Capital T Theatre » News

Cap T receives 8 B Iden Payne Nominations

admin — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:09:19 +0000

Capital T Theatre received 8 B Iden Payne Nominations for the 2010-2011 season. HUNTER GATHERERS and A LIE OF THE MIND split the nominations evenly at four a piece. Capital T was the only company nominated for both Outstanding Comedy and Drama as HUNTER GATHERERS was nominated for Outstanding Production of a Comedy and A LIE OF THE MIND was nominated for Outstanding production of a Drama. Travis Dean received two nominations for his work on Cap T for Fight Choreography (Hunter Gatherers) and Outstanding Featured Actor in a Drama (Baylor A LIE OF THE MIND). He was nominated and won both of the same Payne awards 2 years ago for fight choreography for KILLER JOE and acting in I ♥ WALMART. With his nomination for directing HUNTER GATHERERS this is Mark Pickell’s 4th consecutive year to be nominated for Outstanding Director of a Comedy. Here is the full list of nominations for Cap T.

Outstanding Production of a Comedy
Hunter Gatherers

Outstanding Direction of a Comedy
Mark Pickell – Hunter Gatherers

Outstanding Fight Choreography
Travis Dean – Hunter Gatherers

Outstanding Cast Performance
Kenneth Wayne Bradley, Rebecca Robinson, Liz Fisher, Brad Price – Hunter Gatherers

Outstanding Production of a Drama
A Lie of the Mind

Outstanding Featured Actor in a Drama
Travis Dean – Baylor – A Lie of the Mind

Outstanding Featured Actress in a Drama
Rebecca Robinson – Beth – A Lie of the Mind

Outstanding Original Score
Jerry Hagins, Jesse Gregg and Chris Peterson – A Lie of the Mind

Help us also congratulate Cap T regular Joey Hood on his acting nomination for Paper Chair’s production of Baal. Gary Jaffe who directed our New Directions show last year SPIRITS TO ENFORCE was also nominated for Best Direction of a Comedy for The Dudleys!: A Family Game. The awards ceremony will be held on October 24th at the State Theatre downtown. Members of the Greater Austin Creative Alliance can cast their ballots before the awards ceremony to determine the winners in each category. A full list of the nominees can be found here.

Cast of A Lie of the Mind Announced

admin — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 21:34:21 +0000

C
apital T has assembled an all-star cast to tackle Sam Shepard’s dysfunctional family drama A LIE OF THE MIND openingMay 12th at Salvage Vanguard Theatre.

Jake – Kenneth Wayne Bradley

This marks Ken’s fifth project with Capital T. He was seen last Summer as Richard in HUNTER GATHERERS (an all-time favorite role,) and played title role in KILLER JOE in 2009, as Goss in BUG in 2010 and wrote “WIND CHIMES AND VARICOSE CREAM” for Capital T’s I ♥ WAL-MART which was recently published in the Texas Theatre Journal. Ken is also a core company member of Hyde Park Theatre where his more recent roles for HPT include Schultz in CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION, Frank in BODY AWARENESS, Ariel in THE PILLOWMAN, which earned him a Critics Table Award, and Ham in Ham. Ken’s roles with other noted theatre companies include Gould in the Austin Playhouse production of Speed The Plow, Ervin in a Chick and A Dude’s HIT, Cassius in the Austin Shakespeare Festival’s version of JULIUS CAESAR, and Abner in his one man show titled “WICKER CHAIRS.” As a playwright, Ken’s one-woman show “SEAMSTRESS,” performed be Melanie Dean (Meg), was honored as Best of Fest at FronteraFest 2010.

Ken has appeared in the feature films Drive Angry with Nicholas Cage, Stop Loss, Holy Hell, Living The Life, No Pain No Gain, Hope Floats, Little Boy Blue, The Burden, Making Change, Two Mothers For Zachary, (an ABC Movie Of The Week), Junior, Martha, Room–which ran at both the Sundance and the Cannes film Festivals–and Last Lullaby. He also appeared in the highly-lauded Travis Tritt music video for the hit song “Tell Me I was Dreaming.” On television, Kenneth has been seen recently in the “Know When To Pass” PSA and had roles in Chase on NBC, two episodes of Friday Night Lights on ABC; and has also starred in episodes of Prison Break, Walker Texas Ranger, and America’s Most Wanted. He resides in Leander with his beautiful wifeCathy and his two cats, Marcus and Merry.

Meg – Melanie Dean

This is Melanie’s first collaboration with Capital T. She has been acting in Austin since the 70’s appearing in Center Stage’s GODSPELL and GUYS AND DOLLS among other shows, at Capital City Playhouse MARAT/SADE, A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, and HAYFEVER were among her favorites. She also appeared in several Zilker Hillside Theatre Musical Productions including HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING, CAMELOT, CARNIVAL, and INTO THE WOODS. In 2005, she appeared in THE JINN for the Dirigo Group and THE FLUE SEASON for Championship Theater. Her last appearance onstage was in FronterFest where she had the honor to appear in the one-woman show SEAMSTRESS written by fellow actor and dear friend Kenneth Wayne Bradley. She has received 4 B Iden Payne Awards for Acting and numerous nomination. Melanie is thrilled to be working with Capital T, such a great cast of friends and best of all her husband Travis Dean.

Baylor – Travis Dean

This marks Travis’ fourth collaboration with Capital T . He appeared last summer in Cap T’s BUG as Dr. Sweet as well as serving as fight choreographer. He also appeared in I ♥ WAL-MART in “Wind Chimes and Vericose Cream” which earned him a B Iden Payne award for Best Supporting Actor. He aso thrilled audiences by serving as fight choreographer for the violent and gritty KILLER JOE which earned him a B Iden Payne Award for Outstanding Fight Choreography. He has also worked with Refraction Arts in UP IN THE OLD HOTEL (B Iden Payne Award Best Featured Actor). Other Credits include THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT (B Iden Payne Nomination – Lead Actor), THE POSSIBILITIES (B Iden Payne Nomination – Featured Actor), OLEANNA, BINGO, JINN MILL, and as the titular character in MACBETH among others. He is delighted to be working with such a talented ensemble, but most of all he loves sharing the stage with his wife Melanie Dean.

Frankie – Joey Hood

This is Joey’s third appearance with Capital T Theatre. Last summer he appeared as Peter in BUG. He also played Chris in Cap T’s highly lauded KILLER JOE. He was most recently seen in Breaking String’s FLYING and Second Hand Theatre’s ZOO STORY. For Hyde Park Theatre He was most recently seen in HPT’s production of THE ATHEIST (Austin Critics Table Best Actor Award) , THE COLLECTION, and BOMBS IN YOUR MOUTH by Corey Patrick. Also a member of Rude Mechs, Joey has been seen in productions including HAVE YOU EVER BEEN ASSASINATED? THE WATER PRINCIPLE, THE GLORY OF LIVING (Austin Critics Table Nomination Best Actor) TWIGHLIGHT: LOS ANGELES, 1992 (Austin Critics Table Nomination Best Supporting Actor) THE METAMORPHISIS (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Actor) BLUR (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy), Fish (B Iden Payne Nomination) and STADIUM DEVILDARE. Joey is originally from South Mississippi and has been treading Austin stages since 1997. Joey is also Hyde Park Theatre core company member.

Sally – Liz Fisher

This is Liz’s third collaboration with Cap T. She played Wendy in last fall’s outrageous HUNTER GATHERERS. She also appeared in Cap T’s highly lauded DYING CITY (Best Actress ATL Applause Awards, Outstanding Leading Actress – B Iden Payne Nomination). Recently she was seen as Varya in Broken String’s Production of THE CHERRY ORCHARD (Best Featured Actress – Austin Theatre Examiner, Outstanding Supporting Actress – B Iden Payne Nomination ). Favorite roles include: Lily in Hyde Park Theater’s BOMBS IN YOUR MOUTH (BIP nomination, Austin Critics’ Table nomination)Hyde Park Theatre’s FEATURING LORETTA (BIP nomination, Austin Critics’ Table nomination), HUMANS, and PILLOWMAN; MINUS TIDE (BIP nomination) for the Rude Mechs and Bayou Radio; Marci in Austin Playhouse’s DUG UP; Austin Shakespeare’s MACBETH and DOG IN THE MANGER (BIP nomination); REEFER MADNESS, REEFER MADNESS: REHASHED, and LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST for The Bedlam Faction; HBMG Foundation’s STROKE; THE SEAGULL (Austin Critics’ Table nomination) for Breaking String Theater; Unlimited Automotive’s THE SWEETEST SWING IN BASEBALL; and ELEPHANT’S GRAVEYARD for UT Department of Theatre and Dance. Film credits include Holy Hell (recently screened at the Austin Film Festival), The Happy Poet(recently screened at the Venice Film Festival), Nightlife, and Six Minutes. Liz is a also Core Company Member of Hyde Park Theatre.

Lorraine – Karen Jambon

This is Karen’s first collaboration with Capital T. She has been active in Austin theatre for many years as both an actress and director. Among some of her past roles are Eileen in Different Stages’ THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMANN (B. Iden Payne nomination, Best Ensemble), Lady Markby in Different Stages’ AN IDEAL HUSBAND (BIP nomination for Best Supporting Actress), Rumplestiltskin in RUMPLESTILTSKIN for Scottish Rite Children’s Theatre (BIP nomination for Best Performance in a children’s play, Esmeralda in Scottish Rite Children’s Theatre production of HANSEL AND GRETEL (BIP award for Best Performer) and Hannah in Austin Shakespeare’s production of MARY STUART. As a director Karen has been B. Iden Payne nominated for best direction of a play for FUDDY MEERS and BETTY’S SUMMER VACATION and nominated for an Austin Critic’s Table Award for best direction of a play for PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD, all for Different Stages. Karen is a member of the Vortex Repertory and has worked with a number of other theatre companies in Austin and the surrounding areas.

Kenneth has worked as an actor in the Austin area since 1991. Kenneth is a core company member of Hyde Park Theatre where his more recent roles include Ariel in THE PILLOWMAN which earned him a Critics Table Award, Ham in HAM, Carl in GLORY OF LIVING and Lance in SOMETHING SOMEONE SOMEPLACE ELSE. Kenneth also works with some of Austin’s most noted theatre companies. Recently, he was Gould in the Austin Playhouse production of SPEED THE PLOW, Ervin in a Chick and A Dude’s BRASS RING, Cassius in the Austin Shakespeare Festival’s version of JULIUS CAESAR and participated in the ‘09 Austin Scriptworks, Out Of Ink Festival (Time Steps) where he was seen in HARROWING by Kathy Catmull and COWBOY FANTASIA by Sarah Saltwick. In February of this year, Kenneth played Abner in the premier of a one-man show which he wrote called WICKER CHAIRS, directed by Ellie McBride.

A Screen Actor’s Guild member, Ken has appeared the feature films Stop Loss, Holy Hell, Living The Life, No Pain No Gain, Hope Floats, Little Boy Blue, The Burden, Making Change, Two Mothers For Zachary, (an ABC Movie Of The Week), Junior, Martha, Room which ran at both the Sundance and the Cannes film Festivals, and Last Lullaby which will premier in Louisiana later this year. He has also appeared as the Doctor who delivers the bad news to Travis Tritt in the highly lauded music video of the smash hit country song Tell Me I was Dreaming. Kenneth has been seen on television as Gary Powers the Alabama Recruiter in two episodes of Friday Night Lights. He has also starred in episodes of Prison Break, Walker Texas Ranger, and America’s Most Wanted. Kenneth has also appeared in several national television commercials including Celebrex with golfer Tom Kite, and Prilosec OTC which was filmed for the purpose of airing during the 2004 Superbowl. Kenneth has a degree in Fine Arts from Sam Houston State University and studied acting under Yale University Professor Jim Miller.

Mike – Mark Pickell

Is the founder and artistic director of Capital T Theatre Company. His directing credits include MACHINAL, RHINOCEROS, THE NERD, THE GOOD PERSON OF SETZUAN, THEATRE IN THE RED, ROMEO AND JULIET, IN THE WEST, MARAT/SADE, A BRIEF HISTORY OF HELEN OF TROY, LA DISPUTE (Austin Critics Table Nomination Best Comedy), MR. MARMALADE, BLACKBIRD, HAPPY DAYS (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Director, Best Comedy), KILLER JOE (Best Comedy, Best Director Austin Critics Table awards. Outstanding Director B Iden Payne Award), I ♥ WALMART, SICK, BUG (B Iden Payne Nominations Outstanding Comedy, Outstanding Director) and HUNTER GATHERERS. This is his first time onstage since he appeared in Hyde Park Theatre’s critically acclaimed THE PILLOWMAN (Michal). Other acting credits include THE TRUST (James Baker), MY THREE ANGELS (Paul), IN THE WEST (Big Tex), BAREFOOT IN THE PARK (Telephone Man), OKLAHOMA (Jud) and LA BETE (Valere – Austin Critics Table Award). He is a graduate of Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas where he earned a BFA with honors in Theatre. While at Southwestern, Mark interned with the Royal Shakespeare Company in London where he worked on THE MYSTERIES and THE BECKETT SHORTS.

Beth – Rebecca Robinson

This is Rebecca’s third collaboration with Cap T after appearing last fall as Pam in HUNTER GATHERERS. She also played Maxine in SICK. She was last seen onstage in Different Stages’ NIGHT OF THE IGUANA. Originally from Muncie, Indiana, Rebecca has been acting and dancing throughout Central Texas for over a decade. For Hyde Park Theatre she was most recently seen in CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION. Other recent credits include ‘Agnes’ in DANCING AT LUGHNASA at Austin Playhouse and SONATA ESCONDIDA as part of HBMG Foundation’s LOVE SONATAS at the Long Center. Her favorite role remains the volatile ‘Stevie’ in Different Stages’ THE GOAT, OR WHO IS SYLVIA by Edward Albee, for which she earned a B Iden Payne award for Best Actress last in 2008

Rebecca is a longtime company member of Hyde Park Theatre. Recent film work includes a featured role in the thiller, The Retelling which recently premiered at the Alamo Drafthouse. As a choreographer, Rebecca’s latest effort was Joe Hartman’s one man show, OVERWHELMING UNDERDOGS. When she is able to break away from her day job, Rebecca travels to the South Carolina Repertory Company on Hilton Head Island to perform, where she played Sally Tally in TALLY’S FOLLY and the role of ‘Catherine’ in PROOF. Rebecca has a degree in Theatre from Hanover College and an MA in Communcation from the American University in Washingon DC.

Interview with Spirits to Enforce Mastermind Mickle Maher

admin — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:09:38 +0000

Mickle Maher was kind enough to set aside some time to answer some questions posed by Cap T’s artistic director Mark Pickell. Here is their serious and not so serious conversation.

How did the idea of writing a play about 12 superheroes unsuccessfully working a phone bank in a submarine to raise money for a production of the Tempest become a play? What was the spark for this unique story?

I rarely remember the initial idea I have for a piece. I just all of a sudden find myself six months into it, wrestling with a litter of irreconcilable beasties. I know I’d wanted to do a play set in a phone room for awhile. The Tempest has always been a favorite. And a children’s summer theater (Andy’s Playhouse in New Hampshire) asked me to write a play with 18 characters that had something to do with superheroes. The play I wrote for them was much shorter and had a different title, but it was the basis for Spirits.

I saw an article that called SPIRITS TO ENFORCE a sequel to THE TEMPEST. How do you feel about this label? Did you set out to write a sequel?
I didn’t set out to write a sequel — for a long time the relationship between the heroes and The Tempest wasn’t clear. But I think now it’s accurate to call it a sequel, so sure.

Have you ever worked as a telemarketer or fundraiser?
Wait, hasn’t everyone? Yes, I worked as a “tele-fundraiser” for the Chicago Symphony for about 3 or 4 years. And I was really, really good, to be honest. I mean really good. People would put their friends on hold to give me money. It was a horrifying experience.

What is your personal history and relationship with comic books and the mythology of superheroes?
I like Batman better than Superman, and the Flash better than anyone. The Hulk depresses me. I wish the Atom was more popular, but I understand. I never really understood Submariner. Or Silver Surfer.

I don’t think superheroes are mythological. Yet.

Jesus had 12 disciples, there are usually 12 jurors on a jury, Hercules had 12 labors to complete…Is there a significance to the number of superheroes you introduce to us in Spirits to Enforce?

No. Except that 12 is a smaller number than 18, which was the original number of characters in that earlier version I did. And I had to cut things down to make it work.

It seems that the superheroes in your play want the public to value their artistic endeavors as much as their crime fighting contributions to society. While most do not have day jobs as superheroes, artists can definitely identify with this struggle to balance work and art. Have you been able to make a living as an artist?

I teach play writing at the University of Chicago and anywhere else that’ll have me. And I pace around the phone waiting for Julie Taymor to call.

Theater Oobleck, the theatre company that you work with in Chicago, takes pride in the fact that they don’t use a director in their productions, including the original production of SPIRITS TO ENFORCE. It is somewhat ironic that we are using the play developed by a company that doesn’t use directors for our program that seeks to develop directors. Out of sheer curiosity can you give us insight into how the rehearsal process works for a Oobleck production?

Varies with each production, but there are some basic ground rules: 1. An actor has the final say in how his/her line is read. An actor can also rewrite a line or cut it entirely. The playwright is free to lobby them in another direction, but the actor is The Decider.
2. We bring in outside eyes throughout the process to give the actors conflicting notes and confuse them. The more outside eyes the better.

I think that’s about it.

As the superheroes in your play struggle to find funding for their dream production of the Tempest most arts groups across the country are also struggling with budget deficits and public arts funding cuts. Here in Austin, public funding has been frozen and cut for the first time in recent history. Donations are down. The characters in your play face similar obstacles yet there is a sense of optimism and hopefulness that is constant. Are you optimistic about the future or public funding of the arts?

Is there a reason I should be optimistic? I’m very grateful for the funding I’ve received over the years, but I think the argument that artists should be granted a living wage for the work they do in this country was lost long ago. I’m optimistic that great work will continue to be produced regardless of the economics, but there’s not going to be any sweeping reform in our life times.

What is next up for you?
A play about William Blake and having sex in public. And an opera version of my play The Hunchback Variations.

Mickle is a very unique name. How did you parents come by it?
It’s a nickname from birth (off of Michael), given by my then two year old brother. It’s an old English word that means vast, or a large amount, which my brother wasn’t aware of at the time. I liked the accident of that, so I kept it.

If you could have the super(or not so super)powers of any of the Enforcers in your play which would you want?
The Tune, I think. I’ve always had the fantasy of just waking up one day and having an incredible musical ability.

Would you use this power for good or for evil?
I’d probably end up like The Hulk just making everybody depressed.

Mickle Maher is a co-founder of Theater Oobleck and the author of numerous plays, including An Apology for the Course and Outcome of Certain Events Delivered by Doctor John Faustus on This His Final Evening, and The Hunchback Variations (both
published by Hope and Nonthings). His children’s book, Master Stitchum and the Moon, is published by Bollix Books. In recent years his Spirits to Enforce was mounted by Oobleck, and he contributed the translation for Redmoon Theater’s production ofCyrano. Redmoon also produced his latest play, The Cabinet, (a re-imagining of the filmThe Cabinet of Doctor Caligari)

(all photos courtesy of Kristin Basta)

Secret Identities of the Cast of Spirits to Enforce Revealed!

admin — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 23:22:43 +0000

Karen Alvarado

The Silhouette

Karen Alvarado is thrilled to be working on her first Capital T production. Karen received a theatre degree from Texas A&M Corpus Christi, is currently represented by Boulevard Talent Agency and has been lucky enough to be doing non-stop theatre since she moved to Austin 3 yrs ago. Most recent credits include roles in CRUMBLE with Poison Apple Initiative, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM for The Baron’s Men, EARLY GIRL with Paladin Theatre, THEATRE DU GRAND GUIGNOL with The @ Theatre Project, and KUKA with HBMG Foundation.

Travis Bedard

The Untangler

This is Travis’ first time to work with Capital T. With Cambiare Productions he has produced, designed and performed (as Menelaus) in ORESTES (multiple 2009 B Iden Payne Award Nominee including Best Production Drama), produced and directed Caryl Churchill’s SEVEN JEWISH CHILDREN, produced (with Gobotrick Theatre Company) the B. Iden Payne nominated NINA VARIATIONS, produced Megan M. Reilly’s design-as-performance work TRANSFORMATIONS and co-created (with Will Hollis Snider) the B. Iden Payne nominated Intermission. Travis has also performed as Agamemnon in Gobotrick Theatre Company’s ELEKTRA, as Bill Singer in HBMG Foundation’s FOURSQUARE, and Monk in the ArtSpark piece WHO IS ARAM CHAOS?. Travis is the Artistic Director of Cambiare Productions in Austin and a contributing writer to 2amTheatre.com. A long time theatre blogger and proud advocate for new work in general and Austin theatre specifically in the social media realm, Travis is also a participant in Arena Stage’s #Newplay initiative and livestreaming channel, and a facilitator for World Theatre Day. Travis holds a degree in Theatre (Secondary Education) from the University of New Hampshire.

Jay Fraley

Ariel

Jay just recently moved here from Southern California and was last seen on stage as Duncan in LOVE AND MONEY at Rude Guerrilla Theater Company. Recent roles include: David in ORANGE FLOWER WATER, Dan in STRANGERS, BABIES and R.P. McMurphy in ONE FLEW OVER THE COOKOO’S NEST at Rude Guerrilla Theatre Company, the West Coast premiere of FEMALE TERRORIST PROJECT, Candy Darling in the West Coast premiere of CANDY AND DOROTHY, Uncle Peck in HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE and Dr. Dysart inEQUUS. Being an active member of Rude Guerrilla; Jay has been seen in numerous productions, including: FAUST IS DEAD, CLEANSED, TAKING SIDES, SHOPPING AND F**KING, SEARCH AND DESTROY, HISTORY OF THE DEVIL, CORPUS CHRISTI, TERRA NOVA and TIS PITY SHE’S A WHORE. He has worked with South Coast Repertory, Hunger Artists, Venice Playwrights Festival, Grove Shakespeare, The Laguna Playhouse and The L.A. County Museum. He has been actively involved in theatre for the past 30 years.

Jenny Gravenstein

The Page

This marks Jenny’s first production with Capital T. She was recently seen in Austin Playhouse’s production of THREE VIEWINGS; other AP credits include: TURN OF THE SCREW (Governess) and AGE OF AROUSAL (Virginia, B. Iden Payne nomination and Critic’s Table Awards Winner). Other favorite roles include: FOOD CHAIN (Amanda, Circle Theatre, Ft. Worth, TX), ROSENCRANTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD (Guildenstern, Bleecker Street Theatre, New York) and LOVE WITHOUT BORDERS (Svetlana, NTV, Moscow). Jenny returns to Austin Shakespeare Festival this spring in MAN AND SUPERMAN (Miss Ramsden). She received her B.F.A. in acting from SMU, Dallas, TX and studies with legendary Acting Teacher, Wynn Handman, when in New York.

Allison Gregory

Memory Lass

is a recent graduate of Texas State University’s BFA acting program. This marks Allison’s stage debut in Austin and her first collaboration with Capital T. Some of her Texas State credits include Susanne in VINEGAR TOM and Mrs Hedges in SLASHES OF LIGHT, an original play by Judy Tate for Eugene Lee’s Black and Latino Playwright Festival. Allison is also a professional voice talent. This march, you can hear her as the voice of Meera in Agni Production’s Lanka.

Braden Hunt

The Intoxicator

Braden Hunt is thrilled to be making his debut with Capital T Theatre. Originally from Houston he got his training from University of Houston, the Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, and the Stephanie Bradow Voice Studio. Although his most famous work is in japanese animation, his background and love is in musical theatre. Favorite roles include, (Drummer) ANANSI THE SPIDER, (Snoopy) YOU’RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN, (Hugh Dorsey) PARADE, and (Bobby) COMPANY. Currently he is also recording an EP album of original music and playing Quentin Collins in the new webseries of Dark Shadows.

Tyler Jones

The Snow Heavy Branch

Tyler is happy to be performing for the first time with Capital T. He has appeared onstage in Austin with many different companies including Different Stages productions of SPIDER’S WEB, GETTING MARRIED, THE HOLLOW, and THE BEARD OF AVON. At Hyde Park Theatre, he appeared in The LONESOME WEST (B. Iden Payne nomination, Featured Actor), Zilker Hillside Theater’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, THE MUSIC MAN, and MY FAVORITE YEAR, NxNW Theater’s HAY FEVER (B. Iden Payne nomination, Lead Actor), Second Youth’s PETER AND THE WOLF and YOU’RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN (B. Iden Payne nomination, Lead Actor). With City Theater, he has appeared in SONGS FOR THE NEW WORLD, THE BOYS NEXT DOOR, HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES, and DEATH OF A SALESMAN, for which he received the 2008 B. Iden Payne award for Best Featured Actor in a Drama.

Stephen Mercantel

Fragrance Fellow

This marks Stephen’s return to the Capital T theatre stage after appearing as Davey in SICK last fall. He has also appeared in Hyde Park Theatre’s BODY AWARENESS as Jared (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Supporting Actor) this last spring as well as in Summer Stock Austin’s CABARET as Heir Schultz. He has also worked backstage on Cap T’s BUG, I ♥ WALMART, and HUNTER GATHERERS. He is currently completing his degree in theatre at St. Edwards University.

Toby Minor

The Pleaser

Toby got his BA training from New Mexico State University and is a certified actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors (S.A.F.D.) Toby just closed a run of HAMLET with Black Swan Productions, in which he co-choreographed the fights and was part of the ensemble. He also recently worked with Debutants and Vagabonds on A BRILLIANT REVOLUTION, and in Dystheatre’s THE DUCK VARIATIONS. Fight Choreography credits include THE CRUCIBLE and HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES at City Theatre, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DEAM COAT at the Georgetown Palace, MARISOL with the Vestage Group, and for the Film HAZE. Acting film Credits include HAZE, THE THRESHING FLOOR, and SLIM MINTZ. Toby will be playing the role of The Duke of Albany in Vortex’s production of LEAR this spring. This is Toby’s first production with Capital T theatre and is very excited to be working with this fantastic group. Toby is represented by DVA talent.

Antoinette Robinson

The Ocean

is excited to be back onstage for Cap T after a 3 year lay off. For Cap T she appeared as Lucy in MR MARMALADE (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Lead Actress). Other favorite roles include Tattooed Tears in IN THE WEST, Lady Macbeth in MACBETH, Geneva in 1940′S RADIO HOUR, Georgia Hayes in THE EXONERATED, and Armande in MOLIERE IN LOVE. Antoinette was born and raised in Austin Texas, graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a BA in Acting/Directing and is now in her first year in the MFA Acting Program at the University of Texas at Austin.

Blake Smith

The Tune

Blake is excited to be working with Capital T again and on his second New Directions production. He has been seen in Cap T’s SICK, as well as THE BIRD AND THE BEE. He has also appeared in The ZOO STORY, THE THREE CUCKOLDS, and THE HEAD HANDS AND TOE SHOW. Blake is presently working on several short films with more to come.

La Tasha Stephens

The Bad Map

This is La Tasha’s first show with Capital T. Some of her favorite roles include Zephyr in re:PSYCHE, Jack in I’M NOT A WRITER…BUT I’VE GOT A STORY TO TELL, Voice of the People in ORESTES and Bottom in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM. La Tasha is the W.H. “Deacon” Crain Award for Outstanding Student Work as well as Conspire Theatre’s Guest Artist of the Year Award winner for 2010. She is a graduate of Binghamton University where she received her B.A. in Acting/Directing and a graduate from the University of Texas at Austin where she received her M.F.A. in acting.

(All images provided by Ryan Joy)

Cap T Nominated for 11 B Iden Payne Awards!

admin — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 16:04:33 +0000

A
ll three eligible shows for Capital T Theatre were nominated for a total of 11 B Iden Payne awards when they were announced last Tuesday. After members of the Greater Creative Alliance vote on their favorites, the awards will be handed out Monday November 1st at the Long Center. To become a member of GACA and support Capital T click here. Please help us congratulate all the nominees and everyone who helped to make these shows a success.

SICK

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy – Rebecca Robinson

DYING CITY

Outstanding Production of a Drama

Outstanding Director of a Drama – Derek Kolluri

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama – Mark Scheibmeir

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama – Liz Fisher

BUG

Outstanding Production of a Comedy

Outstanding Director of a Comedy – Mark Pickell

Outstanding Lead Actress of a Comedy – Katie deBuys

Outstanding Set Design – Mark Pickell / Tommy Grubbs

Outstanding Light Design – Mark Pickell

Outstanding Sound Design – Adam Hilton

We would also like to congratulate Cap T alums Joey Hood (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy), Xochitl Romero (Outstanding Featured Actress in a Comedy), Katherine Catmull (Outstanding Featured Actress in a Comedy) , Jude Hickey (Outstanding Featured Actor in a Comedy) for their nominations as well as Liz Fisher and Adam Hilton for their double nominations. Our most recent New Directions Director Derek Kolluri was also nominated for Outstanding Director of a Comedy for Sustainable Theatre Project’s DEAD WHITE MALES.

For a complete list of nominees click here

Researchers unearth cast of HUNTER GATHERERS

admin — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:29:39 +0000

C
apital T has assembled these nomadic actors into an amazing cast for our upcoming production of HUNTER GATHERERS opening October 14th at Hyde Park Theatre. While you will see some of your favorite local actors we are also proud to be the first to introduce an amazing talent to the Austin theatre in the bunch.

Richard – Kenneth Wayne Bradley

This is Ken’s fourth collaboration with Capital T after playing the titular KILLER JOE , and as Goss in BUG. He also wrote “Windchimes and Vericose Cream” for Capital T’s world premiere of I ♥ WALMART .Kenneth has worked as an actor in the Austin area since 1991. Kenneth is a core company member of Hyde Park Theatre where his more recent roles include Frank in BODY AWARENESS, Schultz in CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION, and Ariel in THE PILLOWMAN which earned him a Critics Table Award, Ham in HAM, Carl in GLORY OF LIVING and Lance in SOMETHING SOMEONE SOMEPLACE ELSE. Kenneth also works with some of Austin’s most noted theatre companies. Recently, he was Gould in the Austin Playhouse production of SPEED THE PLOW, Ervin in a Chick and A Dude’s BRASS RING, Cassius in the Austin Shakespeare Festival’s version of JULIUS CAESAR and participated in the ‘09 Austin Scriptworks, Out Of Ink Festival (Time Steps) where he was seen in HARROWING by Kathy Catmull and COWBOY FANTASIA by Sarah Saltwick. In February of this year, Kenneth played Abner in the premier of a one-man show which he wrote called WICKER CHAIRS, directed by Ellie McBride.

A Screen Actor’s Guild member, Ken has appeared the feature films Stop Loss, Holy Hell, Living The Life, No Pain No Gain, Hope Floats, Little Boy Blue, The Burden, Making Change, Two Mothers For Zachary, (an ABC Movie Of The Week), Junior, Martha, Room which ran at both the Sundance and the Cannes film Festivals, and Last Lullaby which will premier in Louisiana later this year. He has also appeared as the Doctor who delivers the bad news to Travis Tritt in the highly lauded music video of the smash hit country song Tell Me I was Dreaming. Kenneth has been seen on television as Gary Powers the Alabama Recruiter in two episodes of Friday Night Lights. He has also starred in episodes of Prison Break, Walker Texas Ranger, America’s Most Wanted, and Chase. Kenneth has also appeared in several national television commercials including Celebrex with golfer Tom Kite, and Prilosec OTC which was filmed for the purpose of airing during the 2004 Superbowl. Kenneth has a degree in Fine Arts from Sam Houston State University and studied acting under Yale University Professor Jim Miller.

Wendy – Liz Fisher

This is Liz’s second collaboration with Cap T, but first with director Mark Pickell as she appeared in last Spring’s highly lauded DYING CITY (Best Actress ATL Applause Awards, Outstanding Leading Actress – B Iden Payne Nomination). Recently she was seen as Varya in Broken String’s Production of THE CHERRY ORCHARD (Best Featured Actress – Austin Theatre Examiner, Outstanding Supporting Actress – B Iden Payne Nomination ). Favorite roles include: Lily in Hyde Park Theater’s BOMBS IN YOUR MOUTH (BIP nomination, Austin Critics’ Table nomination)Hyde Park Theatre’s FEATURING LORETTA (BIP nomination, Austin Critics’ Table nomination), HUMANS, and PILLOWMAN; MINUS TIDE (BIP nomination) for the Rude Mechs and Bayou Radio; Marci in Austin Playhouse’s DUG UP; Austin Shakespeare’s MACBETH and DOG IN THE MANGER (BIP nomination); REEFER MADNESS, REEFER MADNESS: REHASHED, and LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST for The Bedlam Faction; HBMG Foundation’s STROKE; THE SEAGULL (Austin Critics’ Table nomination) for Breaking String Theater; Unlimited Automotive’s THE SWEETEST SWING IN BASEBALL; and ELEPHANT’S GRAVEYARD for UT Department of Theatre and Dance. Film credits include Holy Hell (recently screened at the Austin Film Festival), The Happy Poet (recently screened at the Venice Film Festival), Nightlife, and Six Minutes. Liz is a Core Company Member of Hyde Park Theatre.

Tom – Brad Price

This is Brad’s first time working with Capital T Theatre. He is a recent transplant from Los Angeles where he was/is co-founder and ensemble member of Furious Theatre Company. Acting credits with Furious include: THE PAIN AND THE ITCH (West Coast Premiere), GRACE (West Coast Premiere), THE SHAPE OF THINGS (L.A. Premiere), SCENES FROM THE BIG PICTURE (U.S. Premiere), MOJO (West Coast Premiere), THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD, IMPROV STUNT SHOW SPECTACULAR. Credits with other theatres include: THE IMAGINARY MAN (staged reading), FESTEN (staged reading) and ANOTHER PART OF THE FOREST (staged reading) at Pasadena Playhouse; INTO THE WOODS; LEND ME A TENOR; BOYS LIFE; THE FOREIGNER; BRILLIANT TRACES; THE KUNTUCKY CYCLE. Brad can also be seen in the feature film Pure Shock Value.

Pam – Rebecca Robinson

This is Rebecca’s second collaboration with Cap T after appearing last fall as Maxine in SICK. Originally from Muncie, Indiana, Rebecca has been acting and dancing throughout Central Texas for over a decade. She was most recently seen in Hyde Park Theatre’s CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION. Other recent credits include ‘Agnes’ in DANCING AT LUGHNASA at Austin Playhouse and SONATA ESCONDIDA as part of HBMG Foundation’s LOVE SONATAS at the Long Center. Her favorite role remains the volatile ‘Stevie’ in Different Stages’ THE GOAT, OR WHO IS SYLVIA by Edward Albee, for which she earned a B Iden Payne award for Best Actress last in 2008

Kenneth has worked as an actor in the Austin area since 1991. Kenneth is a core company member of Hyde Park Theatre where his more recent roles include Ariel in THE PILLOWMAN which earned him a Critics Table Award, Ham in HAM, Carl in GLORY OF LIVING and Lance in SOMETHING SOMEONE SOMEPLACE ELSE. Kenneth also works with some of Austin’s most noted theatre companies. Recently, he was Gould in the Austin Playhouse production of SPEED THE PLOW, Ervin in a Chick and A Dude’s BRASS RING, Cassius in the Austin Shakespeare Festival’s version of JULIUS CAESAR and participated in the ‘09 Austin Scriptworks, Out Of Ink Festival (Time Steps) where he was seen in HARROWING by Kathy Catmull and COWBOY FANTASIA by Sarah Saltwick. In February of this year, Kenneth played Abner in the premier of a one-man show which he wrote called WICKER CHAIRS, directed by Ellie McBride.

New Directions 2011 Applications Closed

admin — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 20:00:59 +0000

Call for Promising Young Directors

When is the deadline?

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

August 31st at 11:59pm

What is New Directions?

The New Directions program offers a young director with no professional credit the opportunity to direct a full-length play and bring a fresh new voice to Austin theatre while getting paid. The show will be fully produced by Capital T Theatre, and the director will have the opportunity to develop a piece of theatre that both reflects and contributes to the diversity of the Austin/Central Texas arts scene. As part of the New Directions program, Capital T is currently searching for a promising young director for the company’s contribution to the “Long Fringe” of FronteraFest: Theatre on the Edge. The Austin American Statesman calls this festival “the fringe theater event of the Southwest!”

All applicants need to be available in the Austin area during the rehearsal and performance processes (early December through early February). The company currently has several exciting scripts under consideration for FronteraFest, but welcomes suggestions from applicants as well. Plays must meet the following criteria: newer, edgy, and engaging full-length scripts (90 minutes or less); up to approximately 3-4 characters; minimal technical requirements; ability to be produced in six weeks or less.

Who can apply?

Anyone under 35 years of age who does not have a professional directing credit on their resume may apply. We consider any paid directing job a professional credit.

What do I need to do to apply?

To be considered for New Directions an applicant must submit a full theatrical resume and cover letter. The resume should include all theatrical credits. The cover letter should address why you are interested in being the next New Directions Director. It should also answer the question: “How can the New Directions program help you reach your next goal?”. Forward the resume and cover letter to info@capitalT.org

What happens next?

After the deadline has passed, the resumes and letters of interest will be read by a committee who will then select up to 10 finalists to invite to formal interviews. At these interviews each candidate will be given the opportunity to share a visual portfolio as well as discuss plays that are being considered for production. After this first round of interviews 3 finalist are selected for final interviews. Final interviews will be conducted with the artistic director, past new directions directors, and company members.

Who are the past New Directions directors?

Most recently in 2010 Derek Kolluri directed the critically acclaimed DYING CITY for Capital T. The show, which was the most well received of fronterafest longfringe, was given extended performances outside of the festival. Since directing for Capital T Derek has gone on to found The Sustainable Theatre Project. A new theatre company in Austin, STP plans to offer fresh, professional theatre to the Austin theatre community while maintaining the highest possible respect for the environment.

In 2009 Kelli Bland was selected as for our New Directions program to direct the US premiere of THE BIRD and THE BEE by Al Smith and Matt Hartley. This was her first time to work with Capital T. The plays THE BIRD and THE BEE were nominated for Outstanding production of a Drama by the Austin Critics Table Awards. The plays were also the highest attended theatrical event of FronteraFest 2009. Since directing for Capital T she went on to direct and produce the world premiere of the independent musical FASTER THAN THE SPEED OF LIGHT at Salvage Vanguard Theatre.

In 2008 John Carroll was selected for the New Directions program. It was his first time to work with Capital T. He directed the regional premiere of I GOOGLE MYSELF by Jason Shafer. The play earned great critical success in its fronterafest run and was subsequently remounted at Hyde Park Theatre in the summer of 2008 becoming the highest earning production of Capital T’s at the time. John has gone on to found the Weird City Theatre Company, a company that produces re-envisioned classics and original works while merging a new audience with the traditional.

No related posts.

Cap T Announces 2010-2011 Season

admin — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:24:37 +0000

October 2010

“Like a mash-up of the most brutal episode of Wild Kingdom and any episode of South Park.” —San Francisco Bay Guardian

Hunter Gatherers

by Peter Sinn Nachtrieb

Directed by Mark Pickell

October 14-November 6
Hyde Park Theatre

Pam and Richard are hosting their best friends, Wendy and Tom, for their annual dinner get-together. An animal sacrifice kicks off the evening, followed by a little more sex, violence, deception, revelations, wrestling and dancing than previous years. A darkly comic evening where the line between civilized and primal man is blurred, and where not everyone will survive long enough to enjoy the brownies for dessert.

“Outrageously libidinous knockabout farce meets penetrating social satire in Peter Nachtrieb’s hilariously revelatory comedy, an almost two-hour laugh riot.” —San Francisco Chronicle

January 2011

Following up our recent hits of DYING CITY, THE BIRD and THE BEE, and I GOOGLE MYSELF

New Directions

January 2011
Directed by TBA

Our 4th year of offering a young director a chance to direct a play for Capital T

The New Directions program offers a young director with no professional credit the opportunity to direct a full-length play and bring a fresh new voice to Austin theatre while getting paid. The show will be fully produced by Capital T Theatre, and the director will have the opportunity to develop a piece of theatre that both reflects and contributes to the diversity of the Austin/Central Texas arts scene.

May 2011

“the unmistakable expression of a major writer nearing the height of his powers.” – The New York Times

Winner of the New York Drama Critics Circle Award, the Outer Critics Circle Award and the Drama Desk Award.

a Lie of the Mind

by Sam Shepard

Directed by Mark Pickell

May 12- June 4
Salvage Vanguard Theatre

Blinded by jealousy and rage, Jake believes he may have murdered his wife. While seeking refuge in the home of his abusively unstable mother, his brother Frankie goes to investigate and finds himself caught in the confusing currents of revenge and longing.

“Sam Shepard is surely the only dramatist alive who could tell a story as sad and frightening as this one and make such a funny play of it without ever skimping on its emotional depth.” —The New Yorker.

No related posts.

Capital T Receives 2 Austin Critics Table Nominations

admin — Mon, 18 May 2009 04:43:04 +0000

Chase Wooldridge as Jakob in THE BIRD

The Austin Critics Table Award Nominations were announced last week, and Capital T received 2 nominations for their work in 2008-2009. THE BIRD AND THE BEE was nominated for Outstanding Production of a Drama. Company member Chase Wooldridge was cited for his work in the THE BIRD AND THE BEE with a nomination for Acting in a Leading Role.

Capital T would also like to congratulate current cast members of KILLER JOE for their respective nominations. Katie DeBuys who plays Sharla in the upcoming production of KILLER JOE was nominated for Acting in a Supporting Role for her work in UT’s THE IDIOT. Joey Hood, who plays Chris in KILLER JOE was nominated for Acting in a Leading Role for his role in BOMBS IN YOUR MOUTH that premiered at Hyde Park Theatre this past Spring.

A full list of nominations can be found here

The awards are nominated by the local critics of The Austin Chronicle and the Austin American Statesman.

The winners will be announced at an informal ceremony at Capital City Comedy Club on Monday June 1st at 7pm. Admission is free.

Killer Cast for Killer Joe Announced

admin — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 05:30:19 +0000

Capital T is proud to announce its amazing lineup of actors for its June production of Killer Joe at Hyde Park Theatre.

Killer Joe – Kenneth Wayne Bradley

Chris – Joey Hood

Joey is an Hyde Park Theatre core company member. This is his first appearance with Capital T Theatre. He was most recently seen in HPT’s production of Bombs in Your Mouth by Corey Patrick. Also a member of Rude Mechs, Joey has been seen in productions including Have You Ever Been Assassinated? The Water Principle, The Glory of Living (Austin Critics Table Nomination Best Actor) Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 (Austin Critics Table Nomination Best Supporting Actor) The Metamorphosis (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Actor) Blur (B Iden Payne Nomination Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy), Fish (B Iden Payne Nomination) and Stadium Devildare. Joey is originally from South Mississippi and has been treading Austin stages since 1997.

Ansel – Joe Reynolds

Killer Joe marks Joe’s first appearance on an Austin stage and his first collaboration with Captial T. Joe Reynolds has acted regionally at Yale Rep, (The Skin of Our Teeth and The Beaux Strategem), Utah Shakespeare Festival, (Henry IV, Comedy of Errors and The Winters Tale) and The St. Louis MUNY Theatre in 1776. In Los Angeles he was seen in Texmas at Theatre Three, Absolution at The Court Theatre, U.S.A. at The Met Theatre, Haplet: Prince of Brooklyn (co-author) at The Globe Playhouse and many others. On television he appeared on Frasier, Medium, Deep Space Nine and State of Grace. He won best actor at the Chicago ALT Film Festival in the indie film Dead Dogs. He holds a BA from the University of Texas at Austin and an MFA in acting from Yale University.

Sharla – Katie DuBuys

Kate is a native of Santa Fe, New Mexico and a graduate of Northwestern University, currently working toward an MFA in acting at UT. Last summer, Kate appeared at the Texas Shakespeare Festival as Olivia in Twelfth Night and Portia in Julius Caesar. Most recently at UT, Kate played Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Aglaya in The Idiot. Some of her favorite past roles include: “Gwendolen” in The Importance of Being Earnest, “Cleopatra” in Antony and Cleopatra, “Helga” in Katzelmacher, “Claire Gurney” in The Ruling Class, and “The Stepdaughter” in Six Characters in Search of an Author. This is her first collaboration with Capital T.

Dottie – Melissa Recalde

Melissa Recalde is entering her 3rd and final year as a company member of the M.F.A. Acting program at the University of Texas at Austin. She is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, double majoring in both Theatre and English. Her favorite roles at SFA include “Li’l Bit” in HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE, “Nan/Lina” in THREE DAYS OF RAIN, “Grace” in STATES OF GRACE and “Jeanie” in HAIR: THE AMERICAN TRIBAL LOVE-ROCK MUSICAL. In Austin, she has most recently been seen as “Helena” in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, “Hannah” and “Eva” in Capital T’s US premiere of THE BIRD and THE BEE, “Varya” in the world premier of Dostoievski’s THE IDIOT, and the David Mark Cohen New Works Festival’s THE SEVEN. She can be seen next as “Elizabeth” in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE in the B. Iden Payne Theatre this fall. This marks her second collaboration with Capital T Theatre Company.