for the Memories, the World Premiere of a one man show starring Two-Time Tony nominee Joel Blum as Bob Hope will be running October 5th - 16th. Show times are Tuesday-Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. Ticket prices: Adults - $32, Seniors/Students/Military - $30. ALSO - Student Rush Half price tickets available 30 minutes before performances.

Also, the Waterhouse Late Night Cabaret Series continues Saturday October 2nd at 10:00 pm. Upcoming performers include Bob Manasco (October 2nd), Andrew Driscoll (October 9th), Eric Keysor (October 16th), and Katie Smithers (October 23rd).

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(09/22/04) Opera Illinois will be holding auditions for its upcoming productions of La Traviata and Tosca on October 5th at the Opera Center, 416 Hamilton in Peoria. Call 309-673-7253 for an appointment.

This audition date has been added to the Audition Callboard.

(09/17/04) I just received some new photos from the recent Eastlight productions of Metropolis and Copacabana, so have updated my photo archives with the better pictures. Much thanks to Marc Lester at f8 studio for these wonderful shots. Enjoy!

(09/16/04) Update: Eastlight has now also announced official performance dates!

Eastlight Theatre has just announced the selected shows for their upcoming 2005 season:

• My Way - April 15th - 17th, 20th - 23rd
• Cats - June 17th - 19th, 22nd - 25th
• Beauty & the Beast - August 5th - 7th, 10th - 13th
• Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - December 2nd - 4th, 7th - 11th


• Les Misérables (School Edition) - September 9th - 11th, 15th - 17th

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(09/14/04) Peoria Players Theatre has announced the cast for its upcoming comedy, Meshuggah-Nuns. The cast list may be viewed here.

(09/13/04) Bradley University's theatre program has recently announced their upcoming 2004-2005 25th anniversary season.

• You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown - September 23 - October 3, 2004
• The Laramie Project - November 11 - 21, 2004
• A Servant of Two Masters - February 24 - March 6, 2005
• Translations - April 14 - April 24, 2005

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(09/12/04) Corn Stock Lab Theatre has announced the cast for its upcoming musical, Hair. The cast list may be viewed here. The first rehearsal will be full cast on Thursday, Sept. 16 at the Cornstock Lab building at 6:30 pm.

Note from the director: "I wanted to thank the very talented individuals that came out to audition for the show and it was a very tough decision for our casting board to make. All cast members are part of the TRIBE and will be involved in the primary numbers in addition to solos and speaking parts which will be assigned throughout rehearsals."

(09/07/04) Morton Area Players and Artistic Community Theatre recently announced their upcoming production of The Convertible Girl. Auditions will be held September 20th - 21st. Performance dates are November 12th - 14th and 19th - 20th.

Eureka College's 2004-2005 season is as follows:

• American Primitive - September 9th - 11th
• Our Town - October 13th - 17th
• I Was in the Shower, I Was on My Way to Work - October 28th - 30th
• The Boys Next Door - November 18th - 20th
• Towards Zero - February 23rd - 27th
• Eleemosynary - March 16th - 18th
• Baby With the Bathwater - April 7th - 9th
• Eureka Version 150 - April 19th - 23rd

Also, Eastlight Theatre's Penguin Project production of Annie will be coming up this weekend, September 11th and 12th.

These performances and auditions dates have been added to the Audition Callboard and the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(09/02/04) The Caterpillar Employees' Mixed Chorus will be putting on their fall musical, The Sound of Music, October 8th - 10th at the Peoria Civic Center. Tickets go on sale Monday, September 13th at the Civic Center Box Office and through all Ticketmaster outlets.

This performance has been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(08/30/04) Illinois Central College has just announced its 2004-2005 season:

• The Odd Couple - October 1st - 3rd, 8th - 10th, 2004
• All in the Timing - November 12th - 14th, 16th - 21st, 2004
• The Compleat Works of Wllm Shkspr (abridged) - February 25th - 27th, March 4th - 6th, 2005
• 5 Women Wearing the Same Dress - April 15th - 17th, 19th - 24th, 2005

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(08/27/04) The Peoria Civic Center has just announced the 40th anniversary season for Peoria Ballet.

• Dracula - October 30th, 2004
• The Nutcracker - December 11th - 12th, 2004
• 40th Anniversary Gala - April 23rd, 2005

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(08/26/04) The Waterhouse is hosting a series of solo cabaret nights, featuring local-area talent on Saturdays. The first cabaret (August 28th) will feature Sally Lawrence. The second (October 2nd) will feature Bob Manasco. Shows start at 10:30 and run approximately an hour. Tickets are $5, and are available at the door.

(08/23/04) Eastlight Theatre has announced upcoming auditions for its 14th anniversary production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. These will be held at the Fondulac Park District Building in East Peoria on October 15th at 7:00 pm and October 16th at 1:00 pm. These audition dates have been added to the Audition Callboard.

(08/21/04) Conklin's Barn II Dinner Theatre recently announced its 2005 season:

• Forever Plaid - January 13th - February 20th, 2005
• Don't Dress For Dinner - February 24th - April 17th, 2005
• Squabbles - April 21st - June 12th, 2005
• The Taffetas - June 16th - July 17th, 2005
• Love, Sex, and the IRS - July 21st - September 11th, 2005
• Anybody For Murder? - September 15th - October 30th, 2005
• Out of Order - November 3rd - December 31st, 2005

Corn Stock Lab Theatre has also announced the return of its biennial show, A Christmas Story. This year's performances will be held December 3rd - 5th and 10th - 11th.

These performances have been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

Additionally, Corn Stock Lab Theatre recently announced audition dates for its upcoming production of Hair. Auditions will be held September 10th at 7:00 pm and September 12th at 1:00 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center. This audition has been added to the Audition Callboard.

(08/17/04) Peoria Players Theatre's production of Driving Miss Daisy has been cast. The cast list is as follows:

• Daisy - Bonnie White
• Hoke - Sammy Hardimon
• Boolie - Bruce Colligan

This show will perform October 8th - 10th and 14th - 16th.

(08/17/04) V Alternative Theatre is holding auditions for their upcoming production of Scatterbrain, written and directed by Jason A. Vales, Storyteller. This is new form of theatre, combining elements of digital media with live performance.

Need: 5 males & 2 females
Where: The Coffeehouse (the basement) 114 E Buford, Normal, IL
When: August 23rd & 24th (Monday & Tuesday) at 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
What to bring: Headshot & resume
Also seeking a Stage Manager and Light Technician.

Performances:
Where: The Coffeehouse (the basement) 114 E Buford, Normal, IL
When: Friday, September 24th at 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Saturday, September 25th at 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Friday, October 1st at 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Saturday, October 2nd at 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Please contact Jason, at 773-960-9790 or jasonv@monarchads.com for any questions or comments.

These auditions and performance have been added to the Audition Callboard and the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(08/12/04) The Peoria Park district announces auditions for its upcoming Teen Mystery Dinner Theatre. Auditions are open to any high school student, and will be held on September 9th (4:30 pm - 6:00 pm) and September 12th (12:00 pm - 2:00 pm) at the Owens Center. Performances will be November 5th and 6th and December 3rd at Ravina on the Lake. Rehearsals are on Thursdays 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm and Sundays 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm.

These auditions and performances have been added to the Audition Callboard and the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

(08/11/04) I've added a couple of new photo archive pages for recent shows from earlier this summer. You can now view pictures from Corn Stock Theatre's Proof and Eastlight Theatre's A Chorus Line.

(08/10/04) I was just made aware of a Central Illinois Theatre that I didn't even know existed! August 12th - 14th, Chillicothe Summer Theatre will be producing a production of Oklahoma! Show times are 7:00 on August 12th and 7:30 pm on August 13th and 14th. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.

This production has been added to the Central Illinois Theatre Calendar.

Special thanks to Ashley Rufus for letting me know about this production. If you know of any others I don't have listed, please let me know!

(08/06/04) The Metropolis page has been updated with pictures from a recent dress rehearsal. There will be better pictures when I get the official show shots, but for now, enjoy!