Theater: Southern Style

By: Katy Brown, Artistic Director of The Barter Players

This morning I walked into Stage II and was greeted by the sight of little girls in Princess dresses, all decked out to enjoy the final performance of “Sleeping Beauty.” There was one little girl in particular that I could see from where I was sitting who was on the edge of her seat the whole show. Kids talked to the actors, “She’s behind you!” and to their parents, “Where did the king go?” and there was lots of gasping and giggling to boot. After the show was over, kids were in the lobby hugging the actors and getting their pictures taken with them. Everyone was smiling and asking questions. I love these mornings.

Most patrons who come to Barter know about the Barter Players and that we do shows for young audiences. They
may have even witnessed what I witnessed this morning- one of the shows that we do at Stage II. Few know, though, the ins and outs of what it is to be a Barter Player, what their jobs entail over the 15 months that they are here, and what the Barter Players mean for the young actors who are members of the company.

The Barter Players is one of the most challenging and fruitful of training programs attached to regional theatres. It’s a mix between an acting company membership and an internship. I seek out actors in their 20’s and 30’s who want to take the next step in their career , and after a rigorous audition and interview process that takes months, I choose the 6 that will be Barter Players for the year. Some of them are right out of undergrad or grad programs. Others have already been on stages around the country. I try to find actors who are going to get the very most out of the experience- driven, skilled, willing people with a passion for acting and learning. They have to come in with strong skills because they will step right onto the Barter stages in many different capacities, but even more important than that is an attitude of learning. Time and time again, I watch the hardest worker pass the person who seemed to have more skills at the start.

And hard work is the name of the game. Barter Players are in our shows for young audiences- usually ten a year- and these aren’t your usual kiddie-theatre faire. We bring the same intense work to Little Red Riding Hood that we would to Hamlet. The Players also perform in the mainstage season in both large and small roles. You can see Players in every show the Barter is doing on any stage this summer. Players also work backstage, help with set change-over, work with costumes, and help build props as well. They understudy many of the roles in the season, and if you’ve ever performed as an understudy, you know what a ride that can be. In addition to all these things, they hang posters, give tours of the facilities, take classes, and take part in play readings. They also have a three month tour in which they travel all over the southeast performing for students in their schools and in performing arts venues.

Possible Players always ask what a typical day is like. It’s hard to say, as each day is very different depending on the time of year, but an example of a summer day is:
8am- Dance class
9:30am- Report to the theatre for Sleeping Beauty
10am- Perform the show
11am- Meet and greet the kids
11:30am-Help change the set to the next show that’s performing in the theatre
12:30pm-Lunch
1:30pm- Arrive at Mainstage for Evita call
2pm- Perform in Evita
4:30pm- Dinner
5:30pm-9:30pm rehearsal for the next show

Each day is very different, I tell the Players ahead of time to expect anything. Actors at the theatre don’t get their schedule for the next day until the night before. There are so many shows rehearsing at the same time, that the stage managers need to see how today went before they can schedule tomorrow efficiently.
It’s a busy life, but there’s a lot they get in exchange. There’s the housing and the modest pay- but that’s not the draw for this job. As a Player, you work Barter professionals on and off the stage, in rehearsal, and in mentoring sessions. You will act alongside the resident company and you will be directed by the directors on staff here. I am devoted to helping each actor progress as quickly and as much as is possible in the time that they are here. We have periodic meetings to talk about their growth and what we can do as a team to help them learn more about this craft. Some of the Players refer to this as “grad school that you get paid for,” and indeed, I’ve been told by Players over the years that they learned more their first summer here than in all 3 years of grad school combined.

Part of the training is in the constant performing Players do. We get to serve the greatest and most honest audience there is: a kid one. You can tell immediately if you are being as truthful and as active as you can be based on the response of the audience. While an adult audience will sit quietly if they don’t like what you are doing, a kid audience will tune you out completely, or even throw things. They don’t let you off the hook for a second- and the Players learn how to bring their very best every time to this demanding audience.
If you can’t tell, I’m incredibly proud of the Players past and present who have furthered their careers here. They have moved on to Barter’s resident company, to start theatres of their own in 3 different states, to other acting companies or theatre teaching positions- and they all take with them the kind of joy I got to see at Stage II this morning, as the little girls in princess dresses flooded out the theatre and thanked each Player with hugs.

The Barter Players are now performing The Frog Prince at Barter Stage II until July 19.

The Creation of a New Play
-by Catherine Bush, Barter’s Dramaturge and Playwright-in-Residence

What a thrill! Last night I was able to sit in the audience and watch the “birthin’” of a new play, a funny, funny play that had the Stage II audience rolling in the aisles, a play that I know like the back of my hand – but did not write. I don’t think I realized how much pressure is on a playwright at the opening of a play until it wasn’t on me! Last night the hot-seat was occupied by Duke Ernsberger, the co-author of the hilarious Don’t Cry For Me, Margaret Mitchell. Duke’s writing partner in crime, his mom Virginia, isn’t arriving until the official opening night next Wednesday, so Duke was left to face the firing squad alone. He had nothing to fear, of course – the crowd loved it! The very idea of three men locking themselves in a room to rewrite the screenplay for Gone With the Wind in one week is ludicrous, the fact that it actually happened is amazing, and Team Ernsberger’s rendering of the event is simply delicious! And who better to bring this story to life than four of the funniest clowns I know – Michael Poisson as movie producer David O. Selznick, Rick McVey as film director Victor Fleming, Ezra Colon as kidnapped screenwriter Ben Hecht and the inimitable Mary Lucy Bivins as the highly efficient secretary, Miss Peabody.

My association with Don’t Cry for Me, Margaret Mitchell began last summer when it was selected as one of the six readings for Barter’s Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights. An instant crowd-pleaser, it was immediately slated for a full production in the 2008 season. I was assigned, along with director Katy Brown, to “dramaturge” the piece. To “dramaturge” means two things: doing historical research to make sure everything in the play (including language, manners, social customs, music, etc.) is appropriate for the time and place in which the play is set – in this case, Hollywood, 1939. It also means “script-doctoring” – helping the playwright identify the flaws in structure, plot development, character development and dialogue and working together to come up with solutions to make the piece the best it can possibly be. This play had no historical flaws; Duke and Virginia had really done their research. As for the “script-doctoring”, I was lucky enough to be paired up with Katy Brown who possesses not only the patience of Job but a sense of the theatrical that would make Aristophanes proud. Together we discussed where we thought the play worked and where we thought it faltered, ate some pizza, discussed/argued/debated some more, made notes, ate more pizza, shared our thoughts with Producing Artistic Director Rick Rose, got his feedback, adjusted our notes, ate even more pizza and then set up a phone date with Duke and Virginia. I believe talking to Team Ernsberger may have been my favorite part of this process. Katy and I would sit at my kitchen table (with a pizza) put my cellphone on “speaker”, kick back and enjoy the show. The reason Don’t Cry For Me, Margaret Mitchell is so funny is because it’s written by two of the funniest people on earth. Duke and Virginia would listened to a note, toss it around, Duke would act out a new bit over the phone, we’d all scream with laughter, that problem would be solved and we would proceed on to the next note. That’s not to say it was all fun and games. Rewriting is HARD work and playwrights who are willing to put their egos aside in order to make their play the best it can possibly be work the hardest. Team Ernsberger was ready for a Carribbean cruise by their fourth or fifth draft…

But it paid off. Because last night over 150 people were able to sit in a theatre and laugh all their cares away for two glorious hours. At the final blackout I leaned over to congratulate Duke and he said “I’ve been in a cold sweat for over two hours, Catherine. How do you stand this?” Then the applause and cheers started and as I joined the audience in their standing ovation I replied, “That’s how.”

Come See Don’t Cry for Me, Margaret Mitchell
Who: Barter Theatre
What: Don’t Cry for Me, Margaret Mitchell
When: May 15 – August 16, 2008
Where: Barter Stage II in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for Don’t Cry for Me, Margaret Mitchell are $27.50, $29.50 and $33.50.
Children Under 12 - $ 13.50
Group rates are available, as well discounts for students
and seniors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 11, 2008

Abingdon, Va.— Barter Theatre’s all-time most requested show, Keep on the Sunny Side: The Songs and Story of the Original Carter Family featuring Eugene Wolf as A. P. Carter, comes home to Barter Theatre for only four weeks beginning April 24, 2008. Tickets are sure to go fast for this production, so don’t delay and make your reservations today!

Keep on the Sunny Side features the popular, heartfelt songs that you love to sing brilliantly interwoven into what many call “the love story that began country music.” Follow along as local playwright Douglas Pote takes us back to experience Sara and A. P.’s first meeting, the famous Bristol Session Recordings and Janette’s vow to keep her family’s music alive. Once again featuring the talented Eugene Wolf, Keep on the Sunny Side, this heart-warming story features favorites such as “Gold Watch and Chain,” “My Clinch Mountain Home,” “Church in the Wildwood,” “Will the Circle be Unbroken,” and, of course, “Keep on the Sunny Side.”

Originally produced as part of Barter Theatre’s Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights, Keep on the Sunny Side: The Songs and Story of the Original Carter Family honors our region’s rich and unique musical heritage. Before coming back to Barter, Keep on the Sunny Side will be performed at The Carter Family Fold, April 17 - 19.

Joining Wolf in this award-winning production are music legend Joy Lynn White as Maybelle, Jill Anderson from Barter’s Almost Heaven as Sara and Kimberly Mays from Barter’s productions of Man of Constant Sorrow, Steel Magnolias and Pump Boys and Dinettes, as Janette. Musicians Buddy Woodward of the Dixie Bee-Liners and Peter Barent Lewis round out the cast directed by Nicholas Piper.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 75th anniversary season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon. Don’t miss a moment in Barter’s yearlong celebration!

Keep on the Sunny Side is sponsored by Central Coal Company; Arrington, Schelin & Herrell, PC; Birthplace of Country Music Alliance; East Tennessee Medical News; Richlands News-Press and WBRF 98.1 FM. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or www.bartertheatre.com for more information and tickets.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: Keep on the Sunny Side
When: April 24 – May 24, 2008
Where: Barter Theatre
How Much: Tickets for Keep on the Sunny Side: The Songs and Story of the Original Carter Family are $ 27.50, 29.75 and $36.75
Student Rate - $13.50.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2008

Abingdon, Va.— Barter’s production of Much Ado About Nothing gets a White House setting at Barter Stage II beginning April 15.

Concerning his new adaptation, Richard Rose says, “The White House setting enhances the humor of the show for a modern audience much in the way that ‘Saturday Night Live’ might do. The goal is to have fun rather than make any kind of political statement. Every time I mention to someone that we are placing the show in The White House ala ‘The West Wing,’ people cackle with anticipation.”

One of Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies goes political in Richard Rose’s adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing. Set in the not-so-distant future White House, Rose creates characters based on present day political figures that audiences are sure to recognize. Young Claudio, the White House Press Secretary, has fallen for the lovely Hero, the social worker daughter of Leo, the President, and she has fallen for him. Their path to the altar looks smooth, until the evil Vice President Don John intervenes. Central to the play are speechwriters Beatrice and Benedick, masters of wit and sworn foes of marriage…until a plot is hatched to bring them together. All ends happily, thanks to incompetent assassins and the lucky discoveries of the bungling Attorney General Dogberry!

As Barter’s producing artistic director, Richard Rose’s other adaptations for the Barter stage during his fifteen-year tenure including Peter Pan, Dracula!, Jane Eyre, Lear, Frankenstein, A Christmas Carol and It’s A Wonderful Life.

Barter’s Resident Acting Company brings this comedy to life. Ashley Campos (Pow’r in the Blood and Dracula!) and Ben Mackel (Peter Pan and Oliver!) play the young lovers, Hero and Claudio; Amy Baldwin (The Road Where It Curves Away and Wooden Snowflakes) plays Beatrice opposite Mike Ostroski (Murderer and The Scarlet Pimpernel) as Benedick; Tricia Matthews (The Sugar Bean Sisters and My River, My Valley) plays the President Leo; Frank Taylor Green, Sean Campos, Gwen Edwards, Tony Cedeño and Wendy Piper round out the cast.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 75th anniversary season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon. Don’t miss a moment in Barter’s yearlong celebration!

Sponsored by Eastman Chemical Company, Much Ado About Nothing can be seen at Barter Stage II from April 15 – May 24, 2008. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or visit the new and improved www.bartertheatre.com for more information and show times or to pick your seats and book your tickets online.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: Much Ado About Nothing
When: April 15 – May 24, 2008
Where: Barter Stage II in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for Much Ado About Nothing are $23.50, $26
and $29.
Children Under 12 - $ 13.50
Group rates are available, as well discounts for students
and seniors

Abingdon, Va.— Relive your childhood dreams in Barter Theatre’s exciting adventure of Peter Pan beginning February 5, 2008.

In the beloved tale of Peter Pan, a boy who has no desire to grow up visits the Darling family in London and whisks away Wendy and her brothers to the magical Neverland for the biggest adventure of their lives. On their journey, they meet the Lost Boys, follow Tinker Bell, befriend Tiger Lily and her Indian friends, fight the pirates and try to avoid the famed Captain Hook.

With a little pixie dusk, the magic of theatre comes to life in Barter’s own adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic story. Watch as Peter, Wendy and the boys fly to Neverland, avoid the ticking crocodile, have thrilling sword fights, and a think a few lovely thoughts all to make a wonderful theatre experience perfect for families, groups or those just wanting to have a feel good evening of professional theatre.

Barter is excited to have a set designed by the world-renown fantasy illustrator Charles Vess. His award-winning artwork has been featured in many gallery and museum exhibitions. His illustrations have graced the pages for major book publishers including Bloomsbury for Susanna Clarke’s Ladies of Grace Adieu to comics, including Marvel’s Spider-Man. Neil Gaiman and Charles Vess’ illustrated novel Stardust (DC/Vertigo) was made into a major motion picture last summer starring Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfieffer and Claire Danes. This is not Barter’s only collaboration with Vess. He and sculptor David Spence have created a sculptural fountain based on A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This latest sculpture will grace the entranceway on to Stonewall Square. Look for details on the unveiling coming in 2008.

Adapted and directed by Barter’s producing artistic director Richard Rose, Peter Pan is sure to be a delight to audiences of all ages. Some of Rose’s previous adapting credits during his fifteen year tenure include Barter’s successful productions of Dracula!, Jane Eyre, Lear, Frankenstein, A Christmas Carol and It’s A Wonderful Life.

Peter Pan features a talented cast of Barter’s Resident Company including Ben Mackel (from Almost Heaven, Baby and Oliver!) as Peter Pan, Gwen Edwards (from Baby and Oliver!) as Wendy, Michael Poisson (from Driving Miss Daisy and Lying in State) as Captain Hook and local young actors Logan Fritz, Noah Schrayer, Nick Austin and Blake Jones.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 75th anniversary season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon. Don’t miss a moment in Barter’s yearlong celebration!

Sponsored by Johnston Memorial Hospital, WCYB, FOX Tri-Cities, Tri-Cities CW4, The Loafer and Z103.5 Music & Fun, Peter Pan can be seen at Barter Stage II from February 5 – April 13, 2008. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or visit the new and improved www.bartertheatre.com for more information and show times or to pick your seats and book your tickets online.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: Peter Pan
When: February 5 – April 13, 2008
Where: Barter Theatre in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for Peter Pan are $25.75, $28.75 and $34.50.
Children under 12 - $13.50.
Group rates are available, as well discounts for students
and seniors

Abingdon, Va.— Celebrating its 75th Anniversary, Barter Theatre, The State Theatre of Virginia, proudly presents the funny, powerful and uplifting Pow’r in the Blood at Barter Stage II beginning January 25.

A humorous and touching story of family and forgiveness, Pow’r in the Blood reveals the inner dynamics of a Southern family. When Heather comes home to Georgia to visit her mother, Ada, in the hospital, reconnecting with her Southern roots is not as easy as it once was. Comedic moments surface throughout when several visitors come to visit, but as mother and daughter struggle to understand each other, we see there is indeed ‘wonder working pow’r in the blood.’

Pow’r in the Blood was a finalist in Barter’s Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights in 2006 and was a huge crowd pleaser as a mini-production during the festival in 2007. Barter’s AFPP allows Appalachian playwrights the opportunity to have plays produced and gain constructive mentoring by theatre professionals through a selection, staged reading and mini-production process. Some other successes of AFPP include Keep on the Sunny Side: The Songs and Stories of the Original Carter Family; Wise Women; The Other Side of the Mountain and Man of Constant Sorrow.

Barter alum, T. Cat Ford, author of Links and A Simple Gift, has created a life-affirming story for everyone who’s ever had to deal with the issue of forgiveness, especially when family is involved. Ford has worked as a professional actor in regional, international and New York Theatre. A Simple Gift was a finalist for the 2004 National Playwrights Conference, and a semi-finalist for the 2003 Mill Mountain Theatre New Play Competition.

Pow’r in the Blood is directed by another longtime Barter alum, the talented Susanne Boulle. Audiences will remember Boulle from her acting role in Sylvia and her direction of The Baby Dance, Of Mice and Men, Travels with My Aunt and, most recently, Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol.

“This production explores how life’s beautiful moments can sometimes be our most challenging,” said Boulle. “This show is for anyone who has felt like a stranger in their own hometown or has wanted desperately to share their own spiritual path and has felt misunderstood.”

Featuring three of Barter’s most beloved actresses, Mary Lucy Bivins, Melissa Owens and Amy Baldwin, this production is filled with moments you will not want to miss. Mary Lucy Bivins, known for her diverse roles in shows such as My River, My Valley; Lying in State; The Quiltmaker and Driving Miss Daisy, is back on Barter’s stage playing Ada. Melissa Owens, who plays Heather, has been adored in The Sugar Bean Sisters, The Scarlet Pimpernel and I’ll Never Be Hungry Again. Amy Baldwin, seen recently in Wooden Snowflakes, Lear and Jimmie Rodgers: America’s Blue Yodeler, appears as Dorothy. Pow’r in the Blood includes a breakout role by Ashley Campos as a mysterious woman in the hospital waiting room, and has an accomplished supporting cast that includes Nicholas Piper, Rick McVey and Chandler Davis.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 75th anniversary season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon. Don’t miss a moment in Barter’s yearlong celebration!

Sponsored by TruPoint Bank and ABC WKPT 19, Pow’r in the Blood can be seen at Barter Stage II from January 25 – March 30, 2008. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or visit the new and improved www.bartertheatre.com for more information and show times or to pick your seats and book your tickets online.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: Pow’r in the Blood
When: January 25 – March 30, 2008
Where: Barter Stage II in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for Pow’r in the Blood are $23, $25 and $29.75.
Children under 12 - $13.
Group rates are available, as well discounts for students
and seniors

ABINGDON, Va. – What is the best way to celebrate a 75 year history of theatrical entertainment? Roll out the biggest season ever at Barter Theatre full of musical spectacles, beautiful Appalachian hits, hilarious classics and new shows where everyone can experience new feelings or see it again for the first time. Find all this and more at Barter Theatre in 2008.

Celebrating 75 years of professional theatre in the Appalachian region, Barter Theatre, located in historic downtown Abingdon, Virginia, kicks off its 2008 Season with a variety of shows with something for every desire. Peter Pan, the beautiful tale of childhood and adventure flies into Barter Theatre this spring along with the Shaw production featuring a woman of strength, Saint Joan. Stage II offers some edgier material full of intensity, life, family and laughter.

Since 1933, Barter is known for bringing the best in theatrical entertainment and educational programming to our region. For 2008, with a season bursting full of passion, excitement and adventure, we anticipate a beloved anniversary season!

The 2008 season will offer an exciting and entertaining collection of comedies, drama, musicals, new and Appalachian plays that will make Barter’s anniversary season one to remember. Productions for 2008 include three family spectaculars Peter Pan, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Miracle on 34th Street that are wonderful for everyone. Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights winners return to Barter including Catherine Bush’s Comin’ Up a Storm; the hilarious comedies Don’t Cry for Me Margaret Mitchell, Pow’r in the Blood, the endearing Road Where it Curves Away; and the most requested show of all time, Doug Pote’s Keep on the Sunny Side: The Songs and Story of the Original Carter Family. We are bringing the classics including George Bernard Shaw’s Saint Joan, Dumas’ The Cure for Love, and Barter’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy Much Ado About Nothing. For those who like edgier material, check out Blackbird and Another Night Before Christmas… and the hit musicals The Who’s Tommy, Sweeney Todd and Bat Boy: The Tabloid Musical. Finally to top off the season already packed full of extraordinary theatre, Barter is presenting as a surprise, one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s favorite mega-musicals next summer that is so exciting, it cannot be announced until mid-February.

You won’t want to miss any of these productions. Limited numbers of Season PassBooks are still available and are designed to provide the most flexible options - the choices are all yours. There is a Barter PassBook made to fit your lifestyle and budget. PassBooks are on sale until April 1, with special discounts before January 1. Call Barter Theatre’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 to order your PassBooks today. PassBooks make great gifts that are enjoyed for the entire year; much better than a fruitcake!

Located in beautiful downtown Abingdon in the rolling hills in Southwest Virginia, Barter Theatre offers audiences to name their adventure. With 18 shows running year-round, Barter is sure to satisfy your appetite for world-class professional theatre. From classic family favorites to timeless musicals and new and Appalachian works to award-winning children’s theatre, Barter has it all. With the opportunity to see up to 4 plays in 3 days, you can find your desire at Barter Theatre.

For other ticket information or to find out more about the shows that will be playing at Barter Theatre and Barter Stage II this year, check out Barter Theatre’s new website that allows audiences to buy tickets online, at www.bartertheatre.com.

Abingdon, Va.— Everyday we have the choice to be a better person…that is the message as the joy of the Christmas returns with the classic ghost story of the holiday season, A Christmas Carol beginning November 23.

Wrap yourself in the warmth of the holidays with Charles Dickens’ masterpiece made spectacular in Barter’s production full of traditional Christmas songs and exciting effects that help tell the beloved story of a man who finds the true meaning of Christmas.

Ebenezer Scrooge, a cheap old banker with a cold heart, is perfectly content to live his life in frustrated solitude, until one fateful night when he is visited by the spirit of his long-time friend and former partner, Jacob Marley. Marley, in shackles, tries to persuade Scrooge to change his ways by showing him his fate. Special spirits come to visit Scrooge and attempt to express to him the true meaning of Christmas.

Barter’s telling of the classic is set in a warehouse in London where a group of ghosts gather together each Christmas Eve to tell the story of Scrooge’s evening of dreams that transformed an angry miser into a kind, caring and giving gentleman. Nicholas Piper, the director of A Christmas Carol, said that this story is to “remind us that if mean old Ebenezer Scrooge can change, surely it’s not too late for us.”

With incredible sound effects and a giant Ghost of Christmas Future that is a spectacle to see, Barter’s A Christmas Carol is a perfect gathering for your friends, family or colleagues. Experience and relive the sheer exhilaration of Scrooge’s experience, the release from his small and selfish life to one of giving, brotherhood and love. “This show reminds us that every day we wake up, and we have a new chance; we can change,” Piper said. This spirited gift to treasure with friends and family, A Christmas Carol offers us all a message of hope and a delight in the season of giving.

Adapted by Barter’s producing artistic director Richard Rose, A Christmas Carol is one of Barter audiences’ favorites. Some of Rose’s previous adapting credits during his fifteen year tenure include Barter’s successful productions of Dracula!, Jane Eyre, Lear, Frankenstein and It’s A Wonderful Life.

Michael Poisson, seen recently in Dracula! and Driving Miss Daisy will take on the role of the man of great transformation, Ebenezer Scrooge. Along with the ghosts of Christmas, Mary Lucy Bivins of Driving Miss Daisy and The Quiltmaker, and Frank Taylor Green of Dracula! and It’s a Wonderful Life, Eugene Wolf of Keep on the Sunny Side and Oliver! plays the kind-hearted Bob Cratchit. Tricia Matthews, Mike Ostroski, Rick McVey and Meredith Autry Holcomb round out the adult ensemble cast. A Christmas Carol also includes a talented youth cast that includes Ryland Acree, Aria Binkley, Kevin O’Bryan, Adam Gambrel, Clara Gambrel, Gabriel Gounaris, Audrey Mallory and Sarah Lyn Smith.

Morning, afternoon, evening and weekend performances of A Christmas Carol are available beginning Thanksgiving weekend and running through the end of the year. Group and individual rates are available to this family-friendly holiday tradition.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 74th season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon.

Sponsored by Bristol Virginia Utilities, Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, Bristol Herald Courier, WWWJ Radio and Kingsport Times News, A Christmas Carol can be seen at Barter Theatre from November 23 – December 30, 2007. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or www.bartertheatre.com for more information and show times.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: A Christmas Carol
When: November 23 – December 30
Where: Barter Theatre in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for A Christmas Carol are $27, $30 and $38.
Children under 12 - $13.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2007

The Sweet Southern Comedy Driving Miss Daisy
Comes to Barter Theatre

Abingdon, Va.— Driving Miss Daisy, one of America’s most fun, touching and totally irresistible stories begins October 5 at Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Va. and will warm your heart with a message of understanding and hope.

A treat for all audiences, Driving Miss Daisy is a moving story of friendship told with humor, warmth and beauty. This family comedy is set in Atlanta, Ga. from 1948-1973. Boolie hires Hoke, a chauffer, against his aging mother’s wishes, after she “destroys one three-week-old Packard, a two-car garage and a tool shed” when she was “just putting the car in reverse.” From that point, follow the interesting relationship that develops between the black man and the Werthan family.

Barter’s production stars Mary Lucy Bivins as Daisy, a role that will be one of her greatest to date at Barter. Richard Rose, Barter’s producing artistic director, and the director of Driving Miss Daisy, considers this to be a “signature role” for Mary Lucy and one for which she will be remembered. Mary Lucy has previously starred in The Sugar Bean Sisters, Lying in State and Steel Magnolias. “I’m excited to play a woman who was ultimately willing to grow and change,” said Bivins of her character Daisy.

This sweet Southern story will replace the previously scheduled Candide. Driving Miss Daisy will follow the same schedule as previously published for Candide. Of the change, Rose said, “We are excited about doing Driving Miss Daisy, and patron response has been great. This is a good Southern play that is both uplifting and heartwarming, and perfect for our audiences.”

Driving Miss Daisy looks at the daily and individual lives in a time of some of the most significant changes in American history. A play with a beautiful sense of discovery and overcoming our own prejudices, adversities and stereotypes of one another, Driving Miss Daisy, gently raises questions about serious issues—aging, bigotry and civil rights.“Driving Miss Daisy makes a statement of how individuals must overcome stumbling blocks and prejudices to accept one another on a rudimentary level,” said Richard Rose. “It’s rare to get a piece that is funny, moving and gentle all at one time,” Rose said.

Written by Alfred Uhry in 1987, Driving Miss Daisy won a Pulitzer Prize and went on to be an Academy Award-winning film in 1989 starring Morgan Freeman and Jessica Tandy.

Along with Mary Lucy Bivins playing Daisy, Michael Poisson, from Married Alive! and Green Gables will play her son Boolie, and Jasper McGruder from To Kill a Mockingbird, South Pacific and WMKS: Christmas 1942 has returned to Barter to as Hoke. Audiences that have enjoyed Jasper in this fall’s Jimmie Rodgers: America’s Blue Yodeler will love Jasper in this more dramatic role.

Driving Miss Daisy contains no offensive language or actions and is recommended viewing for any teen or adult.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 74th season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon.

Sponsored by Marquee Magazine, WKPT-TV, BB&T and Columbus McKinnon, Driving Miss Daisy can be seen at Barter Theatre from October 5 – November 17, 2007. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or www.bartertheatre.com for more information and show times.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: Driving Miss Daisy
When: October 5 – November 17, 2007
Where: Barter Theatre in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for Driving Miss Daisy are $26, $28 and $36.
Children under 12 - $13.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2007

Experience the Search for Peace of Mind and Calm of Heart
in Barter Stage II’s Doubting Thomas

Abingdon, Va.— What do you do when every fiber of your being wants to do the right thing, yet you have no idea what “the right thing” is? Doubting Thomas, a new thought-provoking and touching play to receive its world premiere production at Barter Stage II in Abingdon, Va. beginning September 28, addresses these and other questions of faith.

Doubting Thomas, written by John Green, author of the hotly debated and Pulitzer Prize nominated play at Barter - The Liquid Moon, follows the present-day story of a young passionate, born-again young Christian named Thomas who is deeply in love with his fiancée and is seeking an answer over his conflict between the tenants of his faith and his own sense of self, his heart and his mind. He looks to guidance from two mentors: Pastor Bob, a talented and charismatic preacher, and Peter, a brilliant and challenging professor. Thomas is forced into a struggle between loving both God and his fiancée and being his true self in his battle to find peace of mind and truth of heart.

Doubting Thomas allows audiences an inside perspective into the private and moving moments in relationships between lovers, mentors and friends. We are allowed into the times in people’s lives when they struggle to live the same faith in private as they do in public.

“This show is guaranteed to make you want to talk with friends and families,” says Doubting Thomas director, Katy Brown. “We held an open town hall discussion about the play just the other night with some leaders from the community and members of the public to a wonderful and rousing debate about life, religion, relationships, and how we interact with each other based on our beliefs. This show evokes amazing and wonderful reactions.”

Join us for what is sure to be an enlightening and evocative production on the topic of spirituality and self. “This production looks at crises of self-understanding that create the defining moments in our lives,” says Barter resident actor Sean Campos, who plays Thomas. “In the end, Thomas discovers that it is not about Heaven or Hell, but about inner peace and a personal relationship with God.”

Doubting Thomas stars four members of Barter’s talented acting company who are passionate about presenting this world premiere addressing some important issues society confronting society today. Thomas is played by Sean Campos who has been seen in Barter’s productions of Almost Heaven, Married Alive and Baby: A Musical. His fiancée, Julie, is played by Meredith Autry Holcomb from Murderer, Jane Eyre and Oliver!. Two actors who are local favorites play the two mentors in Thomas’ life, Pastor Bob and Peter. Eugene Wolf, from Keep on the Sunny Side and Lear plays the struggling professor, Peter. His nemesis is Pastor Bob, played by Rick McVey, known for his roles in Oliver!, Don’t Hug Me and It’s a Wonderful Life. Katy Brown directs this production, which she considers to be “a multilayered investigation of faith and truth.”

While dealing with adult relationships, Doubting Thomas contains no offensive language or actions and is recommended viewing for any teen or adult.

The State Theatre of Virginia, the world famous Barter Theatre is celebrating its 74th season of producing professional non-profit theatre in the Appalachian Region. Known for outstanding musicals, comedies, dramas, new and Appalachian works and award-winning educational programming, Barter Theatre, Barter Stage II and The Barter Players present programs several times a week, and patrons can see up to five shows in two days in beautiful downtown Abingdon.

Sponsored by the Washington County News, Doubting Thomas can be seen at Barter Stage II from September 28 – November 11, 2007. Contact Barter’s Box Office at (276) 628-3991 or www.bartertheatre.com for more information and show times.

Who: Barter Theatre
What: Doubting Thomas
When: September 28 – November 11, 2007
Where: Barter Stage II in historic downtown Abingdon, Va.
How Much: Tickets for Doubting Thomas are $22, $24 and $29.
Children under 12 - $13.