Performances for “1776” run through July 9^th and are Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 PM, Saturday at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and Sunday at 5:00 PM. The Rehearsal Shed is open before, during, and after the show for refreshments. Also, after the mainstage production, patrons can be entertained by the free cabaret-style show while enjoying the wings and nachos available in the shed!

 

The Barn Theatre is located on M-96, west of Augusta.  Tickets are $29.00 for all performances and Visa and MasterCard are accepted.  Group prices available. The box office is open daily from 10:00 am-10:00 pm. For tickets or more information please call (269) 731-4121. 

 

             

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Cast Bios

SCOTT BURKELL - John Adams

Scott comes back for a 24th summer after another eventful year in New York.  Scott and Barnie Paul Loesel’s brand-new musical treatment of Mark Dunn’s popular novel ELLA MINNOW PEA just had a major reading this spring and over the winter Scott staged Barnie Marin Mazzie’s solo cabaret show at Feinstein’s Supper Club.  Burkell/Loesel songs have become increasingly in-demand by such B’way performers as Rebecca Luker, Susan Egan, Kristin Chenoweth, and Marin Mazzie, who recorded two selections with husband and fellow actor Jason Daniely for their recently released “Opposite You” album.  Scott played in both the Broadway and First National Tour companies of TITANIC.  Here in Augusta, his career has been unforgettable.  Some faves include Molina in KISS OF THE SPIDERWOMAN, Georg (opposite Marin Mazzie) in SHE LOVES ME, Felix in THE ODD COUPLE, Seymour in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, and perhaps his all-time gem, Riff-Raff in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (including last-season’s closing production).  Also last year Scott acted in LI’L ABNER (Marryin’ Sam), THE GRADUATE, HAIR, THE FULL MONTY (Malcolm), and directed our hit revival of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF.  Visit www.scottburkell.net

 

JOHN NEWTON - Ben Franklin

John is delighted to be back at the Barn after a five year absence.  Barn audiences will undoubtedly remember his wonderful portrayals in our 2001 season most notably Sheriff Bedford in OLD TIMER and Fagin in OLIVER!.  John first arrived in Augusta in 1954 with his wife, Dusty, and infant son, Robin.  Over the next five years, he performed in over 50 consecutive shows and added another son, John.  During the 1995 season John gave a cameo appearance with Angelo Mango and Louis Girard one evening during he run of PURE AS THE DRIVEN SNOW to the delight of the audience.  John has quite an impressive New York resume having performed in 13 Broadway shows, with the most recent being FORTUNES FOOL.  Others include RING ‘ROUND THE MOON, IVANOV and ABE LINCOLN IN ILLINOIS for the Lincoln Center Theatre, as well as HAMLET (as the gravedigger), PRESENT LAUGHTER with George C. Scott, and  FIRST MONDAY IN OCTOBER with Henry Fonda and Jane Alexander. Mr. Newton also spent two happy years in residence doing THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS with his son Robin and other Barnies on Broadway.  Regionally he has done many shows in Florida for the Florida Stage and Florida Repertory Company. John has also done scores of TV shows, most recently LAW AND ORDER, where he was seen as Judge Eric Coffey.

 

JAMEY GRISHAM – Thomas Jefferson

Jamey hails from Tupelo, MS, and is currently a senior at Roosevelt University in Chicago, majoring in musical theatre at their Chicago College of Performing Arts Theatre Conservatory.  Jamey’s excited for a second Barn summer.  Last season audiences may remember his turns as Brad in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW and Ethan in THE FULL MONTY.  He also appeared in HAIR, LI’L ABNER, and THE GRADUATE.  At Roosevelt his credits include Bill in KISS ME KATE and Valentine in the musical TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA.  He shared the  stage with cabaret star Andrea Marcovicci in the ASCAP presentation SONGS OF OUR TIME in Chicago and was a featured singer at Jim Caruso’s CAST PARTY in New York.  Jamey sends love and special thanks to his family for their unconditional support. “Psalms 108:1”

 

ERIC PARKER - Edward Rutledge

Eric comes home for a 14^th Augusta summer after another busy season in Chicago.  His growing list of Barn credits includes several favorites: Jerry in THE FULL MONTY last summer, Rocky and Eddie in seven go-‘rounds of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, Cousin Kevin in TOMMY, Freddie in CHESS, Cable in SOUTH PACIFIC, the title role in PIPPIN, Pharaoh in JOSEPH…, Jinx in FOREVER PLAID, Jimmy Powers in CITY OF ANGELS, Judas in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, Remnar in ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT, and Che in EVITA, a role that introduced Eric to Chicago audiences in an award-winning production at Drury Lane Oakbrook.  His career has continued there with several roles in their dinner theatre and TYA productions, most recently Jacey Squires in THE MUSIC MAN, ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, Samuel in THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE, and Fezziwig in A CHRISTMAS CAROL this past winter.  Regional: THE THING ABOUT MEN (Sebastian), A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC (Henrik), A FUNNY THING…FORUM (Miles), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Rocky), JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Jesus), and HAIR (Claude-European Tour).  TV: GUIDING LIGHT.  Eric’s an Adrian native now living in Chicago.  On our off-stage staff Eric helps oversee the maintenance of the physical plant and also moves up a notch artistically this summer by directing our popular Bar Shows.

 

ROY BROWN – John Hancock

Roy is very pleased to be returning to the Barn for his first season as an Equity resident.  He’s gained quite a following locally for a series of wonderful performances during his apprenticeship: Renfield in DRACULA, Stewpot in SOUTH PACIFIC, Reuben in our ’99 JOSEPH…, Lefou in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Mrs. Taylor in BAT BOY, Smudge in FOREVER PLAID, and most famously, Da Jimmer in our hit productions of ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT in ’03 and ’04.  Roy’s professional experience includes a role in the Theatreworks USA 2004-05 National Tour of FREEDOM TRAIN and an independent film (working title: SUMMER DAZE) currently in post-production.   A native of Hastings and a veteran of major roles for all the prominent local civic theatres, Roy calls New York City home.  In addition to his acting load Roy is responsible for maintaining the beautiful grounds here at the Barn.

 

AMBER REES – Abigail Adams

Amber will be a senior musical theatre major at Ball State University this fall and is delighted to be working at the Barn for her first summer.  Her most recent role at school is Sally Bowles in CABARET.  Other credits include WORKING, ANYTHING GOES, and THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS.  In 2004 Amber made her professional debut in CINDERELLA at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.  She was born and raised in Marion, IN.  Amber thanks her family and friends for their constant support.

 

 

COURTNEY REED – Martha Jefferson

Courtney is excited to start her first summer at the Barn.  A native of Centreville, VA, Courtney starts her senior year this fall at Wright State University in Dayton, OH.  Her college credits include Texas in CABARET, Hymen in AS YOU LIKE IT, Sleeping Beauty in INTO THE WOODS, RAGTIME, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, NINE, A TUNA CHRISTMAS, Arts Gala 2004-06, Dance Concert 2005-06, and Student Cabaret 2004-05.  Other favorite roles include Tiger Lily in PETER PAN, Winnifred in ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, Peppermint Patty in SNOOPY, and Maggie in DANCING AT LUGHNASA.  Courtney has also performed in and around Beijing, China in 2002 and 2005 with Encore Theatrical Arts Project Inc. in a song and dance review.  She would like to thank God, her family, and her friends.

 

HOWARD McBRIDE – Samuel Chase

In his 25 Augusta summers, Howard has given audiences a series of wonderful performances of the type known in the old days as “first business”.  A few of his favorite roles are Jacob in JOSEPH…, Max in THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Dr. Scott in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, Herr Schultz in CABARET, and the Old Actor in THE FANTASTICKS.  He has stage managed tours of A CHORUS LINE, MAN OF LA MANCHA, and JANE POWELL: INSIDE OUT as well as three years with the Staten Island Civic in New York.  With us, Howard also lends his unique charms to his offstage role of General Manager.

 

ANDY PLANCK – Richard Henry Lee

Andy is thrilled to be back at the Barn for his second season.  Since last year, Andy made his move to New York City, where he was cast as Pedro (the head muleteer) and the Captain of the Inquisition in a national tour of MAN OF LA MANCHA.  The 8 month tour begins in early October in Anchorage, AK, and in addition to his two roles Andy will understudy the Innkeeper as well as Don Quixote.  Barn credits include the Narrator in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, Teddy Slaughter in THE FULL MONTY, Hairless Joe in LI’L ABNER, and Avram in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF.  A Ball State University graduate, Andy’s college resume includes BAT BOY, ANYTHING GOES, A FLEA IN HER EAR, THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS, THE BOYFRIEND, and WEST SIDE STORY.  Andy thanks the Ragotzys for bringing him back and M, D, G, T, A, AA, S, J, D, and B for “always being there- love you guys”. Visit www.andyplanck.com.

 

 

JERRY McALLISTER - Caesar Rodney

Jerry is very familiar with Barn productions in that he is in his second season as our Stage Manager – but this season marks his onstage debut with this production!  He’s worked as an actor, stage manager, director, and designer all over the country.  He was a stage manager for TheatreworksUSA for five seasons, director for the first five seasons of NYC’s Shakespeare in the Park(ing Lot), resident lighting designer/production manager/technical director for Expanded Arts (NY) from 1995-2000, actor in ELLIS ISLAND STORIES in the theatre on Ellis Island (1995), touring actor/director for Missoula Children’s Theatre Workshop (CA) from 1991-93, and resident actor at Western Stage (CA) from 1988-90.  In 1999 Jerry directed MUSHKIN’S PARADISE at the Theatre at St. Clement’s (Off-B’way).  Jerry is also Executive Director of Hope Theatre Co. (NY) which he founded with his sister and brother (’90 Barnie Kelly McAllister) and which produced the American professional premiere of Shakespeare’s EDWARD III Off-Broadway in 2001.  The Hope Theatre has also been presenting shows at the NY International Fringe Festival for the past 5 years.  As a playwright Jerry’s adaptations of several literary classics have seen production and of his original works, CURIOUS GEORGE THE BEATNIK MONKEY got an Off-Off-Broadway production.  Several of his solo pieces were produced at CA’s Western Stage.  Jerry thanks the Ragotzys for the opportunity and sends props to the Justice League and his fellow Von Doomers.

 

GREGG REHRIG – Stephen Hopkins

Gregg has worked at the Barn in several capacities: Stage Manager, Box Office Manager, and Actor.  Last season he was seen on the Barn stage as either clergy (Rabbi in FIDDLER…, the priest in THE GRADUATE), or scientist (Professor Finsdale in LI’L ABNER, Dr. Scott in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW).  Following last season Gregg flew to Hawaii to consult (and design/run sound) for the Kona premiere of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW.  He has been privileged to work with Broadway actors Melissa Errico, Randy Graff, JoAnne Worley, Mark Jacoby, Frenchie Davis, and of course Tom Wopat.  His last stage management assignment was with A CHORUS LINE’s original Maggie, Kay Cole.  Gregg has worked for such companies as American Musical Theatre-San Jose, American Conservatory Theatre, the San Francisco Symphony, and the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival.  Offstage Gregg works as Group Counselor with the Santa Clara County Probation Department’s Work Furlough Program.  His work with adult inmates has earned Gregg the nickname “Trenchcoat” (among others).  Gregg created and maintains a two year old program providing toys and clothing for the children of inmates in the Santa Clara judicial system.

 

RANDY WOLFE - Dr. Josiah Bartlett

The Barn is pleased to have Randy join the company for 1776.  The last time Randy performed here was in our 2000 production of MY FAIR LADY.  Randy graduated from The Goodman School of Drama in Chicago where he performed in numerous productions in the Chicago area.  Recently Randy has been teaching “The Actor’s Studio Theatre Project” in Kalamazoo – a successful actor training 12-week program that he created, now it its second year.  A successful director as well, he recently directed the critically acclaimed productions of HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH and two productions of PSYCHO BEACH PARTY at the Whole Art Theatre, and ZOMBIE PROM at the Parish Theatre.  Next season he will be directing REEFER MADNESS – THE MUSICAL and DIE MOMMY DIE at the Whole Art Theatre and will perform in the one person show I AM MY OWN WIFE which will open the 2006-2007 season.  Randy also appeared in BUG, HAMLET, and MISERY locally. Randy would like to thank Brendan and Penelope and the entire Barn family for the opportunity and the warm welcome.

 

CALENDAR NEWS:                                      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 16, 2006      

 

NOW PLAYING:  What’s the summer without a patriotic celebration on and around the 4^th of July?  Opening June 27 and playing through July 9 is the lively musical “1776.” It's the summer of “1776” and the nation is ready to declare independence…if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! America’s Prize Winning Musical recreates the momentous days between May 8 and July 4 when the second Continental Congress created and signed the Declaration of Independence.  Bring the kids to this beautifully explored lesson of American history – “1776” puts a human face on the pages of history as we see the men behind the national icons. 

NEXT:  Bringing back the tradition of farces at the Barn Theatre, OUT OF ORDER takes the Barn stage July 11 – 23. Back by popular demand, this summer will mark the Barn’s third go ‘round with this dizzying comedy.  This madcap romp explores what would happen if a British member of Parliament was found in a compromising situation with the secretary of a member of the opposition and a body was discovered in the window!  Starring Joe Aiello, Scott Burkell and Penelope Alex, tensions build when wives, husbands, the hotel manager and an altogether too-greedy waiter show up!

COMING SOON: July 25 – August 6, four-time Emmy award-winning actress Kim Zimmer from TV’s Guiding Light will seize the Barn stage as Mama Rose in the legendary musical GYPSY. Based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, a famous burlesque stripper, GYPSY tells the story of Rose, an overbearing stage mother who is determined to break into the big time by pushing the vaudeville career of her younger daughter June. After June escapes her mother’s hold, Rose turns all her attention to her other daughter Louise. Eventually Rose's dreams come to fruition when she successfully transforms Louise into the famous burlesque stripper Gypsy Rose Lee.

The Barn Theatre                  Located on M-96 1 mile west of the village of Augusta.

Box Office Phone                   269 731-4121 Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

 

Performance times                 Tuesday through Friday at 8:30pm

                                                Saturday (2 shows) 6:00pm & 9:00 pm

                                                Sunday 5:00pm (8:30 Added performance, if applicable)

 

Ticket Prices                          $29.00 Each.  Any day, any performance.

 

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

Group rates available (10 tickets or more)

Professional Equity resident summer theatre.  Our 61^st season

Listed on the Michigan Register of Historic Sites – Free and easy parking

Air-conditioned Theatre and Restrooms handicapped accessible.

 

Enjoy refreshments and a light snack in the Rehearsal Shed Lounge with friends before, during intermission and after the show. WINGS AND NACHOS in the Rehearsal Shed!  Free cabaret-style entertainment follows main stage performances.

Brendan Ragotzy, Producer.