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WHAT'S OPENING, PLAYING & CLOSING IN SAN FRANCISCO BAY THEATRES.

Posted by:	Richard Connema 03:23 pm EST 12/22/13

------------------------ OPENINGS --------------------------- SCROOGE The Haunting of Ebenezer Written by Charles Dickens Performed by Jeff GarretDirected by Peter Ruocco—Whittled from the original Dickens, Jeff Garrett embodies everyone from Bob Cratchit and Jacob Marley to Fezziwig and Tiny Tim as his hard-hearted title character experiences a chilling brush with immortality. Grab a cup of hot apple cider and experience the solo version of this classic Christmas Eve ghost story. Two performances only! Monday December 23rd & Tuesday, December 24th, 8PM. Yes, Scrooge is a miser, a man obsessed with the pursuit of profit, struggling to pinch every penny he can, and these aspects of the story will always resonate in a capitalistic greed-obsessed society. But Scrooge was also a tortured man. He constructed a fortress of money as a defensive mechanism, and his obsessions could be construed as merely a way to protect himself. It is his isolation that is most intriguing and also most relatable, for how many people in modern times have distanced themselves from human contact as a way of avoiding the pain that it entails? Jeff Garrett conjures the spirits Dickens’ incredible characters, performing one man’s journey into himself - a journey of self-reflection, discovery, terror and the decision to change. The story dredges up questions surrounding social responsibility and challenges us to recognize the plight of all of those around us – wealthy, sane, or otherwise. The story of Scrooge is wonderfully creepy, but it also warns of the dangers of allowing ignorance and want to fester in our civilization. WHERE: The Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Avenue, Berkeley. Easy street parking. Across from Ashby BART. TICKET PRICES: $15. Advance Tickets available at: www.shotgunplayers.org, 510.841.6500. Kinsey Sicks Legs Saturday, December 28, 2013 – The Kinsey Sicks, America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet, are celebrating their 20th anniversary on Saturday, December 28, 2013 at the Castro Theatre (429 Castro Street, San Francisco). The evening will feature the San Francisco premiere of their new musical comedy, America’s Next Top Bachelor Housewife Celebrity Hoarder Makeover Star Gone Wild!, as well as guest appearances and a sashay down memory lane, all in glorious 4-part harmony. Tickets are $40 and $25 and are available for purchase now at www.CityBoxOffice.com or by phone at 415-392-4400. ---------------------------------------------------- PLAYING----REVIEWS ARE UP ON THESE ----------------------------------------- The Children of Willesden Lane By Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen Directed and adapted by Hershey Felder Starring Mona Golabek as Lisa Jura Creative team: Trevor Hay and Hershey Felder (scenic designers), Jaclyn Maduff (costume designer), Christopher Rynne (lighting designer), Erik Carstensen (sound designer), Andrew Wilder and Greg Sowizdrzal (projection designers). In Pianist of Willesden Lane, Mona Golabek performs some of the world’s most beautiful music, live—as she relates the real-life legacy of her mother’s quest to survive the Nazi regime. “Unforgettable,” lauds the LA Times. WHERE: Berkeley Repertory Theatre Thrust Theatre, 2015 Addison Street @ Shattuck, Berkeley, CA 94704 :COST: $29 - $89 (subject to change) Discounts: • Half-price tickets available for anyone under 30 years of age • $10 discount for students and seniors one hour before curtain • Groups of 15 or more, contact (510) 647-2918 or groups@berkeleyrep.org TIX & INFO: (510) 647-2949 – berkeleyrep.org IT HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO JANUARY 4, 2014 Tristan & Yseult Adapted and directed by Emma Rice Writers: Carl Grose and Anna Maria Murphy Main Season • Roda Theatre –January 6, 2014 West Coast premiere Kneehigh is back! Britain’s beloved theatre company returns to the Bay Area with a glorious story of love. King Mark rules with his head, until he falls head over heels for his enemy’s sister. Based on an ancient tale from Cornwall, Tristan & Yseult revels in forbidden desires, broken hearts, grand passions, and tender truths. It’s another marriage of gorgeous music and ingenious staging from the acclaimed creators of Brief Encounter and The Wild Bride. Embrace comedy and spontaneity in this West Coast premiere for an irresistible night of love. Berkeley Rep’s Roda Theatre, 2015 Addison St. Berkeley. (510-647-2929) www.berkeleyrep.org IT CLOSES ON JANUARY 6TH STOREFRONT CHURCH By John Patrick Shanley Directed by Joy Carlin It runs thru January 11th It's almost Christmas, and Tony, Oscar and Pulitzer winner, John Patrick Shanley (Doubt), transports us to a wintery Bronx, where gluttonous bankers devour giant gingerbread houses, a disillusioned preacher rediscovers his faith, and a modern day Scrooge is redeemed. WHERE: San Francisco Playhouse, 450 Post Street, SF TICKETS: For tickets ($30-$100) box office: 415-677-9596, or www.sfplayhouse.org. Directed by Joy Carlin and starring popular Bay Area actors Derek Fischer, Rod Gnapp, Carl Lumbly, Gabriel Marin, Ray Reinhardt and Gloria Weinstock, Storefront Church is a contemporary Holiday story: funny and touching, asking questions of us, showing both the good and bad sides of people but ultimately an uplifting and inspiring story. Storefront Church joins Doubt and Defiance to complete Tony, Oscar and Pulitzer winner John Patrick Shanley's "Church and State" trilogy where, as in all his best works, he calls out authority figures and tests their mettle with moral issues. Shanley elaborates: "I think, with the third play, it all comes to a landing place. I feel a sense of resolution about it. I'm quite pleased with Storefront Church. What it says is very applicable to the time we're living in. There is a dearth of places for people who have a spiritual hunger to satisfy, and there's a dearth of places for people who have the hunger for community to satisfy." IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 11TH FOODIES THE MUSICAL* The Show for Everyone Who Eats, Written and Directed by Morris Bobrow playing an opening end run at the Shelton Theatre, 533 Sutter Street, San Francisco. (800-838-3006) REVIEW IS UP ON REGIONAL. --------------------------------------- REVIEWS COMING UP ON REGIONAL ------------------------------------------------------ - SHN is spreading the holiday cheer with two productions at the SHN Curran Theatre that are perfect for the entire family: DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (December 21, 2013-January 5, 2014). Both productions include early start times (7pm or 7:30pm) and several matinee performances to choose from. Tickets are now on sale. DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST December 21, 2013 -January 5, 2014 SHN Curran Theatre DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. Ticket Information: Tickets for CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE and DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST are now on sale at shnsf.com or by calling Audience Services at 888-746-1799. Tickets for DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST from $45-$160. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast It runs thru -January 5 Mon – Fri @ 2pm Sat @ 2pm & 7:30pm Sun @ Noon & 5:30pm Added performance: Fri Jan 3 @ 7:30pm No performance: Dec 25, Dec 31 and Jan 1 IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 5TH — New Conservatory Theatre Center is proud to present the 2003 Tony Award-Winner for Best Musical, Avenue Q, with Music and Lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, book by Jeff Whitty, based on an original concept by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx. The show will run thru – January 12, 2014 and will take place at New Conservatory Theatre Center (Decker Theatre); Wednesday- Saturday at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets are $25 - $45 and are available at nctcsf.org. Avenue Q is the Tony Award-winning, laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. Once there, he meets Kate (the girl next door), Rod (the Republican), Trekkie (the internet sexpert), Lucy the Slut (need we say more?), and other colorful types who help Princeton finally discover his purpose in life! IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 12TH SHOTGUN PLAYERS PRESENTS Edward Gant’s Amazing Feats of Loneliness Written by Anthony Neilson Directed by Beth Wilmurt— Behold! For your enjoyment, Master Gant has crafted an evening of incredible tales featuring his troupe of traveling performers. Submit to a sensual Edwardian world of top hats, fantastical puppets and flash powder. But beware, there is a dark underpinning to the festivities. Damsels pop pimples to reveal pearls; a young soldier gets a lobotomy to forget a lost love. It is a feast for the senses and a song for the heart! Performances for Edward Gant’s Amazing Feats of Loneliness run through January 11 at The Ashby Stage. What is a story for, really? An exciting tale. Sure. A strong plot. Great. Edward Gant’s storytelling is certainly full of fantastical things. It's imaginative and outrageous, but it's also rife with truthful observations about human existence that punch you in the gut and pierce your heart. The play speaks to a natural human desire – the urge to control the narrative of our lives. It’s a constant struggle that begs reckoning. Edward Gant’s Amazing Feats of Loneliness features Brian Herndon, Patrick Kelly Jones, Ryan Drummond* & Sarah Moser. Set Design by Nina Ball, Costume Design by Christine Crook, Sound Design by Jake Rodriguez, Light Design by Mark D’Angelo & Properties Design by Kirsten Royston. WHEN: Previews for Edward Gant’s Amazing Feats of Loneliness are December 5 - 12. Opens Friday, December 13th. Runs Wednesday and Thursday at 7PM, Friday and Saturday at 8PM, Sunday at 5PM through January 11th. WHERE: The Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Avenue, Berkeley TICKET PRICES: December 5 - 12 are Pay-What-You-Can. Regular performance nights $20 - $35. Advance reservations strongly advised. For more information go to www.shotgunplayers.org or call 510.841.6500 IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 11TH COMBINED ARTFORM PRESENTS THE OFF BROADWAY SMASH IN A SPECIAL HOLIDAY LIMITED ENGAGEMENT! SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT Written and Performed by Jeffrey Solomon 6 SHOWS ONLY! It runs thru December – 24 San Francisco…Combined Artform is thrilled to present solo performer JEFFREY SOLOMON in his Off-Broadway smash hit, SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT. SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT running thru– 24 at the Eureka Theatre in San Francisco. In rep with The Santaland Diaries. SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT explores the secret romantic life of the great holiday icon and the controversy that engulfs the world when the truth is revealed. When a little boy’s gender atypical gift request to the North Pole is denied, a series of heart-felt letters from the child nudge Santa Claus out of the closet and into the culture wars. A theatrical documentarian inspired by Anna Deveare Smith and the Laramie Project, Mr. Solomon purports to have interviewed, and portrays, all of the key players in the scandal that has come to be known as "Santa-Gate". Characters include little gay Gary, his confused mom and angry dad, Santa’s fake-actress wife, his Agent, his one true love, Giovanni and Mary Ellen Banfield, a conservative activist who is fighting to institute a Santa NO FLY ZONE. The play was inspired by the debate on providing gay role models to children, and the so-called “parents’ rights” movement to keep gay issues out of the classroom. Santa Claus is Coming Out will open December 19 at 8pm and run December 20 at 8pm, December 21 at 9:30pm, December 22 at 5pm, December 23 at 6pm and December 24 at 3pm. Ticket prices are $25-$35 at the door. Performing at the Eureka Theatre located at 215 Jackson St in San Francisco. No Shows December 25. Tickets are $20 - $35. Available at www.combinedartform.com and 800-838-3006 ----------------------------------------- OTHER PRODUCTIONS PLAYING: ----------------------------------- TheatreWorks, the nationally acclaimed theatre of Silicon Valley, celebrates the holidays with four precocious New England sisters in LITTLE WOMEN, a heartwarming musical directed by TheatreWorks Artistic Director Robert Kelley. Beloved by six generations of readers, the March sisters come of age in this exhilarating Broadway musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s cherished 1860s novel. Overflowing with laughter, tears, and memorable songs, LITTLE WOMEN follows feisty aspiring writer Jo, traditional Meg, soft-spoken Beth, and vivacious Amy on their exuberant journey of personal discovery, romance, heartbreak, and enduring sisterhood. Due to high demand, TheatreWorks has pre-extended this holiday delight through January 4, 2014, adding an extra week of performances. WHEN: Closes: Sunday, January 4, 2014 SHOWS: 7:30 PM Thursdays and Fridays: 8:00 PM Saturdays: 2:00 PM, 8:00 PM Sundays: 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM SPECIAL HOLIDAY SCHEDULE: December 23 – 26 Monday: 7:30PM Tuesday: No performance Wednesday: No performance Thursday: 2:00PM; 8:00PM December 30 – January 4 Monday: 7:30PM Tuesday: 2:00PM Wednesday: No performance Thursday: 8:00PM Friday: 2:00PM, 8:00PM Saturday: 2:00PM, 8:00PM WHERE: Lucie Stern Theatre 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, CA TICKETS: $19 (30 and under) - $79; savings available for educators, seniors, and patrons 30 and under. A $6 convenience fee will be assessed for online and telephone orders. INFO: For information or to order tickets visit theatreworks.org or call (650) 463-1960 IT CLOSES JANUARY 4TH This holiday season, Marsh Youth Theater (MYT) continues its collaboration with famed author Gary Soto for the Bay Area Premiere of TOO MANY TAMALES. Adapted for the stage by Margarita Galban and Linda Montalvo of the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts in Los Angeles, this exuberant holiday show is based on Soto’s beloved picture book by the same name. In this hilarious and touching tale, Maria tries on her mother’s wedding ring while making tamales for a Christmas party. Panic ensues when, hours later, she realizes the ring is missing and enlists her cousins to eat through dozens of tamales to find the ring. TOO MANY TAMALES, which also features puppets and lively Mexican music, is directed by Marcelo Pereira and will be performed by the MYT Teen Troupe, with technical and staging support from MAPA@Brava (Mission Academy of Performing Arts at the Brava Theatre). WHEN: It runs thru- January 4, 2013 SHOWS: Daytime school shows: Regular performances: Week one: Dec 21 –Dec 23 Saturday 2pm and 8pm Sunday 2pm Monday 2pm Week two: Dec 27 –Dec 30 Friday 2pm Saturday 2pm Sunday 2pm Monday 2pm Week three: Jan 2 –Jan 4 Thursday 2pm Friday 2pm Saturday 2pm WHERE: The Marsh San Francisco 1062 Valencia St, San Francisco TICKETS: $15 Chair Seating; $10 Floor Seating (Backjacks) Family Pack (4 Chair Seats): $50 $35 Reserved Seating Previews: $10 Chair seating; $8 Floor Seating The Book of Mormon SHN brings back last year’s smash hit touring production of the blithely irreverent musical fro another limited run. It runs through January 19 at Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market Street, San Francisco (888-746-1799) www.shnsf.com IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 19TH The Marsh presents THE JOY OF SEX, the “Best of SF Fringe” award-winning solo show from standup comedian Alicia Dattner. Using true stories from her life, Dattner outlines a recipe for disaster: take one virgin, two boyfriends, several dozen lovers, half a dysfunctional family, and one comedian. Bake 15 years, and sprinkle a pinch of polyamory. Serve hot, and voila! The result is this sizzling show about love addiction, created with help from contributing directors David Ford, Katie Rubin, and Jonathan Bender. THE OY OF SEX, a heart-wrenching, sobering, laugh-out-loud story of sex, drugs… and more sex, runs thru– January 17, 2014 (press opening December 6) at The Marsh San Francisco, 1062 Valencia Street. WHEN: THRU – January 18, 2014 Press Night: Friday, December 6 SHOWS: Thursdays: 8:00pm, Fridays: 8:00pm, Saturdays: 8:30pm (No show Thanksgiving) WHERE: The Marsh San Francisco Upstairs Studio 1062 Valencia St, San Francisco TICKETS: $20-$35 sliding scale $50/100 Reserved Seating INFO: For information or to order tickets, the public may visit www.themarsh.org or call 415-282-3055 between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 18TH Shelton Theater Presents Michael Frayn’s NOISES OFF! It runs through January 25, 2014 What: The Shelton Theater presents NOISES OFF!, Michael Frayn’s outrageous comedy that follows the on- and off-stage antics of an acting troupe as they stumble from bumbling dress rehearsal to disastrous closing night. Everything that can go wrong does, as actors desperately try to hang on to their lines, their performances, and the furniture. Add a slippery plate of sardines and many slamming doors, and you have the most hilarious backstage farce ever written. Co-directed by Lisa Drostova and Matt SheltonWhen: Closes Saturday, Jan 25, 2014 Show times: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 8PM Where: Shelton Theater, 533 Sutter Street, between Powell and Mason, San Francisco Tickets: General Admission $38 (Student/Senior/Group $26)For advanced sales go to www.sheltontheater.org or call1-800-838-3006. IT RUNS THRU JANUARY 25TH -------------------------- CLOSES TUESDAY: ------------------------- COMBINED ARTFORM PRESENTS THE OFF BROADWAY SMASH IN A SPECIAL HOLIDAY LIMITED ENGAGEMENT! SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT Written and Performed by Jeffrey Solomon 6 SHOWS ONLY! It runs thru December – 24 San Francisco…Combined Artform is thrilled to present solo performer JEFFREY SOLOMON in his Off-Broadway smash hit, SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT. SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT running thru– 24 at the Eureka Theatre in San Francisco. In rep with The Santaland Diaries. SANTA CLAUS IS COMING OUT explores the secret romantic life of the great holiday icon and the controversy that engulfs the world when the truth is revealed. When a little boy’s gender atypical gift request to the North Pole is denied, a series of heart-felt letters from the child nudge Santa Claus out of the closet and into the culture wars. A theatrical documentarian inspired by Anna Deveare Smith and the Laramie Project, Mr. Solomon purports to have interviewed, and portrays, all of the key players in the scandal that has come to be known as "Santa-Gate". Characters include little gay Gary, his confused mom and angry dad, Santa’s fake-actress wife, his Agent, his one true love, Giovanni and Mary Ellen Banfield, a conservative activist who is fighting to institute a Santa NO FLY ZONE. The play was inspired by the debate on providing gay role models to children, and the so-called “parents’ rights” movement to keep gay issues out of the classroom. Santa Claus is Coming Out will open December 19 at 8pm and run December 20 at 8pm, December 21 at 9:30pm, December 22 at 5pm, December 23 at 6pm and December 24 at 3pm. Ticket prices are $25-$35 at the door. Performing at the Eureka Theatre located at 215 Jackson St in San Francisco. No Shows December 25. Tickets are $20 - $35. Available at www.combinedartform.com and 800-838-3006 ------------------------------ CLOSES NEXT SUNDAY: --------------------------- The Marsh presents the World Premiere of THE JEWELRY BOX, a new family friendly holiday show by award-winning performer Brian Copeland (Not a Genuine Black Man, The Waiting Period, The Scion) and directed by David Ford. In this hilariously heartwarming story, a prequel to Copeland’s hit solo show Not a Genuine Black Man, a young Brian heads to the “mean streets” of Oakland to buy his mom a Christmas present. When he finds the perfect gift – a jewelry box in the White Front store – six-year-old Brian sets out to earn the required $11.97 by Christmas. Rife with references to 1970s Oakland, THE JEWELRY BOX follows Brian’s adventures as he scours the “help wanted” ads, applies for jobs, and collects bottles, inching his way toward the perfect Christmas gift. Presented as a workshop production to San Francisco audiences in December 2012, the show was an instant success, drawing larger audiences with each performance despite its under-the-radar profile. It run thru December 28, 2013 SHOWS: Thursdays: 8:00pm, Fridays: 8:00pm, Saturdays: 5:00pm WHERE: The Marsh San Francisco Main Stage 1062 Valencia St, San Francisco TICKETS: Previews: $15-$35 sliding scale Run: $25-$40 sliding scale $60/100 Reserved Seating INFO: For information or to order tickets, the public may visit www.themarsh.org or call 415-282-3055 between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. IT RUNS THRU DECEMBER 28TH The Crackpot Crones present… CRONES FOR THE HOLIDAYS: THE SEQUEL Written by & Starring Terry Baum & Carolyn Myers Directed by Joan Mankin It runs thru Dec. - 29, 2013 Sat. 3:00 & 8:00 pm (2 shows each Sat.) / Sun. 3:00 pm Limited Engagement - 9 Performances only EXIT Theatre - 156 Eddy St., SF 94102http://www.crackpotcrones.com The Crackpot Crones are back for the winter holidays, rolling out a series of vignettes, improvisations, sing alongs, and sundry subversions – and a few chestnuts from last year for Crones for the Holidays: The Sequel. The Crones, composed of Terry Baum, slightly world-renown lesbian playwright and Carolyn Myers, retired warrior princess of comedy, offer a touch of mockery and blasphemy to balance the traditional piety and purchasing that overwhelm December. Plays Sat. 3:00 & 8:00 pm (2 shows each Sat.) / Sun. 3:00 pm. Limited Engagement - 9 Performances only. Tickets $15 advance / $20 at the door - gen. admission and are available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/465273 For more info call 415- 206-1951. http://www.crackpotcrones.com IT RUNS THRU DECEMBER 29TH ------------------------ CLOSES TODAY: ------------------------ U.S. Premiere of My Beautiful Laundrette by Hanif Kureishi, adapted by Andy Graham and Roger Parsley — New Conservatory Theatre Center is proud to present the U.S. Premiere of My Beautiful Laundrette by Hanif Kureishi, adapted by Andy Gram and Roger Parsley, and directed by Andrew Nance. The show will run thru – December 22, 2013 and will take place at New Conservatory Theatre Center (Walker Theatre); Wednesday – Saturday at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm. Pay-What-You-Wish Night is November 14, 2013 at 8pm. Tickets are $25 - $45 and are available at nctcsf.org. Opening Night will be Saturday, November 16th at 8pm. It’s 1985 in Margaret Thatcher’s England and Omar, a Pakistani teenager, persuades his white boyhood friend, Johnny, to help him run a decaying laundrette, a task given to him by his wealthy uncle. In spite of Omar’s suspicious and Mafia-like family, and the ever-present menace of Johnny’s vicious fascist friends, Omar and Johnny become lovers and turn the laundrette’s fortunes around. Adapted from the acclaimed film by the writers who brought you Maurice at NCTC, this story about two kinds of outsiders who find hope in each other is comic, sexy, brutal, tender, and not to be missed. Starring Javi Harnly, Cat Luedtke, Radhika Rao, Daniel Redmond, Robert Rushin, Keith Stevenson WHERE: New Conservatory Theatre Center Walker Theatre, 25 Van Ness Ave @Market, San Francisco, CA 94102 WHEN: thru – December 22, 2013 Wednesday – Sat at 8pm Sundays at 2pm COST: $25-$45 TICKETS AND BOX OFFICE: 415-861-8972, boxoffice@nctcsf.org IT RUNS THRU DECEMBER 22ND REVIEW IS UP ON REGIONAL JACOB MARLEY’S CHRISTMAS CAROL \| Perfect for the whole family By Tom Mula \| Directed by Jon Tracy Featuring Khris Lewin (A Steady Rain), Rami Margron (debut), Nicholas Pelczar (The Whipping Man) and Stacy Ross (God of Carnage) EXTENDED! Eight additional shows added. Runs through December 22! Perfect for the whole family, this festive ghost story opens as does Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, with Old Marley dead (“as a door-nail”). However, the focus never leaves his chained and burdened soul, remaining in the ethereal planes of the afterlife.Given just 24 hours to redeem himself, Jacob Marley scrambles to reform his former partner in greed – that “squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner” Ebenezer Scrooge. Marin Theatre Company, 397 Miller Ave. Mill Valley (415) 388-5208 www.marintheatre.org IT CLOSES DECEMBER 22ND REVIEW IS UP ON SF REGIONAL It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, adapted by Joe Landry from the screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra and Jo Swerling; presented by San Jose Stage Company, 490 South First Street, San Jose; through December 22. Tickets $25 - $50, available at www.thestage.org or at 408-283-7142. IT RUNS THRU DECEMBER 22ND REVIEW IS UP ON SF REGIONAL Coney Island Christmas by Donald Margulies, presented in its Bay Area premiere by City Lights Theater Company, 529 S. Second Street, San Jose; through December 22. Tickets $17 - $32; available at www.cltc.org or at 408-295-4200 IT CLOSES DECEMBER 22ND REVIEW IS UP ON SF REGIONAL. Revisit an iconic holiday classic with It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. The whole family will enjoy witnessing this beloved story come to life as a captivating live 1940s radio broadcast. Run Dates: It runs thru– December 22, 2013 Previews: Shows: Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm Sunday at 2:00 pm Location: The Stage, 490 South First Street, San Jose, CA Tickets: $25 - $50 with discounts for seniors, students and groups Box Office: 408.283.7142 or www.thestage.org Author: Joe Landr From the screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra and Jo Swerling Director: Randall King Featuring: Kevin Blackton, Judith Miller, Allison F. Rich, Martin Rojas Dietrich, Will Springhorn Jr. and Halsey Varady * IT RUNS THRU DECEMBER 22 REVIEW IS UP ON SF REGIONAL Kirsten Brandt and Haddon Kime’s stunning new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic coming-of-age fairy tale, The Snow Queen, makes it world premiere November 27 through December 22. Broadway performers Jane Pfitsch (SNOW QUEEN), Eryn Murman (GERDA), and Rhett George (TROLL/RIVER/ PRINCE/ REINDEER/SNOWFLAKE) join Tim Homsley (KAI) and a talented company of actors and musicians to bring this new musical to life - proving this isn’t your average bedtime story. The book is adapted by Kirsten Brandt, San Jose Rep’s Associate Artistic Director and Rick Lombardo, San Jose Rep’s Producing Artistic Director, with original music by composer Haddon Kime, and Rick Lombardo. The production is directed by Rick Lombardo..The fantastical adventure follows Gerda through an unimaginably dangerous and whimsical world with singing flowers, a chattering crow and a talking river to save her friend, Kai. Bucking the norm for holiday theatre, this world premiere sidesteps the damsel in distress paradigm, with a triumphant tale to warm the hearts of holiday audiences, without the predictable tropes that have aggravated many progressive parents for years. The sensational score and urban steam punk flair turn this 150-year-old fairy tale into an epic quest. TICKETS start at $34. Family Packs are $150 and are available only by calling 408-367-7255. NEW THIS YEAR: 30 and Under Pricing. All tickets for individuals 30 years old or younger are 50% off the regular ticket price. Full-time students also receive 50% off each regular price ticket. Tickets can be purchased at www.SJRep.com, by calling 408-367-7255, or at the Box Office located at 101 Paseo de San Antonio in downtown San Jose. REVIEW IS UP ON SF REGIONAL The Christmas Revels. 28th Annual edition of a Bay Area favorite, the vibrant musical production to welcome in the Holiday Season. This season’s Revels, “The Spirits of Haddon Hall,” takes place at the English country estate of Haddon Hall after The Great War. The Lord and Lady of the stately manor can no longer afford the cost of upkeep and the staff necessary to run it. As they make plans to sell their ancient home, the ghosts of past generations appear to celebrate the winter solstice one more time. Can they convince the current owners to find a way to remain in the Hall, or will this be their final Yuletide at Haddon? Features a cast of 65, with period songs and dances, comedy, gorgeous costumes, and stories from many traditions to celebrate the Winter Solstice. Directed by David Parr; Musical Direction by Fred Goff. December 20-22 at the Scottish Rite Theatre, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland, CA. Fridays at 8:00 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., Tickets $20-$55. Youth and senior discounts available. www.californiarevels.org or (510) 452-8800. IT CLOSES DECEMBE 22ND Cinderella. San Francisco’s African-American Shakespeare Company presents an enchanting production of this timeless tale, brought to whimsical, magical life in time for the holiday season, featuring all the pageantry, hilarity, and charm of the original, but with a soulful twist. This heartwarming story finds Cinderella, a young, beautiful dreamer, toiling away as a lowly scullery maid for her evil stepmother and (oddly masculine) stepsisters. With a little bit of magic, Cinderella finds her Prince Charming and learns that anything is possible, even miracles. Directed by African-American Shakespeare Company’s Artistic Director, L. Peter Callender, with original music and lyrics by Angel Burgess, Robert Michael, and Taylor Peckham. , Runs Dec., 21 at 8:00 p.m.; Dec 21, 22 at 3:00 pm. Buriel Clay Theater at the African American Art & Culture Complex 762 Fulton Street (at Webster), San Francisco. 800-838-3006, www.African-AmericanShakes.org The Golden Girls: The Christmas Episodes 2013 returns to San Francisco for a limited engagement of 12 performances only of ALL NEW Episodes! Opening Night Benefit Info - Thurs. Dec. 5, 2013 AIDS Housing Alliance/SF believes in a world where all people have a safe, decent and affordable home. Toward that vision they prevent homelessness for people with HIV/AIDS by protecting the housing they already have, providing resources to secure new housing, and promoting public policy to expand opportunity for all. Their goal is to become the largest housing services provider and largest employer of people with HIV/AIDS in San Francisco. For each ticket sold for opening night 12/5/13, a $5.00 donation will be made to AIDS Housing Alliance/SF. http://www.ahasf.org/ There will be a different celebrity guest each night for the first week only. Dec. 5 - 7, 2013 Thurs. Dec. 5, 2013 – 8:00 pm Donna Sachet – SF’s Drag Hostess with the Mostess! Fri. Dec. 6, 2013 – 8:00 pm Fernando & Greg – Radio Hosts - Morning Show Radio 99.7 Now Sat. Dec. 7, 2013 – 8:00 pm Sister Roma – "The Most Photographed Nun In The World" WHEN: Dec. 5 - 22, 2012 - Thurs. Fri. & Sat. at 8:00 pm / Sun. at 7:00 pm Performance dates are Dec. / 19, 20, 21, 22. TIX: Tickets are $30 available at http://goldengirlssf.eventbrite.com/ VENUE: The Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th St. (btwn. Mission & Capp Sts.) SF, CA 94103 WEB PAGE: www.trannyshack.com YOUTUBE CLIPS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH0pd3q6pNU\ Spreckels Theatre Company presents... "Scrooge - The Musical" Book, Music and Lyrics by Leslie Bricusse Based on the 1970 film featuring Albert Finney . Spreckels Theatre Company in Rohnert Park, Ca. presents "Scrooge The Musical." Based on Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," this seasonal show is a delightful musical adaptation from the 1970's film featuring Albert Finney as Scrooge. The classic tale is modernized with Spreckels Theatre Company's new Paradyne projection system with special effects and holiday magic surrounding the audience in the Bette Condiotti Theatre. Prepare for a wild holiday ride in this black box theater when this technically enhanced production combines a theatrical musical with an "E-Ticket" experience, making this "Scrooge -The Musical" the perfect holiday experience for all ages. This Spreckels Theatre Company production features the new Paradyne projection system, developed by Spreckels Performing Arts Center, combining still images and animations to create multiple backdrop effects. Directed by Gene Abravaya Music Direction by Cynthia Heath Choreography by Michella Snider Costume Design by Pamela Enz WHEN: It runs thru Dec. 22, 2013 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. TICKETS: $22 to $26 $26 General; $24 Senior/Youth; $22 Children 12 and under ORDER TICKETS ONLINE: http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=36249&schedule=list PHONE: 707-588-3400 For tickets, call the Spreckels Box Office at 707 588-3400. Box Office hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 12 to 5 p.m. and one hour before showtime. WHERE: Spreckels Performing Arts Center, Bette Condiotti Theatre 5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park, CA 94928 WEBSITE: www.spreckelsonline.comI IT RUNS THRU DECEMEMBER 22NDS Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble Presents: THE BIGGEST GIFT Original Music by Florence Denison Director: Scott Denison Music Director: Michael Wiles Costumer: Nancyj Moran Featuring: Kerri Shawn, Joel Roster, Marcus Klinger, Amanda Denison, and Jessica Fisher December 19, 20, 21, & 22 2013 Lesher Center for the Arts Margaret Lesher Theatre 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Acclaimed Local Family Friendly Theatre Company Presents Annual Christmas Show! Walnut Creek based Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble is pleased to present the second show in it’s 41st season, the annual Christmas favorite THE BIGGEST GIFT. Did you send your letter to Santa? Then why has he not received it? No letters - No Christmas. Join the fun and laughter as Tucker the elf and the toys set out to save Christmas. This is an original family friendly musical that encourages audience participation from all ages which provides an exciting live theatre experience you and your children will never forget. THE BIGGEST GIFT Thursday December 19, 2013 at 11:30am Friday December 20, 2013 at 9:30am, 11:00am, & 6:30pm Saturday December 21, 2013 at 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, & 4:00pmSunday December 22, 2013 at 11:00am, & 1:00pm Tickets are $14, available at 925-943-SHOW(7469), or via the web at www.leshercenter.org, or in person at the Lesher Center for the Arts Ticket Office located at 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94596 or Ticket Office Outlet located in Barnes & Noble in Walnut Creek. Discounted Group Tickets are also available please contact Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble at 925-934-2133 IT CLOSES ON DECEMBER 22ND AURORA THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS “A SWELL NOËL” December17-22, 2013 Craig Jessup Celebrates Noël Coward & Friends in a Special Holiday Engagement at Harry’s UpStage – Aurora Theatre Company presents Bay Area cabaret star Craig Jessup in concert with A SWELL NOËL. This special holiday engagement plays for six performances only, December 17-22, at Aurora Theatre Company’s intimate second stage cabaret performance space, Harry’s UpStage, located in the Nell and Jules Dashow Wing at the Aurora Theatre in Berkeley. Tickets ($23-32) may be purchased directly from the Aurora Theatre Company box office by calling (510) 843-4822 or online at auroratheatre.org. Celebrating the season with masterful music-making, blithe spirit, and hilarious wit, Craig Jessup (last seen at the Aurora in Mae West’s SEX) performs favorites from his wide-ranging career in cabaret and musical theater, along with classic holiday tunes, and original songs. A SWELL NOËL features selections by some of the world’s greatest composers, including Noël Coward, Jacques Brel, Stephen Sondheim, the Gershwins, and Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. From romance to comedy, Jessup and pianist/music director Ken Muir make the season a little merrier with songs including “If Love Were All,” “Our Love Is Here to Stay,” “This Can’t Be Love” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” A SWELL NOËL brightens the holidays with a memorable musical showcase that is sure to delight cabaret fans old and new. HE CLOSES ON DECEMBER 22ND ------------------------------------------ SAN FRANCISCO CABARET SCENE: --------------------------------------- SOCIETY CABARET AT HOTEL REX 562 Sutter Street, San Francisco PHONE NUMBER 415-857-1896 Sunday, December 22nd, 2013 G. Scott Lacy's HOLIDAY CABARET - 2:00pm Saturday, January 4th, 2014 CABARET SHOWCASE! - 8:00p Price: $20 General AdmissionCome and hear San Francisco's up and coming hot new cabaret talent! Four exciting performers dazzle you with their wonderful songs and stories. With G. Scott Lacy at the piano. Sunday, January 5th, 2014 BROADWAY BRUNCH! - 2:00pmCome and hear your favorite Broadway showtunes sung by some of San Francisco's most talented performers. Enjoy a wonderful brunch, champagne and amazing music. Friday, January 10th, 2014 SHEELAGH MURPHY - 8:00pm San Francisco's 2013 WINNER of BEST CABARET PERFORMER brings her new exciting show to Society Cabaret. Saturday, January 11th, 2014 PAMELA JOYStrange Bedfellows: The music and unlikely friendship of Cole Porter and Irving Berlin - 8:00pm Irving Berlin was a dirt-poor Russian Jewish emigrant with no formal education. Cole Porter was the Ivy League–educated scion of a wealthy WASP family. And yet, the two men became the best of friends. Pamela Joy and the Mike Greensill Trio will explore the one thing the two songwriters had in common: a wealth of original, witty, moving music that has stood the test of time. Starring Pamela Joy and the Mike Greensill Trio Linda Kosut presents: Easy Come, Easy Go, the Music of Johnny Green WHEN: Friday, January 17th 8 PM, and Saturday January 18th at 8 PM WHERE: Society Cabaret at the Hotel Rex, 562 Sutter St., San Francisco TICKETS: $20 general admission, $45 priority seating. PHONE: (415) 857 1896 or online from Ticketmaster WEBSITE: www.lindakosut.com --- Award winning jazz and cabaret singer Linda Kosut is presenting “Easy Come, Easy Go, the Music of Johnny Green” a musical tribute to the life, legacy and spirit of composer Johnny Green, at Society Cabaret at the Hotel Rex, 562 Sutter St. SF, on January 17 and 18, 2014. “Easy Come, Easy Go” introduces the music and spirit of the songwriter, composer, arranger and conductor that Green was. He won five Oscars and was nominated for 14 for his musical scores for movies, and his 1930 composition, “Body and Soul,” is still number one on Jazz Standard charts 83 years later. Linda Kosut’s skill with lyrics makes her the perfect person to interpret the songs of Johnny Green and she has received encouragement from his daughter and his collaborators for her versions of his songs. Her CD of Johnny Green’s songs will be released in the spring. Friday, January 24th, 2014 JASON BROCK "All That Jazz" Starring Jason Brock - 8:00pm You've seen Jason before: as a finalist on the X-Factor with Simon Cowell, in musicals like "Hedwig & the Angry Inch" and performing at cabaret clubs around the country. However, you've never seen Jason performing just jazz. Well, Jason's doing that in his new show, "All That Jazz." He'll sing standards from the Great American Songbook like "Misty" and some of his favorite tunes like "Bein' Green" & He'll also sing up tempo hits from musicals like "Old Devil Moon" and "My Favorite Things." With Jason's unique voice that Epic Records CEO, LA Reid, called "a songwriter's best friend," you are guaranteed to enjoy this show. Plus, on piano will be the talented Dee Spencer, Head of Music & Dance at SF State University and founder of the jazz program there. Don't miss this unique performance. Jason Brock is a television, film and stage star. He was recently seen in homes all over the world as a finalist on X-Factor singing songs like "New York State of Mind." Jason also starred in the film, "Love is not Enough," which played at world-wide film festivals, including the Frameline and Melbourne film festivals. Jason has played Hedwig in "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" at the Boxcar Theatre and a demented flower girl in Taylor Mac's "The Lily's Revenge" at Magic Theatre. Jason began his San Francisco career singing jazz, pop and R&B tunes at Martuni's Piano Bar. You can find his latest single, "You've Got the Love," on iTunes and Amazon. Saturday, January 25th, 2014 BARRY LLOYD - 8:00pm -------------------------------------------------------------- Yoshi's San Francisco Live Music & Restaurant 1330 Fillmore Street San Francisco,CA 94115 For tickets and more info: 415.655.5600 or Show Tickets For dinner reservations: 415.655.5600 or Dinner Reservations LOCALS DISCOUNT: Enter promo code 94115 for 20% select shows for locals only. Limit (4) tickets per purchase. Must show ID with 94115 home zip code, when you pick up tickets at the box office. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEINSTEIN’S AT THE NIKKO LINEUP FOR DECEMBER 2013 TONY AWARD WINNER BETTY BUCKLEY BRINGS HER ACCLAIMED SHOW, “THE VIXENS OF BROADWAY,” TO FEINSTEIN’S AT THE NIKKO 8 PERFORMANCES ONLY! DECEMBER 5 – 15, 2013 WELL STRUNG • “THE SINGING STRING QUARTET Friday, December 27 at 8 p.m. Saturday, December 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets: $25-$40 Well-Strung: the Singing String Quartet. Called the “hottest thing with a bow since Jennifer Lawrence in The Hunger Games” by the New York Daily News, Well-Strung will make their San Francisco debut off of two recent hit Off-Broadway productions and a new album release this spring on Twist Records. The group's show features music of Mozart, Vivaldi and Bach new arrangements of songs by Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Adele, Lady Gaga and among others. This September, the foursome will make their debut on London’s West End at the Leister Square Theater with Varla Jean Merman. Conceived by Christopher Marchant and Mark Cortale, Well-Strung stars Edmund Bagnell, Christopher Marchant, Daniel Shevlin and Trevor Wadleigh. The show is directed by Broadway veteran Donna Drake (A Chorus Line). For more info visit www.well-strung.com-

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