Theatrikos Theatre Co. November Newsletter ~ Elf the Musical, Watership Down and more events

–Justin Phillips, Cast-member, Flagstaff

Downtown Films recently presented All of Us, five award-winning short documentaries by local Flagstaff filmmakerJohn Schaffer. The films offer a heart-felt look at the role of disabilities in the lives of individuals and communities. “I make my films because I want people to understand disability in the way that many people with disabilities think about themselves. They don’t want pity and charity, they want empathy, opportunity and appreciation. Societal attitudes do a lot to disabled people and on one hand that’s disappointing and discouraging but on the other hand, as Elijah, the son of Matthew, a man with a significant disability featured in two of my films states, ‘that means we change that.’ We can change the way people think about disabilities,” said Schaffer.

Downtown Films at Theatrikos shows short and feature-length films on our recently upgraded projection equipment in an intimate venue.  On select Monday nights each month, we feature local films made by local filmmakers on local topics; with an opportunity to engage with the filmmaker.  On select Wednesday nights, the Sedona International Film Festival brings us feature films from their collection.  “We are pleased to collaborate with SIFF, independent filmmakers, and our generous sponsors to offer these community events,” said Chris Gunn, Downtown Films Committee Chairman.

Theatrikos recently cast Baskerville, our first 2025 season main-stage play. The performers are Daniel Wilson as Sherlock Holmes, Nicole Thurston as Dr. Watson with Deborah Swift, Casey Russell, John Winikka, and Melanie Santana-Propper.

The play, written by Ken Ludwig, is a comedic adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1902 novel The Hound of the Baskervilles, and features over forty characters played by six actors.

Ken Ludwig, a Theatrikos favorite, also wrote Lend Me a Tenor and The Gods of Comedy, from our 2023 and 2024 seasons, respectively.

Baskerville runs from January 17 – February 2.

When their birthplace is destroyed, brothers Hazel and Fiver lead a misfit band of survivors on a quest for a new home.

Emmi Boatner, Stage Manager for Watership Down said, “It’s a show about team building, understanding each other and community. I’m thrilled to be working with these kids that I love so much.” Cat Shaffer, age 13, who plays Hazel added, “This is a play like no other that Theatrikids has done. I think the play is symbolic – it’s about hope and perseverance.”

Watership Down includes a cast of over 30 kids and runs November 1 – 10.

We’re truly grateful for the volunteers at Theatrikos. From the welcoming ushers to the visionary directors to the passionate actors, these dedicated people are the lifeblood of our theatre. Their tireless efforts behind the scenes and on stage create the magical experiences, and embody the true spirit of theatre.

In appreciation for their hard work, we’re hosting Thankful Chili Dinner.

November 20, 530-630.

RSVP at 928-774-1662.

TheatriKids strives to foster a lifelong love of the performing arts. We teach theater skills—including acting, voice, dialects, character development, and basic stagecraft. Our young participants gain increased self-esteem and poise. This program is open to all area youth, ages 10-16, and we provide the opportunity to participate in full-scale productions.

December 30th, 2024 to January 4th, 2025.

Theatrikos actor and director Adam Wintz will lead a workshop focusing on the tools of dramatic acting. All who attend will have an opportunity to fine tune their acting chops in a fun, relaxed environment. Actors will also learn about the upcoming plays Radium Girls and Picasso at the Lapin Agile. Seasoned actors and first timers are welcome.

November 3, 630.

In the Theatre Black Box.

From the Interim Executive Director

Bruce Fox

Greetings,

I’m reaching out to our community with a request. We are in need of a new rehearsal space.

For the last few years, Kinney Construction Services (KCS) has been incredibly generous and has allowed us to use space in their building for off-site rehearsals, auditions, meetings, and improv performances.  We are beyond grateful for this generosity.  But alas, as with many many good things, this has come to an end as KCS begins renovating this space for new tenants.  So, we have a need for a large space (approximately 50 feet by 25 feet) on an extended basis.  If you know of any such space (or are interested in moving out of your house or buying a building in town or leasing some space for us, lol) please contact us at theatre@theatrikos.com.

Thank you so much for your continued support of the theatre.

Bruce Fox