Riant ! Riant! Arts and Entertainmnet (Riant TV - RTV)

Song: IF I FOLLOW MY DREAMS (NO MORE GAMES) Music & Lyrics by Van Dirk Fisher on YouTube

2011-12-28T13:28:00.007-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cF1GVDKhZvM. The song IF I FOLLOW MY DREAMS (NO MORE GAMES) Music, Lyrics & Vocal Arrangements by Van Dirk Fisher and Featuring Joseff Goodwin & Bianca M. Gonzalez, is a celebration for anyone who has been lucky enough to have found that special love that's unconditional with NO MORE GAMES. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have in writing it.

You can download the song (mp3) at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/joseffgoodwinbiancagoodw

Script Submissions for the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Deadline October 30th

2011-10-25T14:16:00.000-04:00

Submissions for the Strawberry One-Act Festival are now being accepted. Seeking One-Act Plays running between 15 - 30 minutes. The deadline is October 30th. To download an application click here. Prize for Best Play is $1,500.00.

Auditions for Singers & Hip Hop Dancers for 2 Music Videos & Film

2011-10-25T14:10:00.002-04:00

Singers & Hip Hop Dancers wanted for the Riant Theatre's 2 Music Video Projects and Film

The Riant Theatre is seeking Singers and Hip Hop Dancers for 2 music video projects & film. Singers must be comfortable singing R&B and Pop. Please prepare 1 song to be sung a cappello. Dancers will be asked to dance freestyle to music provided by us. Please email your picture and resume to obtain an audition appointment. RiantTheatre@gmail.com. You may also include a link with you singing or dancing on YouTube, etc. No pay. Non-Union. A dvd will be provided for participants when the music video is done.

Auditions will be held at 419 Lafayette Street, 2nd Floor. Between Astor Place & East 4th Street. Trains: #6 to Astor Place, R Train to 8th Street.

Depending on which project you are selected for the dates of filming are:

Sunday, October 30th, Sunday, November 6th and Wednesday and November 9th.

New Dimensions and Horizons: The Strawberry One-Act Festival Like You've Never Seen Before

2011-09-29T16:58:00.000-04:00

By Van Dirk Fisher

Every time I begin to work on the Strawberry One-Act Festival I ask myself, “What can I do to make it better and provide more exposure for the playwrights, directors and actors?” This year I was inspired by one of our alumni, Phil Reissman, who invited me to see a screening of his play that was once in the festival. Well I had to attend. I was honored to be invited and very proud of his accomplishment. It was not too long after that that my wheels started turning. I’ve always wanted to present the festival on television as a reality show and allow our viewers to see the process that the artists go through to produce their play for the festival. In the past we’ve streamed the plays online for viewers to watch them online and cast their votes and the response was tremendous, but the time element of videotaping them and getting them online on time was challenging. So I’ve decided on a new approach and The Video Diaries Project was born.

Ten filmmakers were selected to participate in the project. Each was allowed to choose the play that they wanted to film and create their documentary. The artists were told to treat the project as a personal diary and to talk about the process they go through to develop their plays. It’s meant to be raw, up close and personal. In the end the filmmaker gets to tell the story from their observation and the end results is something remarkable. I’m very proud of them and welcome any and all attention that can be bestowed on them for having the courage to dream and the will and the tenacity to pursue it.

I’ve always said that all the playwrights are winners by virtue of being selected for the festival. The process of working on their plays, the lessons they learn along the way and the contacts they make with other artists are the real prize. The experience is priceless and the memories I hope they cherish them as fondly as I do.

The Video Diaries Project had a screening at the Tribeca Grand Hotel and at the Time Warner Corporate Head Quarters in NYC. Six of the best films were presented during the festival and an award and cash prize of $500 was presented to the Best Short Film of the Season, ELLEN’S DIARY by Brian Torres. Click here to watch the film. The award was presented on Sunday, August 7^th at 2pm along with the awards for Best Play, UNEXPECTED COMPANY by Wendy Mae Shelton, who received $1,500 and a development deal to have a full length play produced by the Riant Theatre, Best Director, ROB DRAKE (photo right) for Wait And See What Happens by Alison Costello, Best Actor, DENNIS BRITO for Paid Off by Robert D. Argen, Best Actress, BELLE CAPLIS for Unexpected Company by Wendy Mae Shelton.

Jane Rubinsky (photo right with playwright Arlene Corsano) joined the Riant Theatre this past summer as a contributing writer for The Riant Theatre Review, which featured articles about the artists in the festival. The festival was presented at the Hudson Guild Theatre and we were blessed with plays submitted from as far away as Australia (The Flowers Don’t Grow Here Anymore by Josie Parrelli) to Utah (Horst and Graben at the Chateau Godot by Jeffrey Gold); to Vermont (The Oasis by Andrew Fridae); to Connecticut (The Prenup by Charles Gershman); to San Francisco (Love For Beginners by Cesar Abella); to Maryland (Butterfly by Trish Cole); and finally to New York (Paid Off by Robert D. Argen). There was a wide array of topics addressed in the festival plays. Our next festival will be at the Hudson Guild Theatre and run from March 1^st through March 11, 2012.

The festival is currently accepting submissions for the festival. The deadline is October 30, 2011 and you may download the application by visiting our website at www.therianttheatre.com or by emailing us at RiantTheatre@gmail.com.

We are holding a competition for the Best Theme Song for the Strawberry One-Act Festival. You can download an application from our website for details on how to enter. The prize of $250 will be presented at the Awards Ceremony on March 11, 2012. Click here to hear the winner of the BestTheme Song from 2011 – IT’S STRAWBERRY TIME by Andrew Fridae and Daniel Brian Jones.

At the Launch Party for the Strawberry One-Act Festival we presented the PIONEER OF THE ARTS AWARD to Broadway Producer, ALDO SCROFANI, (Photo Right) 2005 Tony Award Best Musical DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS (Nominee), Screenwriter, GERALYN LUCAS, (Photo Right: Center) WHY I WORE LIPSTICK TO MY MASTECTOMY - Lifetime Network, and JEWEL KINCH-THOMAS, (Photo Right: Right) Executive & Artistic Director of Riverside Theatre, and NY Family Arts Festival. The award ceremony was followed by a panel discussion with the honorees.

A special thanks to our staff and interns who helped make the event a success. (MJ Savasana, Chloe Glickman, Van Dirk Fisher (Artistic Director), Boncellia Lewis (Singer), Jarvis Chapman, Anaridia Burgos, Elvin Greene and Carolyn Canty.)

Souvenir mugs and Strawberry One-Act Festival t-shirts are available for purchase on our website as well www.therianttheatre.com. You can also buy our latest anthology THE BEST PLAYS FROM THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL: Volume Six. It’s a good read. For those of you who are into steamy romance novels filled with suspense, you will enjoy my novel LOVING YOU. It’s available www.therianttheatre.com and www.amazon.com.

Photo of Playwrights & Directors at the Launch Party.

IndieGoGo - the best kept secret to helping you raise money to produce your show!

2011-05-09T01:43:00.001-04:00

Producing theatre can be a challenge to anyone these days. Especially if you are an independent artist considering producing your own show. After taking into consideration all the factors of contracts, choosing a theatre, selecting your designers and casting your show, many of you may want to know how you can raise the money to make your dreams a reality? Recently I attended a panel discussion on Producing Theatre held at Space-On-White in Manhattan. One of the panelists was Slava Rubin, Chief Executive Officer of IndieGoGo (www.indieGoGo.com), a company which provides anyone with an idea - creative, cause-related, or entrepreneurial - the tools to effectively build a campaign and raise money.

They provide the tools for you to build your campaign but you need to put in some legwork crafting your story and doing community building and outreach to get it all started. They provide integrated social media tools, and the more you use them (it's what they like to call DIWO, or Do-It-With-Others) the sooner you will land you on their homepage, in the blog, or in their social media outreach and press.

Here are some frequently asked questions:

What is IndieGoGo?
IndieGoGo is a collaborative way to fund ideas.

IndieGoGo provides an easy online platform for anyone to raise more money, from more people, faster than otherwise possible. With IndieGoGo you can turn your passion into a funding campaign, promote your idea, engage a fan base, and get your passion funded. We provide all the tools you need to build a campaign and share it with the world.

How does IndieGoGo work?
Anyone can create a campaign, where you tell your story, set a funding goal, and offer perks to contributors. You can use IndieGoGo to create your campaign, share it with your network, engage fans, track information about contributors, and collect money. IndieGoGo provides excellent customer service for creating your campaigns and collecting money. We also promote campaigns through social media and press outreach, as well as on our homepage, in our newsletters, and on our blog.

Why does IndieGoGo exist?
We started IndieGoGo to democratize funding. Now anyone with a great idea has the opportunity to share his or her campaign and raise money to turn a passion into a reality.

Who can use IndieGoGo?
IndieGoGo is open for anyone to use, with any type of campaign - creative, cause-related, or entrepreneurial.

Can campaigns use IndieGoGo for equity investments?
No. All campaigns on IndieGoGo are contribution based.

Does it cost anything to create a campaign?
It doesn't cost anything to create a campaign. There is a 4% fee on the money you raise when you meet your funding goal. 3rd party processing fees also apply.

Where is IndieGoGo located?
IndieGoGo is based in the United States, but we have members in 179 countries and counting. You can post and fund a campaign from any country as long as you have a valid bank account or credit card.

What is a campaign profile?
A campaign profile is the home of your funding campaign. Your profile includes your campaign pitch (an image or video and written story), and any ongoing updates and pictures you want to share with your contributors and fans. Your profile page is where people make contributions, share comments, and pick up widgets to share the campaign.

Who owns the rights to my campaign or idea?
You do. You keep 100% ownership of all the ideas included in your campaign on IndieGoGo.

What do I need to create a campaign?
You need a thumbnail image (that is what people see for your campaign throughout IndieGoGo), a pitch image or video (this is what people see when they open your campaign itself), a clearly identified funding goal, and a pitch story about your campaign. It's also recommended to have perks with your campaign, as well as team members helping you to spread the word.

What are perks?
You can offer perks in exchange for different contribution levels in your campaign. Perks enable you to engage fans, build trust, and provide an opportunity for more people to get involved. You can offer one-of-a-kind experiences, special acknowledgments, or limited supply products. Learn More.

What do I include in my pitch?
Cover the who, what, when, where, why, and how of your campaign. Be honest, transparent, and authentic.

How do I get my campaign on IndieGoGo's homepage, in the blog, or featured in the press?
The more you use IndieGoGo's share tools, comments, and updates (see below), and the sooner you gain traction with funding, the more likely it is you will be featured on our homepage, in the blog, or in our press outreach. We feature campaigns based on their GoGoFactor. The GoGoFactor is a combination of your activity updating and sharing your campaign, and the traction you are gaining externally with contributions. When your GoGoFactor goes up, so does the likelihood you will be featured.

What if I don't meet my funding goal?
If you don't meet your funding goal, you still keep the money you raise with your campaign. IndieGoGo charges a 9% fee on campaigns with unmet funding goals.

For more information on IndieGoGo and how to get started visit their website at www.IndieGoGo.com

The Riant Theatre Upcoming Events

2011-04-15T00:48:00.009-04:00

The Riant Mixer - Networking Event
May 19, 2011
6PM - 9PM
FREE Before 7pm / $10 After 7PM
To Buy Tickets online click here.
646-623-3488

Highlights

Meet the Playwrights that have been selected for the Summer Strawberry One-Act Festival (July 28th - August 7th)
Business Card / Picture & Resume Exchange
Mingle with actors, singers, directors, stage managers & designers and other industry professionals
Feature Film, Commercial & Theatre Workshops
Sign up for the Open Mic for Singers by sending your MP3 or link to your website or YouTube video at RiantTheatre@gmail.com

To register online for the workshops click here.
The Feature Film, Commercial & Theatre Workshops with Major Casting Directors will be
Thursday, May 19, 2011
7PM - 9PM
12 Debrosses Street, NYC, between Hudson & Greenwich Street. 1 block south of Canal Street.
Trains: #1, A, C, E to Canal Street. Walk West to Hudson Street.

Richard Reed from Beth Melsky Casting
Allyn Simon from Kipperman Casting, Inc.
Liz Ortiz-Mackes from Casting Solutions
Ellyn Marshall from Orpheus Group Casting
Lawrence Evans, Casting Consultant to Theatres
This is not a panel workshop. Each Casting Director will be in a separate studio. Actors will meet one one one with casting directors.

Take 1 workshop for $35
Take 4 workshops for $102
Click here to register now. Each Workshop is limited to 14 students.
To download an application for the Strawberry One-Act Festival click here.
To register for the CORE Project click here.

New Blog: Back To One - Producing, Directing and Acting in NYC

2011-03-31T02:52:00.006-04:00

Van Dirk Fisher, AUDELCO Winner, Founder and Artistic Director of the Riant Theatre and the Strawberry One-Act Festival (Bi-Annually), gives insights on producing, directing and acting in NYC.

I’ve been asked several times for advice from actors, directors, playwrights and producers about this business we call “Show Business” and I’ve decided to write this blog to offer some insight to what I’ve learned over the years working as an actor, director, playwright, theatre producer, novelist and motivational speaker. I hope this blog is helpful. Please feel free to ask me questions and share your experiences in show business and maybe I will address your concerns and share your experiences in future blogs.

Q: What are the THREE “Ps” that every artist should live by?

A: Being Present, Prompt & Prepared. I was trained with the school of thought, while attending the High School of Performing Arts in NYC, that as an artist when we commit to a project we should be present without making excuses. The teacher or director should not have to spend time listening to an actor’s excuses for why they couldn’t be at rehearsal, they should simply be there ready to work. The second “P” is being prompt. This was a must. In fact getting there early was even better, so you could have time to take care of any personal things you needed to tend to so that at the start of the session or rehearsal you are ready to start working. The third “P” is being prepared. That means whatever was due for that particular day you made sure you were prepared to do what was expected. If that meant being off book for a particular scene you made sure you were. If that meant having your script, along with a pencil for taking notes and blocking you made sure you had a couple of pencils just in case one broke.

To read more of this blog click here.

The Riant Theatre : Alumni News

2011-03-30T12:43:00.003-04:00

The Riant Theatre : Alumni News

Alumni Michael Jones (Rock-A My Soul, the musical and an AUDELCO winnner as Best Actor) will open in the play, A Night With Pearl Cleage’s Women at Nuyorican from March 31st - April 16th and alumni Dara Bragg (Don't Let Love Pass You By & the Strawberry One-Act Festival 1995) host the SUCCESS IN THE ARTS CONFERENCE on Saturday, April 16th from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For further details click on the link above.

(Photo: Michael Jones in a scene from BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY)

Testimonies from artists who have worked with the Riant Theatre

2011-03-26T01:02:00.000-04:00

Testimonies from artists who have worked with the Riant Theatre

The CORE Project - playwriting workshop NYC

2011-03-17T21:12:00.000-04:00

THE CORE PROJECT is an on-going intensive workshop for writers, directors and actors (or any combination thereof) to develop new plays. Playwrights will receive a 1 on 1 consultation with the artistic director about their play. Then they will have 5 private sessions to work on developing their script and work with a director and actors to have their play read.

To sign up for individual sessions, which begin as early as Monday, March 21st, click here. http://www.therianttheatre.com/index.php?n=core_project

playwriting workshop NYC

The Riant Theatre : The Finals for the Strawberry One-Act Festival 2011

2011-02-09T01:26:00.000-05:00

The Riant Theatre : The Finals for the Strawberry One-Act Festival 2011

Friday, February 11, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. and
Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 1:00 p.m.

The plays will be posted as they advance to the Finals.

There will be a reception during intermission.

1) CREATE ME PEGASUS by Amy E. Witting Featuring: Billy Weimer & Elanna White
It’s been ten years since Deila has laid eyes on Frank, but for the first time sees him in a new light, shadowed with sadness and hope for her own future.

2) WAITING FOR OBAMA: A Night At The Hall Of Presidents

Written by Caitlin Tegart & Directed by Neil W. Casey
Featuring: Timothy Dunn, Winston Noel, Ben Rameaka, Michael Hartney, Matt Fisher, John Murray and Will Hines

On July 4, 2009 President Barack Obama was inducted into Disney’s Hall of Presidents.

This is how the other presidents felt about that on July 3, 2009.

3) THE HOUSE OF FALLEN SNOW by Merridith Allen
After a deadly car crash, Paul and Ally meet in a house between the world of the living and the world beyond. A house which is home to a mysterious man with the power to change time for a heavy price.
Featuring: Marie Anello, Kristina Erikson, Robert L. Haber, Andrew Pigott & Aristotle Stamat

4) PUNCHING GLASS by Amanda Idoko
A family of women struggle to pick up the pieces after the death of the patriarch brings the past crashing back in.

Featuring: Lavita Burr, Amanda Idoko, Madalyn McKay & Rosemary Thomas

5)

6)

7)

8)

At the HUDSON GUILD THEATRE, 441 West 26th Street, NYC, between 9th & 10th Avenue.
For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488.

The Riant Theatre : The Semi-Finals for the Strawberry One-Act Festival 2011

2011-02-07T04:16:00.000-05:00

The Riant Theatre : The Semi-Finals for the Strawberry One-Act Festival 2011

The best plays from Series A thru L of the competition.

Call the box office 646-623-3488 after February 4th to see which shows are in the Semi-Finals or join our Email Club to receive notification. Or check here for the results.

Semi Finals #1 (Plays from Series A, B, C & D)
Monday, February 7th at 7:00 pm

1) THE WEEKEND by Josie Parrelli
Behind the smiles and the accolades of a successful couple is the pain of the reality of their relationship breaking down.

2) OBITUARY BLUES by Von H. Washington, Sr.
The news ignites a fire of anger and disbelief in the members of the Women’s Auxiliary and sends them scrambling to figure out how to remain fair, in a world that is seemingly unjust and inconsiderate.

3) CREATE ME PEGASUS by Amy E. Witting

Featuring: Billy Weimer & Elanna White
It’s been ten years since Deila has laid eyes on Frank, but for the first time sees him in a new light, shadowed with sadness and hope for her own future.

4) MY MOM IS A SEX THERAPIST by Cara Maltz & Stephan Varnier
This one-woman show with a twist gives you a glimpse into growing up as the daughter of a sex therapist and does not apologize for it!

Semi Finals #2 (Plays from Series A, B, C & D)
Monday, February 7th at 9:00 pm

1) THANK YOU TEN by Mara Wilson
Brush up your Shakespeare . . .

2) CLOWN LOVE by Carla Ching
Featuring: Michael Swartz, Ricardo Perez Gonzalez & Amanda Boekelheide
Sometimes love doesn’t come with a big red nose.

3) HOME MOVIES Written by Lee Eypper & Directed by Sarah Jenkins
A Peeping Tom and a Law & Order TV show fanatic descend on a downtown NYC police station. Will the Lieutenant throw the book at them?

4) WAITING FOR OBAMA: A Night At The Hall Of Presidents

Written by Caitlin Tegart & Directed by Neil W. Casey
Featuring: Timothy Dunn, Winston Noel, Ben Rameaka, Michael Hartney, Matt Fisher, John Murray and Will Hines

On July 4, 2009 President Barack Obama was inducted into Disney’s Hall of Presidents.

This is how the other presidents felt about that on July 3, 2009.

Semi Finals #3 (Plays from Series E, F, G & H)
Tuesday, February 8th at 7:00 pm

1) MISMATCHED SOCKS by Melissa Kuch
Will it be sex, laundry or both? A couple on two different wave lengths prepare for a night that neither of them expected.

2) PUNCHING GLASS by Amanda Idoko
A family of women struggle to pick up the pieces after the death of the patriarch brings the past crashing back in.

3) THREE SMART FELLOWS by Arthur S. Brown
Three educated gentlemen try to decide what to do about it.

4) NIGHTHAWKS by Daniel Alexander Tobin

Inspired by Edward Hopper’s painting entitled Nighthawks. The actions and choices we make have consequences-can one really find themselves removed from the realities of life?

Semi Finals #4 (Plays from Series E,F,G & H)
Tuesday, February 8th at 9:00 pm

1) STATUS: A music drama for the digital age. By Brian Myers
Privacy! I remember . . . but now that my mom’s my friend, she’ll see it all.

2) THE HOUSE OF FALLEN SNOW by Merridith Allen
After a deadly car crash, Paul and Ally meet in a house between the world of the living and the world beyond. A house which is home to a mysterious man with the power to change time for a heavy price.

3) THE ROOKIE by Bob Zaslow
What if the only thing between you and killing yourself was a rookie on the phone with mother issues?

4) PIECES OF NO TRAVELER by Penny Pollak
No Traveler combines vaudevillian moments, original music and the universal experience of the heartbreaking act of suicide with the one thing that helps us keep going…laughter.

Semi Finals #5 (Plays from Series I, J, K & L)
Wednesday, February 9th at 7:00 pm

1) SALAMANDER STEW by Michael Fixel & Directed by Juliet Fixel
Let's just say it's got elves, but it's no Will Ferrell movie.

2) A MATTER OF CHOICE by Paul Trupia
It’s not madness. It’s a matter of choice.

3) WINTER FLOWERS Written by Lily Rusek & Directed by Heather Arnson
Two sisters in the autumn of their lives must decide how to spend their final winter.

4) ALWAYS FAITHFUL by Joesph Lizardi

A love story about three young lives shattered by the Vietnam War.

Semi Finals #6 (Plays from Series I, J, K & L)
Wednesday, February 9th at 9:00 pm

1) WAITING Written & Directed by Yael Gidron

Featuring: Yael Gidron, Erin Posanti and Doriet Fischer

Two very different women. One waiting room.

2) THE RIVER VIEW by Stephen G. Martin
An aging Hollywood star checks into Rehab for her alcoholism and is forced to share her room with a twenty-something drug user.

3) THE THIRD PULPIT by Ed Stever
A jaded lawyer meets an enthusiastically optimistic young man. The clash of philosophies lead to a conflagration, which could lead to the demise of one of them.

4) BRYAN AND KIM by Adam Delia

Kim reveals to her boy friend Bryan a secret from her past, it starts a chain reaction that will put their relationship to the test.

At the Hudson Guild Theatre, 441 West 26th Street, NYC
Between 9th & 10th Avenue
For Tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com
Box Office 646-623-3488
Tickets: $22.00 Online and $25.00 at the box office (Cash Only)

The Riant Theatre : Wild Night at the Strawberry One-Act Festival 2011

2011-02-07T04:13:00.000-05:00

The Riant Theatre : Wild Night at the Strawberry One-Act Festival 2011

The Artistic Director selects a few plays and gives them one more chance to compete for a slot in The Finals.

Wild Night #1 - February 10th at 7:00 p.m.

1) CONKERS by Holly Hamilton
An Irish slice of life as seen through the eyes of a nine year old boy.
“Everything that’s happen is like a dream. I don’t like havin’ to wake up,
but you have to don’t ya’.”

2) CANAAN by Murray H. Kiok
The initial struggles over land in Canaan (Palestine) as seen through the eyes of two families.

3) WHEN THE BED BUGS BITE by Terry M. Sandler
A clock in the distance ticked loudly . . . then silence.

4) STANDING ON CEREMONY by Laurence C. Schwartz
In pre-digitalized America, an eleven-year old boy is the victim of school bullying. His parents enlist the service of the family priest as an antidote.

Wild Night #2 - February 10th at 9:00 p.m.

1) THE BRIDGE by Rick Charles Mueller

Featuring: Kaelin Birkenhead, Rick Koch,Rick Charles Mueller and Seth Rosenfeld

War cast shadows stretching a life time. An 87 year old man’s life is challenged when his values are questioned.

2) BROKEN by Greg Redlawsk
A play about honor and family in the confines of a closed off city.

3) SARAH’S BLOOD by Rebekah L. Pierce
Thirteen year old Sarah has a monster in her home. Can she get her prayer army together in time to save her family?

4) WERQ! The Dragsical by Ashton Pina
Bitch you betta WERQ!

At the Hudson Guild Theatre, 441 West 26th Street, NYC
Between 9th & 10th Avenue
For Tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com
Box Office 646-623-3488
Tickets: $22.00 Online and $25.00 at the box office (Cash Only)

The Plays Moving To the Semi-Finals #1 & #2 Are:

2011-02-04T02:20:00.005-05:00

Clown Love, Create Me Pegasus, Home Movies & My Mom Is A Sex Therapist have advanced to the Riant Theatre's Strawberry One-Act Festival's Semi-Finals and will perform at the Hudson Guild Theatre, 441 West 26th Street on Monday, February 7th at 7pm or 9pm. For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488 for tickets.

Semi Finals #1 (Plays from Series A, B, C & D)
Monday, February 7th at 7:00 pm

1) CREATE ME PEGASUS by Amy E. Witting

Featuring: Billy Weimer & Elanna White
It’s been ten years since Deila has laid eyes on Frank, but for the first time sees him in a new light, shadowed with sadness and hope for her own future.

2)

3) MY MOM IS A SEX THERAPIST by Cara Maltz & Stephan Varnier
This one-woman show with a twist gives you a glimpse into growing up as the daughter of a sex therapist and does not apologize for it!

Semi Finals #2 (Plays from Series A, B, C & D)
Monday, February 7th at 9:00 pm

1) CLOWN LOVE by Carla Ching
Featuring: Michael Swartz, Ricardo Perez Gonzalez & Amanda Boekelheide
Sometimes love doesn’t come with a big red nose.

2) HOME MOVIES Written by Lee Eypper & Directed by Sarah Jenkins
A Peeping Tom and a Law & Order TV show fanatic descend on a downtown NYC police station. Will the Lieutenant throw the book at them?

3)
4)

The Launch Party for the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2011-01-10T03:30:00.007-05:00

Monday, January 17, 2011
Time: 6:30PM until 9:30PM

At The Hudson Guild Theatre, 441 West 26th Street, NYC

Proceeds to benefit the Youth Empowerment Scholarship Awards.

Tickets: $27 online if purchased by Monday, January 10, 2011

$37 online after January 10th and $42 at the door (CASH ONLY)

Meet the Playwrights & Artists in the Festival

Music Provided by Singer Boncellia Lewis & Special Guest Artists

Featuring Belly Dancer, Sharon Zaslaw

The Riant Theatre : Reading of HEARTS GAMBLE by Kee Seymore

2010-10-22T15:47:00.002-04:00

Reading of HEARTS GAMBLE by Kee Seymore

The next Play Reading: HEARTS GAMBLE by Kee Seymore
Directed by Sean Gallagher
Wednesday, November 3, 2010 at 7PM.

At 12 Debrosses Street, between Hudson & Greenwich Street.
Trains: #1, A,C,E to Canal Street.
Walk to Hudson Street and then 1 block South of Canal Street.

HEARTS GAMBLE by Kee Seymore

Mr. Seymore's play was the winner of the Winter 2010 Strawberry One-Act Festival and was the winner of the Best Actor Award. It has been developed into a full length play.

HEARTS GAMBLE

It's guys night, their weekly poker night.
Alex is getting married in two weeks, but can't stop his playboy ways.
Jake, his best man, asks, "Why get married?"
DC, his protege, asks, "Why not?"
and Carl . . . is Carl.
Drinks are poured. Cards are dealt.
Secrets surface and conflicts arise.

The Cast includes:

Kee Seymore as Alex
Sean Gallagher as Jake
Mike Gregorek as Carl
Damian Santucci as DC
Melinda Steward as Megan
Kyla Garcia as Jenn

Bhret Boone is the stage manager.

Admission is FREE. Seating is limited. RSVP to attend at RiantTheatre@gmail.com.

The plays in the Play Reading Series are developed in The CORE Project at the Riant. See Education for further details or click here.

The CORE Project - Script Development Workshop

2010-09-20T14:10:00.005-04:00

THE CORE PROJECT is an intensive workshop for writers, directors and actors (or any combination thereof) to develop new plays. Playwrights will receive a 1 on 1 consultation with the artistic director about their play. Then they will have 5 private sessions to work on developing their script and work with a director and actors to have their play read.

Plays from the CORE Project will be selected for the Play Reading Series and for development. Plays developed within the workshop will also be considered for production in the Strawberry One-Act Festival. Plays that are finalists in the festival go on to be published in The Best Plays From The Strawberry One-Act Festival series.

The CORE Project will be led by artistic director and producer Van Dirk Fisher. Enrollment is limited. Day time and evening time slots are available for each playwright enrolled in the CORE Project.

Early enrollment is $250 for Five (5) two hour sessions over Five (5) consecutive weeks, plus One (1) hour consultation on your script.

Enrollment after September 30th is $350.

To enroll go to www.therianttheatre.com or click here.

After you enroll in the CORE Project you can email your script in WORD format or as a PDF file to RiantTheatre@gmail.com or mail it to The Riant Theatre, P.O. Box 1902, NY, NY 10013, Attn: The CORE Project.

The CORE Project will be held at our 2 locations:

NOHO: 419 Lafayette Street, 2nd Floor, between Astor Place & East 4th Street.
Trains: #6 to Astor Place and the R train to 8th Street.

TRIBECA: 12 Debrosses Street between Greenwich St. & Hudson Street.
Trains: #1, A,C,E to Canal Street.

Directors should submit a resume and letter of interest or intent and Actors may send their picture and resume by email to RiantTheatre@gmail.com or by mail to obtain an audition. The Riant Theatre is a multicultural theatre. All are encouraged to apply. Materials should be mailed to: The Riant Theatre, P.O. Box 1902, NY, NY 10013. Please include a S.A.S.E. for the return of materials.

SCRIPT SUBMISSIONS FOR THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL

2010-09-20T01:20:00.010-04:00

The Riant Theatre’s Strawberry One-Act Festival from January 31, 2011 – February 13, 2011
The Riant Theatre is accepting submissions of 15 – 30 minutes one-act plays. Artistic Director, Van Dirk Fisher. Plays must have their own director and cast and be able to be presented from January 31 - February 13, 2011. Plays will be performed at The Hudson Guild Theatre. The Playwright with the Best Play will receive a prize of $1,500 and development deal. Awards of $150 will also be given to Best Director, Best Actor & Actress. Some of the plays in the festival will be considered for publication in the anthology series: The Best Plays From The Strawberry One-Act Festival: Volume 8. For an application visit the website: www.therianttheatre.com or send a SASE. The Riant Theatre, P.O. Box 1902, NY, NY 10013, Attn: The Strawberry One-Act Festival (Winter). Deadline: October 30^th.
Volunteers and Interns send resumes. Further info at www.myspace.com/the1toknownow.

The Winners of the Strawberry One-Act Festival Summer 2010

2010-08-22T21:46:00.002-04:00

The Strawberry One-Act Festival Awards:

Awards were presented to the BEST Play, BEST Director, BEST Actor & BEST Actress on August 22, 2010 at 2pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC.

The nominees for BEST PLAY:

ALL IS ONE NOW by Josh Gulotta

SOMETHING LIKE PENGUINS by Levi Wilson - Winner Best Play Award

HEROES by Joseph Lizardi

SOUL OF A POET by Isaac Shapiro

The nominees for BEST DIRECTOR:

Heather Arnson (SOUL OF A POET) - Winner Best Director Award
Whitney Aronson (DREAM WEDDING)
Mario Corry (SOMETHING LIKE PENGUINS)
Josh Gulotta (ALL IS ONE NOW)
Daniel Kadin (HONOUR)
Joseph Lizardi (HEROES)

The nominees for BEST ACTOR:

Joseph Boover (Todd) THE LOSING GAME
Daniel Brian Jones (Remy) ALL IS ONE NOW
Jordan Kenneth Kamp (Thomas) ADULT BOOKS
Collin Knight (Jeffrey Lewis) HEROES - Winner Best Actor Award
Derek Spaldo (Man) SUMMER BREEZES IN THE CITY OF THE DEAD
Levi Wilson (Daniel) SOMETHING LIKE PENGUINS

The nominees for BEST ACTRESS:

Janaya Combs (Heather) SOMETHING LIKE PENGUINS
Rachel Harrington (Montana) SOUL OF A POET
Erica Knight (Emily) BRUNCH
Dipti J. Mehta HONOUR
Lynne Taylor (Thelma Drayer) THE ASSESSMENT - Winner Best Actress Award
Jessica Vera (Roberta) HIROSHI – ME, ME, ME

The Awards Ceremony & Performance of the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Sunday, August 22nd at 2pm

2010-08-21T13:02:00.003-04:00

The four best plays from the Finals will perform. Awards will be given to the Best Play, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Actor.

Sunday, August 22, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets: $27.00 online and $30.00 at the box office. For Tickets click here.

1) ALL IS ONE NOW Written & Directed by Josh Gulotta
Featuring: Daniel Brian Jones, Tim Jones, Mae Mitchell & Morgan Whitaker

A man discovers he still hasn’t found what he’s looking for.

2) SOMETHING LIKE PENQUINS Written by Levi Wilson
Directed by Mario Corry. Featuring: Janaya Combs, Ryan Lee Nazionale & Levi Wilson
Can people march like penquins?

3) HEROES Written & Directed by Joseph Lizardi
Featuring: Jason Faust & Collin Knight

Two different types of Vietnam heroes come face to face about the war.

See an interview with Joseph Lizard, Jason Faust, Collin Knight.

4) SOUL OF A POET Written by Isaac Shapiro & Directed by Heather Arnson. Featuring: Nick Cavarella, Adam Cronhein, Rachael Harrington & Brent Reams
Two people, one with an above average the other with a below average IQ live together, but their relationship and livelihood become threatened when old secrets are revealed.

The Finals - Friday, August 20th at 7pm

2010-08-17T02:26:00.014-04:00

The best plays from the Semi-Finals & The Wild Night
Friday, August 20, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. For tickets call 646-623-3488 or buy them online at www.therianttheatre.com

The plays will be posted as they advance to the Finals.

There will be a reception during intermission.

1) HIROSHI – ME, ME, ME Written by Natalie Menna
There’s no end to Roberta’s delusions…or ranting. Scary that there’s a little bit of Roberta in all of us!
Click here to see an interview with the actors Jessica Vera and Josh Evans discussing the play.

2) ALL IS ONE NOW Written by Josh Gulotta
Featuring: Daniel Brian Jones, Tim Jones, Mae Mitchell & Morgan Whitaker
A man discovers he still hasn’t found what he’s looking for.

Click on the name to see an interview with Josh Bulotta, Mae Mitchell, Daniel Briand Jones

3) WHY THEY CAME Written by Jessica Hinds & Directed by Lucia Peters
No one knows where they came from or why they came, or their reasons for taking most, and leaving the rest. As four survivors struggle to make sense of what has happened, one man comes to a startling conclusion.

4) HEROES Written & Directed by Joseph Lizardi
Featuring: Jason Faust & Collin Knight

Two different types of Vietnam heroes come face to face about the war.

See an interview with Joseph Lizard, Jason Faust, Collin Knight.

5) THE ASSESSMENT by J.M. Eisenman & Directed by Al D'Andreà

Justin Shapiro is assigned to assess former comedy writer Thelma Drayer for a conservatorship, but just who is assessing who?
Click here to see an interview with actress Lynn Taylor.

6) SOUL OF A POET Written by Isaac Shapiro &
Directed by Heather Arnson
Two people, one with an above average the other with a below average IQ live together, but their relationship and livelihood become threatened when old secrets are revealed.

7) SOMETHING LIKE PENQUINS Written by Levi Wilson
Directed by Mario Corry
Featuring: Janaya Combs, Ryan Nazionale & Levi Wilson
Can people march like penquins?

8) PLAYING THE GAME Written by Holly Hunt
Directed by Susan Tromans

Featuring: Peter Augustine, Chris Calaitges, Sherry Mandery and Suellen Romani

In relationships, there are many games p layed. Samantha and Adam go home together to find out the game they are playing is not the one they thought.

The Riant Theatre : Semi Finals and the Wild Night at the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2010-08-13T02:28:00.023-04:00

The Riant Theatre : Semi Finals and the Wild Night at the Strawberry One-Act Festival
To order tickets now go to www.therianttheatre.com
Tickets: $22.00 online & $25.00 at the Box Office

Semi Finals #1 (Plays from Series A, B, C & D)
Monday, August 16th at 7:00 pm

1) HAPPY GIRL Written & Directed by Brian Leider
Featuring: Victoria Dicce & Caitlin Zvoleff
Joy is floating belly up in your fish bowl.

2) DREAM WEDDING! Written by Ellen Orchid & Directed by Whitney Aronson
A group of unemployed actors concoct a scheme to win a “Dream Wedding!” on a morning TV talk show.

Click here to see an interview with playwright Ellen Orchid.

3) HONOUR Written by Dipti J. Mehta & Directed by Daniel Kadin

Guest Director: Erica Gould
Featuring: Dipti J. Mehta
Honour, a prostitute’s gift to her only daughter.
Click here to see an interview with Dipti J. Mehta.
Click here to see an interview with Daniel Kadin.

4) HIROSHI – ME, ME, ME Written by Natalie Menna
There’s no end to Roberta’s delusions…or ranting. Scary that there’s

a little bit of Roberta in all of us!
Click here to see an interview with the actors Jessica Vera and Josh Evans discussing the play.

Semi Finals #2 (Plays from Series A, B, C & D)

Monday, August 16th at 9:00 pm

1) THE METEOR SEASON by Keaton Weiss
A chance encounter between two strangers leads to a revealing discussion of love, life, and the end of time.

2) DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS by Greg Edwards
Not all embassies are born equal.

3) THE SESSION – A Pitch Black C ome dy in One-Act Written by Chris Ferretti
Directed by Julie Wallach

Set in 1982, a Jersey City psychologist and a overbearing mother find out the hard way what happens when you push a Mafia Captain too far.

Click on the name to see an interview with Chris Ferretti, Jullie Wallach, Katherine M cDonald

4) ALL IS ONE NOW Written by Josh Gulotta
Featuring: Daniel Brian Jones, Tim Jones, Mae Mitchell & Morgan Whitaker

A man discovers he still hasn’t found what he’s looking for.

Click on the name to see an interview with Josh Bulotta, Mae Mitchell, Daniel Briand Jon es

Semi Finals #3 (Plays from Series E, F, G & H)
Tuesday, August 17th at 7:00 pm

THE ASSESSMENT by J.M. Eisenman
Justin Shapiro is assigned to assess former comedy writer Thelma Drayer for a conservatorship, but just who is assessing who?
Click here to see an interview with actress Lynn Taylor.

DAY DREAMS Written by Paul Trupia & Directed by Becky Copley
Life can be a dream.
Click here to see an interview with Pau l Trupia and Kelly Karavites.

BRUNCH Written & Directed by Sari Caine Glickstein
Featuring: David J. Goldberg, Erica Knight & Lauren Lucksavage
Emily and Harry are having a civilized brunch as underneath tensions fly.

GAY HAIKU Written by Samuel Perwin
Homos. Succinctly.

Click on the name to see the interview with Samuel Perwin, Lance Mullins, Patrick Ryan, Kyle Mitchell

Semi Finals #4 (Plays from Series E, F, G & H)
Tuesday, August 17th at 9:00 pm

ADULT BOOKS Written by Jonathan Ashley
Be careful where you leave your credit card.
Click here to see an interview Jonathan Ashley and actress Maiken Weise.

A TOAST WITH CHAMPALE by Veronica Newton
Directed by Ali Ayala
Featuring: Sarah M. Wood & Rand Guerrero
Three weeks ago Stephen asked Grace to marry him. He has not had an answer. Today he wants her decision. Commit or not Grace? That where our story begins.

Click here to see the interview with Veronica and Ali.

THE BENEVOLENTS by Devin Doyle
Featuring: Susan Mirwis, Adam Kaplan, Kent Abbett, and Hilary Hanson.
Entranced by the offers of two ambiguous youths, a recently divorced couple attempt to recapture their individual strength at the mercy of this new offbeat kindness.
Click on the name to see the interview with Devin Doyle, Susan Mirwis, Alexander Delare

SOUL OF A POET Written by Isaac Shapiro & Directed by Heather Arnson
Two people, one with an above average the other with a below average IQ live together, but their relationship and livelihood become threatened when old secrets are revealed.

Semi Finals #5 (Plays from Series I, J, K & L)
Wednesday, August 18th at 7:00 pm

GENTLEMAN AND SCHOLAR Written by John Martin & Directed by Nat Habib
Featuring: Stephen Braccioforte & Frank Lombardi
Things get heated when a know-it-all meets a higher authority in the lower depths.
Click here to see an interview with Frank Lombardi and Stephen Braccioforte.

THE LOSING GAME by Kristen Seavey
Cards will land as they may, but hearts will always be the hardest to hold onto.

HOME SWEET HOME Written & Directed by Eljon Wardally

Featuring: Charlotte Bair-Cucchiaro, Joshua Alexander Stringer & Stephen Hadeed Jr.
I am who I was and always will be no matter where I go.
Click on the name to see their interview about the play: Charlotte Bair-Cucchiaro, Joshua Stringer.

HEROES Written & Directed by Joseph Lizardi
Two different types of Vietnam heroes come face to face about the war.

See an interview with Joseph Lizard, Jason Faust, Collin Knight.

Semi Finals #6 (Plays from Series I, J, K & L)
Wednesday, August 18th at 9:00 pm

SIMPLY ME, A musical starring Mitchell Robert. Musical Director - Albee Barr
A musical about one man bringing back realization to the essence of living.
Interview with Mitchell Robert.

RELATIONSHIP COURT Written by Sergio Solorzano
Directed by Sergio Solorzano & Adam Brome
Bringing justice one boyfriend at a time.

SOMETHING LIKE PENQUINS Written by Levi Wilson
Directed by Mario Corry
Featuring: Janaya Combs, Ryan Nazionale & Levi Wilson
Can people march like penquins?

Click on the name to see their interview about the play: Levi Wilson, Mario Corry.

A TASTE OF BAD MEDICINE Written by John Vitkovich
A doctor’s dishonesty leads to his demise.

Wild Night #1 - August 19th at 7:00 p.m.

FIREMAN Written by Stephen Brown
Fireman brings us into the lives of a couple caught in the wake of a fire, leaving one of them and their relationship scorched and disfigured.

THE HANDBAG CLICK-CLACK GIRLS Written & Directed by Anthony Fusco
Featuring: Yael Grill, Lauren Novak, Carrie Lynette Stringfellow & Stephen Suarez
Are they hot or just a hot mess? It’s the Golden Girls and Sex and the City combined.
Click here to see an interview with Anthony Fusco.

WHY THEY CAME Written by Jessica Hinds & Directed by Lucia Peters

No one knows where they came from or why they came, or their reasons for taking most, and leaving the rest. As four survivors struggle to make sense of what has happened, one man comes to a startling conclusion.
Click here to see an interview with Jessica Hinds and Robin Singer.

BEYOND OPEN LINES by Emmanuel Fleischmann
Directed by Mark Bloom
An elderly Jewish woman searches her memories to find redemption for a life deferred.

Click here to see an interview with Emmanuel Fleischmann.

Wild Night #2 - August 19th at 9:00 p.m.

BLIND SIDED by Cynthia Talia Ferri & Directed by Jonathan Libman
In this zany, fast-paced techno-world of cyber dating, a communication hiccup turns this blind date hook-up into an absurdity that is sure to amuse!
Click here to see an interview with Cynthia Talia Ferri.

CURVEBALL by Brendan Burke & Directed by Sarah V. Michelson
A young couple faces the end of their youth amid the recent banking crisis.

SUMMER BREEZES IN THE CITY OF THE DEAD by Lucas T. Syed
Two perspectives on the human connection in crisis.

PLAYING THE GAME Written by Holly Hunt
Directed by Susan Tromans
Featuring: Peter Augustine, Chris Calaitges, Sherry Mandery and Suellen Romani
See an interview with Susan Tromans.

In relationships, there are many games played. Samantha and Adam go home together to find out the game they are playing is not the one they thought.

SCRIPT SUBMISSIONS FOR THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL

2010-04-20T05:06:00.006-04:00

DEADLINE APRIL 30TH

The 18th Annual Strawberry One-Act Festival will be at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC, from August 12 - August 22, 2010. The winner of the BEST PLAY receives $1,500 and a development deal to have a full length play produced by the Riant Theatre. Awards also presented to the BEST DIRECTOR, BEST ACTOR and BEST ACTRESS.

Click here to obtain an application or email us at RiantTheatre@gmail.com

The Making of the Strawberry One-Act Festival - Documentary

2010-01-17T13:13:00.002-05:00

This year I decided to make a documentary of THE MAKING OF THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL. 9 Actors have been selected for the documentary and we will be following them through out the festival to see if any of them make it to the Awards Ceremony on February 21st at The American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC. The Festival runs from February 11th - Febraury 21st.

To buy your tickets to the Strawberry One-Act Festival click here.

Introduction

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

PART 4

PART 5

PART 6

Auditions for DREAM BABIES, the musical on Thursday 12/17

2009-12-12T12:44:00.001-05:00

Auditions for singers, teens & adults for DREAM BABIES, the musical on Thursday 12/17 from 4:30 - 6:30pm at 419 Lafayette St., 2nd fl, NYC. Prepare 1 song and bring your picture and resume.

The Soundtrack to Loving You is available check it out!

2009-11-26T04:55:00.002-05:00

Acting Workshop - Saturdays from 2-4pm

2009-11-09T21:44:00.002-05:00

Saturday, November 14, 2009 through
February, February 6, 2010
Time: 2pm-4pm
Fee: (10 Sessions - $250) Installment plans available.

12 Debrosses Street, 1st Floor, Studio 6, NYC.
Between Hudson Street & Greenwich Street.
Trains: #1 to Canal Street. Walk 1 block west to Hudson Street and 1 block south of Canal Street. Or take the A, C, or E train to Canal Street and walk 2 blocks west to Hudson Street and 1 block South of Canal Street.

The Acting Workshop will be conducted by Van Dirk Fisher, the founder and artistic director of the Riant Theatre.

Students will learn the fundamentals on how to approach working on a scene, building a character, monologues and cold readings for auditions. To register call 646-623-3488 or email us at therianttheatre@aol.com

Musical Theatre Workshop - Thursdays 7-10pm

2009-11-09T21:36:00.002-05:00

Students are taught by theatre professionals and will learn Broadway, Gospel and Classical style songs, do vocal and acting exercises and learn how to create a character in a musical. Wear something comfortable to participate in this workshop. The Workshop will be conducted by Tony Harris, musical director and Van Dirk Fisher, founder and artistic director of the Riant Theatre.

Thursdays from 7-10pm through February 4, 2010.
Fee: (10 Sessions - $375) Installment plans available.
At 440 Studios, 440 Lafayette Street, 4th floor, Studio 4G, NYC. Between Astor Place and East 4th Street. Trains: #6 to Astor Place or the R Train to 8th Street.

To register call 646-623-3488 or email us at therianttheatre@aol.com.

Submissions for the Winter Strawberry One-Act Festival 2010

2009-11-09T21:23:00.003-05:00

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO NOVEMBER 15TH

The 17th Annual Strawberry One-Act Festival will be at the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC, from February 8th - February 21, 2010. The winner of the BEST PLAY receives $1,500 and a development deal to have a full length play produced by the Riant Theatre. Awards also presented to the BEST DIRECTOR, BEST ACTOR and BEST ACTRESS. To obtain an application go to www.therianttheatre.com/strawberry.html

Founder & Artistic Director Van Dirk Fisher to receive an AUDELCO Award on Monday, November 16th

2009-11-09T21:12:00.006-05:00

Van Dirk Fisher will be honored at the 37th Annual Vivian Robinson/Recognition Awards "The VIV" with the Special Achievement Award for the Outstanding work he has done at the Riant on Monday, November 16th at Harlem Stage/Aaron Davis Hall, Inc., at the Marian Anderson Theatre, 133rd Street and Convent Avenue, NYC.

VIP Gala Reception 6:00 p.m.

Ceremony Awards and Honors 7:30 p.m.

Honorary Co-Chairs: Starletta DuPois & Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj

Co-Hosts: Kim Brockington & Ted Lange

For Ticket info call:
AUDELCO 212.368.6906 / email: audelco@aol.com
Or
HarlemStage Box Office: 212.281.9240

$125.00 VIP Reception/Orchestra seats
$75.00 General/Mid Orchestra seats
$40.00 Balcony/Mezzanine seats

Scenes from Rock-A My Soul: There Has To Be A Little Angel by Van Dirk Fisher

2009-08-28T14:52:00.009-04:00

Hear what people are saying about ROCK-A MY SOUL:

Superb performance, well written, strong message of faith, heart gripping spiritual songs, fast moving, glued to our seats every second of the performance ! That is just some of the words which describe the play we were privileged to enjoy last evening "Rock-A-My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham".

We felt as if we were transported to South Carolina during that horrific time in 1995. The actors & actresses kept us spellbound, they truly became characters they played. It was very realistic.

The music was wonderful and their voices were heavenly.

We strongly recommend seeing this play !

It was a wonderfully entertaining and enjoyable evening !

Thanks for sharing your talents with us.

Agnes & Dave Romlein

ROCK-A MY SOUL at the Theatre At St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street thru August 30th

2009-08-24T13:57:00.008-04:00

ROCK-A-MY SOUL, a Gospel/Rock Musical by Van Dirk Fisher

Packs A Powerful Punch With A Love Story That Echoes Medea.

Torn From The Newspapers It Features A Story That Rocked The World In 1994.
At The Theatre at St. Clement’s, 423 West 46th Street, NYC.

Rock-A My Soul August 16th through August 30th

Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm; Saturdays at 1pm, 4pm & 8pm; Sundays at 4pm & 8pm

Tickets: $35.00 at the Box Office and $25.00 online at http://www.therianttheatre.com/At the Theatre at St. Clement’s, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Between 9th & 10th Avenue.

ROCK-A-MY SOUL the gospel/rock musical by Van Dirk Fisher, is based on a true story about love and devotion, and a woman as haunting as Medea! Taylor Cooper and Julie Johnson had a love so strong that couldn’t be denied. Then on the day he proposed to her their world was turned upside down. The place: Union South Carolina. The alleged crime: Carjacking and kidnapping. When the media turned against him, one brother stood by him, his church prayed for him, and his mother never gave up on him. But who can save him when there are witnesses who saw him with the victims? If he’s founds guilty he will be sentenced to death. Rock-A My Soul is a testimony to faith and the power of the human spirit.

ROCK-A MY SOUL packs a powerful punch with spirituals and original music written by Van Dirk Fisher. The play was inspired by the story of Susan Smith, a real life tragic person, a mother from Union, South Carolina whose tearful plea in 1994 on national television seduced the world to come to her aid as she pleaded for the carjacker who kidnapped her two little boys to return them safely to her. The play parallels her story against the man she accused of the carjacking, Taylor Cooper.

How can one write a musical about such a tragic figure? “Well, ROCK-A-MY SOUL struck a chord with me on so many levels,” says playwright and director Van Dirk Fisher. “It’s central character, Susan Smith’s confession rocked the world and shocked the nation. It was unthinkable. It’s true some of our greatest works have been about very complex women like Medea and as usual, fact is sometimes stranger than fiction. Susan Smith has all the elements of a tragic figure. She was well liked in her community. Family videos showed that she obviously loved her two little boys very much. Court testimony revealed that she had been abused by her father and witnessed his suicide. Later, she was repeatedly sexually abused by her stepfather. Isolated from her mother, who didn’t believe her abuse or simply refused to come to her aid, led her to desperate acts when she felt overwhelmed in life.”

Great care is given in exploring the complexities of Susan’s life with such songs as ONE MOMENT IN TIME IT APPEARED and THERE HAS TO BE A LITTLE ANGEL written by Van Dirk Fisher as well as the heart wrenching gospel song LORD, I’M WAITING FOR MY SON TO COME HOME, sung by Taylor’s mother when she learns of his arrest.

Van Dirk Fisher, the playwright and director of ROCK-A-MY SOUL has written seveal plays and musicals, including: Sweet Blessings, Going South!, Somebody’s Calling My Name, Loving That Man Of Mine, Tracks, Code Of Silence and The Atlanta Affair. Mr. Fisher is also the producer and creator of the prestigious Strawberry One-Act Festival, which just celebrated it’s 16th season.

The Winners of the Strawberry One-Act Festival Are...

2009-08-24T12:34:00.002-04:00

The BEST PLAY is
I DO...I GUESS by Michael Musi

The BEST DIRECTOR of a play is
KYLE OVERSTREET for Jumping The Gun

The BEST ACTOR is
ANDREW GUILARTE (Dan) in General Admission

The BEST ACTRESS is
TAMAR PELZIG (Poo Schumer) in Turkey Day

The 4 Plays Moving To The Awards Ceremony Are...

2009-08-22T00:19:00.006-04:00

The Nominees For Best Play Of The Strawberry One-Act Festival Are:

1. Turkey Day Written & Directed by E.K. Deutsch

2. Bird Watching Written & Directed by Jeffrey L. Hollman

3. I Do...I Guess Written & Directed by Michael Musi

4. Double Fear Written & Directed by Joseph Lizardi

The Award Ceremony & Performance will be on
Sunday, August 23rd at 2pm
At the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC
Tickets: $25 online at www.therianttheatre.com and
$30 at the Box Office 646-623-3488.
Cash only at the Box Office.
There will be a cocktail reception after the show.
Dress Code: Formal (Guys Jackets & Ties)

The Nominees for the Strawberry One-Act Festival Are...

2009-08-21T10:23:00.002-04:00

The Nominees For BEST DIRECTOR:

1. E.K. Deutsch for Turkey Day
2. Jeffrey Hollman for Bird Watching
3. Joseph Lizardi for Double Fear
4. Michael Musi for I Do...I Guess
5. Ellen Orchid for Prescriptions
6. Kyle Overstreet for Jumping The Gun

The Nominees for BEST ACTOR:

1. Jerome Gall (Mike) in Jumping The Gun
2. Justin Gillman (David Greenberg) in Deuteranomaly
3. Andrew Guilarte (Dan) in General Admissions
4. Rich Hollman (Larry) in Bird Watching
5. Michael Musi ( Mike) in I Do...I Guess
6. George Raboni (Man #1) in 16 Tons

The Nominees for BEST ACTRESS:

1. Sarah Cuneo (Annie) in The Concrete Wall
2. Laura Bowman (Dee) in Looking For Talika
3. Miriam Kove (Agnes Dewilde) in Taming The Bull
4. Mary Looram (Anna) in Melt Into The Sun
5. Thesa Loving (Dr. Renee Baylor) in Prescriptions
6. Tamar Pelzig (Poo Schumer) in Turkey Day

The winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony and Performance of the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Sunday, August 23, 2009 at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets: $25 online at www.therianttheatre.com; $30 at the Box Office
646-623-3488 Cash Only At The Door.

Plays Moving Into The Finals, Friday, August 21st at 7PM

2009-08-18T02:43:00.010-04:00

The Strawberry One-Act Festival
Plays Moving Into The Finals On Friday, August 21st at 7:00 p.m.

1. I DO...I GUESS Written & Directed by Michael Musi (From Semi-Finals #2)

2. 16 Tons Written by Adam Harlan & Directed by Jaclyn Amor (From Wild Night #2)

3. JUMPING THE GUN Written & Directed by Kyle Overstreet (From Semi-Finals #1)

4. Bird Watching Written & Directed by Jeffrey L. Hollman (From Semi-Finals #4)

5. Double Fear Written & Directed by Joseph Lizardi (From Wild Night #1)

6. Turkey Day Written & Directed by E.K. Deutsch (From Semi-Finals #3)

Tickets: $25.00 Online at http://www.therianttheatre.com/. $30.00 at the Box Office.
(Includes Reception.)

The nominations for Best Director, Best Actor & Best Actress will be posted online on OUR BLOG on Friday at 12 noon.

Plays Moving Into The Semi-Finals

2009-08-13T23:23:00.014-04:00

Plays Moving Into The Semi-Finals
Monday, August 17th at 7pm:

1. Melt Into The Sun Written by Camilla Maxwell & Directed by Paula D'Alessandris (From Series C)
2. Business Or Pleasure Written by Tom Dirwachter & Directed by Sedrick Rose (From Series B)
3. Looking for Talika by Von H. Washington, Sr. & Directed by Kim Weston Moran (From Series E)
4. Jumping The Gun Written & Directed by Kyle Overstreet (From Series A)
5. Prescriptions Written & Directed by Ellen Orchid (From Series D)

Monday, August 17th at 9pm:

1. Another Chance Written by Keith R. Higgons & Directed by Becky Copley (Tie From Series B)
2. The Debt Written by Jerry Della Salla & Directed by Louis Moreno (From Series C)
3. Compubots Written & Directed by Paul Trupia (From Series D)
4. Crime Stoppers Written & Directed by Paul Schmitt (From Series E)
5. I Do...I Guess Written & Directed by Michael Musi (From Series A)
6. A Broken Barbie Written by Ree Merrill & Directed by Emily Swanson (From Series B)

Plays Moving Into Semi-Finals #3, Tuesday, August 18th at 7pm:

1. Up A River/Down An Aisle Written by Jake Lipman & Directed by Brian W. Seibert (From Series H)
2. General Admissions Written by Crish Barth & Directed by TJ Tolan (From Series F)
3. Taming the Bull Written by C.C. Corey & Directed by Rob Anderson (From Series G)
4. Stroller Wars Written & Directed by Heather Gault (From Series I)
5. Turkey Day Written & Directed by E.K. Deutsch (From Series J)

Plays Moving Into Semi-Finals #4, Tuesday, August 18th at 9pm

1. Deuteranomaly Written by Jessica Fleitman & Directed by Havilah Imfeld (From Series J)
2. Joining the Pack Written & Directed by Will Lenihan (From Series F)
3. Bird Watching Written & Directed by Jeffrey L. Hollman (From Series I)
4. A Time In South Africa Written by Ayannna Nichell (From Series G)
5. I Just Wish Written & Directed by Burt Grinstead (From Series H)

The Plays selected for the Wild Night #1, on Wednesday, August 19th at 7pm

1. At Night In Praha Written & Directed by Steve Capra
2. How To Be Cute And Break Hearts Written by Tomasso Matelli & Directed by David Nash
3. November Mourning Written by Rachel Knowles & Directed by Thomas Leverton
4. Differentiation Written by Charlotte Rahn-Lee & Directed by Smanatha Shechtman
5. Double Fear Written & Directed by Joseph Lizardi

Wild Night #2, Wednesday, August 19th at 9pm

1. Chrysalis Written by Sue Hodara & Directed by Noel Neeb
2. Beastie Busters Written by Gretchen O'Halloran & Directed by Elizabeth Bove
3. The Concrete Wall Written & Directed by J.C. Svec
4. Introductions Written & Directed by Laurence C. Schwartz
5. 16 Tons Written by Adma Harlan & Directed by Jaclyn Amor

Tickets are $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com and $25 at the Box Office
646-623-3488
At the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. Between 9th and 10th Avenue.

Lucia Kaiser receives the Riant Theatre's Pioneer of the Arts Award

2009-08-12T03:25:00.003-04:00

Lucia Kaiser receives the Riant Theatre's Pioneer of the Arts Award. Geoffrey Holder is the presenter.

The Pioneer of the Arts Awards Ceremony - Part 1

2009-08-12T03:22:00.001-04:00

The cast of Rock-A My Soul by Van Dirk Fisher performs an excerpt at the Riant Theatre's Pioneer of the Arts Awards Ceremony at the Launch Party for the Strawberry One-Act Festival.

Liz and Paul, August 15 at 7pm, Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-08-10T03:06:00.000-04:00

Anthony Fusco discusses STRAIGHT MEN ARE BITCHES TOO!

2009-08-10T03:04:00.001-04:00

Anthony Fusco discusses his play STRAIGHT MEN ARE BITCHES TOO.
Friday, August 14th at 9pm
At the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street,
Tickets: $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com
$25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488

Ellen Orchid discusses her play PRESCRIPTIONS

2009-08-10T03:01:00.000-04:00

Ellen Orchid discusses her play PRESCRIPTIONS. Featured in the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Friday, August 14th at 9pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets: $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com, $25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488.

Burt Grinstead discusses his play I JUST WISH

2009-08-10T02:58:00.000-04:00

Burt Grinstead discusses his play I JUST WISH, featured in the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Sunday, August 16 at 5pm. Tickets: $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com; $25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488

Michael Musi discusses his play I DO...I GUESS

2009-08-10T02:43:00.002-04:00

Michael Musi discusses his play I DO...I GUESS.
August 13th at 7pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's
www.therianttheatre.com
Tickets: $20 online
$25 at the Box Office

Jeffrey Hollman discusses his play BIRD WATCHING

2009-08-10T02:38:00.000-04:00

Jeffrey Hollman discusses his play BIRD WATCHING, which will be featured in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Sunday, August 16th at 7pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets: $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com; $25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488.

C.C. Corry discusses his play Taming The Bull

2009-08-09T08:52:00.002-04:00

C.C. Corry discusses his play TAMING THE BULL, which will be preformed in the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Saturday, August 14th at 9pm. Tickets: www.therianttheatre.com

Camilla Maxwell discusses Melt Into The Sun

2009-08-09T08:42:00.002-04:00

Camilla Maxwell discusses Melt Into The Sun, which will be performed at the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Friday, August 14th at 7pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets: www.therianttheatre.com

Maria Niora discussing the play Dreaming of a White House, which will be preformed in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Thursday, August 13th at 7pm

2009-08-09T08:32:00.003-04:00

Maria Niora discussing the play Dreaming of a White House, which will be preformed in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Thursday, August 13th at 7pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com, $25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488.

Playwright Sue Hodara discusses her play Chrysalis

2009-08-08T23:27:00.000-04:00

Playwright Sue Hodara discusses her play Chrysalis, which will be presented in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Friday, August 14th at 7pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office.

Playwright Ayanna Nichell discusses her play A Time In South Africa

2009-08-08T23:25:00.000-04:00

Playwright Ayanna Nichell discusses her play A Time In South Africa, which will be presented in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Saturday, August 15th at 9pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office.

Playwright Adam Harlan discusses his play 16 Tons

2009-08-08T23:19:00.000-04:00

Playwright Adam Harlan discusses his play 16 Tons, which will be presented in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Sunday, August 16th at 7pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office.

The Riant Theatre's Pioneer for the Arts Awards - Part 1

2009-08-08T09:42:00.002-04:00

The Riant Theatre's Pioneer for the Arts Awards are presented to Lucia Kaiser, CEO of Kaiser International, Inc. by Geoffrey Holder and George Faison, Tony Award Winner for THE WIZ and Emmy Award Winner for THE JOSEPHINE BAKER STORY by Irene Gandy. The cast from ROCK-A MY SOUL performs an excerpt from the musical featuring Michael Adam Leeds and Amanda Kuchinski. Song: SHINE LIGHT, SHINE BRIGHT by Van Dirk Fisher

The Strawberry One-Act Festival will celebrate its 16th Season at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, NYC from August 13th through August 23, 2009. Show times Mondays thru Friday at 7pm and 9pm. Saturday, 8/15 and Sunday, 8/16 at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm. Tickets: $20 online www.therianttheatre.com and $25 at the Box Office.

The Semi-Finals, 8/17 & 8/18 at 7pm & 9pm; Tickets: $20 online and $25 at the Box Office.

The Wild Night, 8/19 at 7pm & 9pm; Tickets: $20 online and $25 at the Box Office.

The Finals, Friday, 8/21 at 7pm; Tickets: $25 online and $30 at the Box Office
(Includes Cocktail Reception)

The Awards Ceremony and Performance, Sunday, August 23rd at 2pm; Tickets $25 online and $30 at the Box Office (Includes Cocktail Reception)

The musical ROCK-A MY SOUL by Van Dirk Fisher; Musical Director, Anthony Harris
Opens August 16th at 2pm;
Other Shows: Sundays 8/23 at 8pm; 8/30 at 5pm & 8pm
Saturdays, 8/22 & 8/29 at 1pm, 4pm & 8pm
Wednesday, 8/26, Thursday, 8/27 and Friday, 8/28 at 8pm
Tickets $25 online www.therianttheatre.com and $35 at the Box Office

November Mourning Interview

2009-08-08T04:22:00.000-04:00

November Mourning Interview which opens at the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Saturday, August 15th 9pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488.

Carol Hollenbeck discusses her play THE LIFTERS

2009-08-08T04:10:00.001-04:00

Playwright Carol Hollenbeck and Director and cast discuss her play THE LIFTERS, which will be presented on Sunday, August 16th at 7pm in the Strawberry One-Act Festival at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office 646-623-3488.

CRIME STOPPERS INTERVIEW - Actress Lucy Pohl

2009-08-08T04:05:00.001-04:00

Actresses Lucy Pohl and Jennifer Rebecca Bailey discuss the play CRIME STOPPERS by Paul Schmitt, which will be featured at the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Saturday, August 15th at 5pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office.

Interview with playwright JC Svec - THE CONCRETE WALL

2009-08-08T04:00:00.001-04:00

Playwright JC Svec discusses his play The Concrete Wall, which will be performed in the Strawberry One-Act Festival, on Thursday, August 13th at 9pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. Tickets $20 online at www.therianttheatre.com or $25 at the Box Office.

Interview with playwright Paul Trupia - COMPUBOTS

2009-08-08T03:54:00.001-04:00

Paul Trupia discusses his play COMPUBOTS, which opens at the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Friday, August 14th at 9pm at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. Tickets are $20 online at www.theriantheatre.com and $25 at the Box Office, 646-623-3488.

Interview with playwright Jessica Fleitman - DEUTERANOMALY

2009-08-08T03:47:00.001-04:00

Jessica Fleitman discusses her play DEUTERANOMALY, which will be performed in Series J on Sunday, August 16th at 9pm in the Strawberry One-Act Festival, at the Theatre at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street. For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488.

More Photos From The Launch Party for the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-08-05T04:32:00.000-04:00

The Launch Party for the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-08-05T03:22:00.000-04:00

Reading Series: KISSING LOAFERS by Brian Podnos, Monday, June 15th at 7pm

2009-06-15T00:03:00.006-04:00

The Riant Theatre Play Reading Series
Van Dirk Fisher, Founder & Artistic Director
Presents

KISSING LOAFERS

Written by Brian Podnos

Directed by Danny Mitarotondo
Featuring: Mika Gil, Sarah Kaufman, Ed Stelz & Shai Trichter

Monday, June 15, 2009 at 7PM

At the Theatre at St. Clement's Church

423 West 46th Street, between 9th & 10th Avenue
Discussion with playwright to follow reading.

Complimentary Admission with RSVP to
Riant Theatre 646-623-3488 or
email us at therianttheatre@aol.com

Jon and Eitan . . . best friends forever.
One had skills and one had not.
Then one day an Israeli girl named Lyat
joined the firm to stir things up.
Can their friendship withstand the heat?

KISSING LOAFERS

Sometimes all you have to do is get a grip and let go!

KISSING LOAFERS
A delightful comedy of humongous proportions!

Interviews with the artists in The Colors Of Life One-Acts

2009-04-16T03:42:00.001-04:00

Darryl Boone, host from Riant! Riant! Arts & Entertainment interviews the cast of GOODNIGHT LOVIN' TRAIL by John Patrick Bray.

Darryl Boone, host from Riant! Riant! Arts & Entertainment interviews an actor from FIGHTING FIRES by Von H. Washington, Sr.

Darryl Boone, host from Riant! Riant! Arts & Entertainment interviews the cast and director of CAWFFEE TAWKE by Jenifer Badamo.

Darryl Boone, host from Riant! Riant! Arts & Entertainment interviews the cast and playwright/director of BITTER APPLES by Arthur W. French, III.

Darryl Boone, host from Riant! Riant! Arts & Entertainment interviews the cast, director and playwright of ANYTHING BUT BLACK by Fred Rohan Vargas.

Darryl Boone, host from Riant! Riant! Arts & Entertainment interviews the cast, director/playwright of ALWAYS, ANASTASIA by Michele Leigh.

THE COLORS OF LIFE: ONE-ACTS
7 Plays Celebrating Our Diversity & Humanity
Opens April 16th - May 3, 2009 at the Producers Club, 358 West 44th Street, NYC

Tickets: $20.00 online at www.therianttheatre.com or by calling 646-623-3488.
Thursday & Friday at 9pm; Saturday at 5pm & 7pm; and Sunday at 5pm.

You can also follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/RiantTheatre

The Colors Of Life: 7 One-Acts Celebrating Our Humanity & Diversity. Opens April 16th at the Producers Club, 358 West 44th St.

2009-03-28T00:28:00.005-04:00

7 One-Act Plays running in repertory from April 16th through May 3, 2009
At the PRODUCERS CLUB
358 West 44th Street, between 8th & 9th Avenues.
Tickets: $20 Online at www.therianttheatre.com
CASH ONLY AT THE DOOR. 646-623-3488

Thursdays & Fridays at 9pm
Goodnight Lovin' Trail by John Patrick Bray
Bitter Apples by Arthur W. French, III
Fighting Fires by Von H. Washington, Sr.
Anything But Black by Fred Rohan Vargas

Saturdays at 5pm
Anything But Black by Fred Rohan Vargas
Always Anastasia by Michele Leigh
Goodnight Lovin' Trail by John Patrick Bray
Bitter Apples by Arthur W. French, III

Saturdays at 7pm
Goodnight Lovin' Trail by John Patrick Bray
Bitter Apples by Arthur W. French, III
Fighting Fires by Von H. Washington, Sr.
Cawffee Tawk by Jenifer Badamo (April 18th & 25th)
Love - This Game Is Real by Tremane Hickman (May 2nd Only)

Sundays at 5pm
Anything But Black by Fred Rohan Vargas
Always Anastasia by Michele Leigh
Fighting Fires by Von H. Washington, Sr.
Cawffee Tawk by Jenifer Badamo (April 19th & 26th)
Love - This Game Is Real by Tremane Hickman (May 3rd Only)

ALWAYS ANASTASIA by Michele Leigh. A disillusioned cop on the verge of a nervousbreakdown believes he is being tormented by a narcissistic psychopath.

ANYTHING BUT BLACK by Fred Rohan Vargas. An exchange in the lounge of a suburban cigar shop reveals flaws in two best friend’s perception of one another.

BITTER APPLES by Arthur W. French, III. Temptation is in the air as singles mingle while having lunch in the park.

CAWFFEE TAWK by Jenifer Badamo. A woman is blackmailed and must make a decision that will change her life forever.

FIGHTING FIRES by Von H. Washington, Sr. On the eve of his 18th birthday, a young man kidnaps his absentee father and demands the attention he believes was owed him during his development years.

GOODNIGHT LOVIN’ TRAIL by John Patrick Bray. At a truck stop diner in West Texas, two wounded strangers find redemption in each other’s eyes while discussing a stolen guitar. And the beat plays on.

LOVE – THIS GAME IS REAL by Tremane Hickman. A poetic story about a girl and a guy anxiously waiting to play the game of love without getting played.

A Riant Theatre Production
Also in production FOUR GORN CONCLUSIONS
4 One-Act Plays By Albi Gorn.
Directed by Mark Cirnigliaro
April 16 - May 3, 2009
Thursdays & Fridays at 7pm
Saturdays at 9pm; Sundays at 3pm
Tickets: $20.00 http://www.therianttheatre.com/
Cash Only At The Door. 646-623-3488

Scripts Submissions for Summer Strawberry One-Act Festival 2009 - Deadline April 30th

2009-03-24T21:52:00.003-04:00

SCRIPT SUBMISSIONS FOR THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL

DEADLINE APRIL 30TH

The 16th Annual Strawberry One-Act Festival will be at the The Theatre at St. Clements, 423 West 46th Street, NYC, from August 13th - August 23, 2009. The winner of the BEST PLAY receives $1,500 and a development deal to have a full length play produced by the Riant Theatre. Awards also presented to the BEST DIRECTOR, BEST ACTOR and BEST ACTRESS.

Click here to obtain an application.

FOUR GORN CONCLUSIONS by Albi Gorn will open at the Producer's Club, 358 West 44th St, April 16th at 7pm

2009-03-14T13:25:00.006-04:00

FOUR GORN CONCLUSIONS by Albi Gorn is a whimsical look at the unlikely way that couples form and navigate relationships. The quirky turns that the plays make echo the unpredictable course of love, and the humor springs from the unique ways in which we fit our dysfunctionalities together, like interlocking pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. The four one-act plays: DOUBLE DATE, THE RUB, VERBATIM and IT'S ABOUT FORGIVENESS (winner of the Strawberry One-Act Festival, Winter 2006) were directed by Mark Cirnigliaro. The show opens at The Producer's Club, 358 West 44th Street, between 8th & 9th Avenue.

Show times: Thursday and Friday at 7pm; Saturdays at 9pm and Sundays at 3pm
Tickets: $20.00 Available online at www.therianttheatre.com. CASH ONLY AT THE DOOR.

To learn more about the artists click here.

The Winners of the Winter 2009 Strawberry One-Act Festival Are:

2009-02-22T22:20:00.010-05:00

The Best Play
FREE COUNTRY by Steve Monarque

Best Director
Alyse Rothman for PEAR

Best Actor
David Fielder in DR. FREEMAN & HILDA

Best Actress
Scout Durwood in ON MY REEL: REAL LIFE IN REALITY TV

The 4 Plays Performing At The Awards Ceremony & Performance for the Strawberry One-Act Festival Are:

2009-02-22T00:09:00.003-05:00

The Nominees for BEST PLAY:

1. DAILY SOUNDS Written by Jay Prasad

2. ON MY REEL: Real LIfe In Reality TV Written by Scout Durwood

3. FREE COUNTRY Written by Steve Monarque

4. PEAR Written by Carol Paik

The Awards Ceremony & Performance for the
STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL
Sunday, February 22nd at 2PM
At the American Theatre for Actors
314 West 54th Street, between 8th & 9th Avenue
Tickets: $25.00
www.therianttheatre.com

The Nominees for the Strawberry One-Act Festival Are . . .

2009-02-20T04:45:00.003-05:00

The nominees for BEST DIRECTOR are:

1. V.V. Gil for THE CUPCAKE DIET
2. Samantha Lee Manas for ANYONE, ANYWHERE
3. Danny Mitarotondo for SEA
4. Alyse Rothman for PEAR
5. Lucile Scott for ON MY REEL
6. Sherry Teitelbaum for DR. FREEMAN & HILDA

The nominees for BEST ACTOR are:

1. Joe Coburn (Chad) in THE CRIMSON LINE
2. David Fielder (Dr. Freeman) in DR. FREEMAN & HILDA
3. Gannon Forrester (Jack Oliver) in LUCAS KISSES PAL'S GAL
4. Burt Harris (Homeless Man) in STEEL OR PRETZELS
5. Armando Merlo (Todd) in FREE COUNTRY
6. Matt Skibiak (Administrator) in THE LOVE PERMIT

The nominees for BEST ACTRESS are:

1. Gloria M. Buccino (Lisa) in FREE COUNTRY
2. Scout Durwood (Performer) in ON MY REEL: REAL LIFE IN REALITY TV
3. Colleen Fee (Madeline) in FAN-BOY
4. Jennie Franks (Hilda) in DR. FREEMAN & HILDA
5. Johnnie Mae (Hilda) in TEA UNDER THE LILAC TREE
6. Amie Tedesco (Kate) in NO SEX IN THE CITY

The 4 nominees for BEST PLAY that will perform at the Awards Ceremony will be announced shortly after the FINALS on Saturday, February 21st.

The winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony & Performance for the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Sunday, February 22, 2009 at 2PM at the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street.
Tickets: $25 www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488
Dress Code: Formal

All nominees should email the Riant at therianttheatre@aol.com or call 646-623-3488 to secure your complimentary ticket and other details.

Plays Moving To The Finals on Saturday, February 21st at 1PM

2009-02-19T01:40:00.008-05:00

The Finals for the Strawberry One-Act Festival:
Saturday, February 21st at 1pm
At the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC.

1. The Parking Lot Written by Holly Hunt & Directed by Susan Tromans (15 min) (From Wild Night #2 tie)
2. Pear Written by Carol Paik & Directed by Alyse Rothman (15 min) (From Wild Night #2 tie)
3. Dr. Freeman & Hilda Written by Jennie Franks & Directed by Sherry Teitelbaum (From Semi-Finals #1) (30 min)
4. The Crimson Line Written & Directed by David Fulco (From Semi-Finals #2) (15 min)
5. Free Country Written by Steve Monarque (20 min) (From Semi-Finals #3 - Tied)
6. On My Reel: Real Life In Reality TV Written by Scout Durwood (30 min) (From Semi-Finals #3 - Tied)
7. The Cupcake Diet Written by V. V. Gil (30 min) (From Semi-Finals #4)
8. Daily Sounds Written by Jay Prasad & Directed by Evan Papas (30 Min) (From Wild Night #1)

Tickets: $25.00 (Includes reception)
For tickets go to http://www.therianttheatre.com/ or call 646-623-3488

The Nominees for Best Director, Best Actor & Best Actress will be posted by 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 20th.

The Plays Moving To The Semi Finals Are...

2009-02-14T02:49:00.009-05:00

The Plays moving to the Semi-Finals #1 on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. are:

1. Fan-Boy by Megan Sass (From Series A) (Photo Above)
2. Steel Or Pretzels by Mara Gilbert (From Series B)
3. Game Point Deuce by John William Schiffbauer (From Series C)
4. Then Or Now by Paul Trupia (From Series E)
5. Dr. Freeman & Hilda by Jennie Franks (From Series D)

The Plays moving to the Semi-Finals #2 on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 9:30 p.m. are:

1. The Crimson Line by David Fulco (From Series D)
2. Pear by Carol Paik (From Series B)
3. My Talk With God by Andy Daniel (From Series C)
4. No Sex In The City by Elisabeth Kent (From Series A)
5. Valentine's Day by Joseph Lizardi (From Series E) (Photo Above)

Semi-Finals #3 on Thursday, February 19th at 7:30 p.m.

1. Lucas Kisses Pal's Gal by Todd Gray (From Series H)
2. The Reading Birds of Tinos by Elizabeth Birkenmeier (From Series G)

3. On My Reel: Real Life In Realty TV by Scout Durwood (From Series I)

4. Free Country by Steve Monarque (From Series F) (Photo Above)

Semi-Finals #4 on Thursday, February 19th at 9:30 p.m.

1. Sea by Danny Mitarotondo (From Series I)
2. Anyone, Anywhere by Amanda Fleming (From Series H) (Photo Above)
3. The Love Permit by Christopher Ludgate (From Series G)

4. The Cupcake Diet by V. V. Gil (From Series F)

5. Tea Under The Lilac Tree by Melissa Kuch (From Series I)

Wild Night #1 on Friday, February 20th at 7:30 p.m.

1. Dray Horse by Deirdre Dowling
2. Daily Sounds by Jay Prasad
3. Stoop by Caroline V. McGraw
4. Burden Me by Michael Weems

Wild Night #2 on Friday, February 20th at 9:30 p.m.

1. The Parking Lot by Holly Hunt
2. I Knew You'd Say That by John Kearns
3. Halloween by Gabrielle Fox
4. Rise and Shine by Azizah Rowen

One play from each semi-finals and wild night will advance to the Finals on Saturday, February 21st at 1pm. Tickets: $25 (Includes reception.)

The nominees for Best Director, Best Actor & Best Actress will be posted on Friday, February 20th by 9:00 a.m.
For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488.
The performances are at the American Theater for Actors,

314 West 54th Street, 2nd Floor, NYC.
The Awards Ceremony and Performance is on Sunday, February 22nd at 2pm
Tickets: $25

Interview with artists in Series I from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T20:38:00.004-05:00

Interview with the artists from the play Blue Streak by Carston Turner

Interview with the artists from the play TEA UNDER THE LILLAC TREE by Mellissa Kuch

Interview with the artists from the play SEA by Danny Mitarotondo

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488

Interview with artists in Series G from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T20:32:00.002-05:00

Interview with the artists from the play HALLOWEEN by Gabrielle Fox

Interview with the artists from the play THE LOVE PERMIT by Christopher Ludgate

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488
Series G: February 14th & 15th at 9pm
At the American Theater for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC

Interview with artists in Series H from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T20:19:00.005-05:00

Interview with the playwright and actor from RISE AND SHINE by Azizah Rowen

http://www.youtube.com/v/hD1FmTfxjSg&hl=en&fs=1">

Interview with artists in Series F from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T16:17:00.004-05:00

Interview with the artists from MY KILLER, MY KID by Gerty Agoston

Interview with the artists from FREE COUNTRY by Steve Monarque

Interview with the artists from the play DRAY HORSE by Deirdre Dowling

Interview with the artists from the play THE CUPCAKE DIET by V. V. Gil

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488
Series F: February 14th & 15th at 7pm
At the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC

Interview with artists in Series E from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T16:08:00.002-05:00

Interview with the artists from the play ONE BOX AT A TIME by Peter Andrews

Interview with the artists from the play THEN OR NOW by Paul Trupia

Interview with the artists from the play VALENTINE'S DAY by Joseph Lizardi

Interview with the artists from the play BURDEN ME by Michael Weems

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488
Series E: February 14th & 15th at 5pm
At the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC

Interviews with artists in Series D of the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T15:49:00.006-05:00

Interview with the artists from the play SECOND TIME AROUND by Art Brown

Interview with the director from the play DR. FREEMAN & HILDA by Jennie Franks

Interview with artists from the play THE CRIMSON LINE by David Fulco

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488

Interview with artists in Series C from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T03:12:00.010-05:00

Interview with artists in the play CONNECTION by Michelle Weilert

Interview with the artists in the play I KNEW YOU'D SAY THAT by John Kearns

Interview with the artists in the play MY TALK WITH GOD by Andy Daniel

The Riant Theatre's Strawberry One-Act Festival
Series C: February 14th & 15th at 1pm
At the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC
Tickets: www.therianttheater.com or 646-623-3488

Interview with artists in Series B from the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T02:57:00.003-05:00

Interview with the artists from the play STOOP by Caroline V. McGraw

Interview with the artists from the play PEAR by Carol Paik

Interview with the artists from the play STEEL OR PRETZELS by Mara Gilbert

The Riant Theatre's Strawberry One-Act Festival
Series B, February 12th & 13th at 9:30 p.m. at
The American Theater for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC
Tickets: 646-623-3488 or www.therianttheatre.com

Interviews with the artists in Series A of the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2009-02-06T02:31:00.006-05:00

Interview with the artists in the one act play THE PARKING LOT by Holly Hunt.

Interview with the artists in the one act play FAN-BOY by Megan Sass

Interview with artists in the one act play NO SEX IN THE CITY by Elisabeth Kent

Interview with the artists in the one act play DAILY SOUNDS by Jay Prasad

The Riant Theatre's Strawberry One-Act Festival
Series A: February 12th & 13th at 7:30 p.m. at the American Theater for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC. Tickets: www.therianttheatre.com or 646-623-3488

BROADWAY & SOAP STARS GRACE THE STAGE AT THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL

2009-02-01T01:13:00.003-05:00

BROADWAY & SOAP STARS GRACE THE STAGE
AT THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL
AS THE RIANT THEATRE CELEBRATES ITS 15TH SEASON

THE RIANT THEATRE’S STRAWBERRY ONE ACT FESTIVAL

February 12th – February 22nd (Monday through Friday at 7:00pm & 9:00pm; Sat & Sun at 1pm, 3pm, 5pm, 7pm & 9pm)
At the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, between 8th & 9th Avenues.

Reservations: 646-623-3488 or online at www.therianttheatre.com. Tickets: $20.00
The Finals, February 21st at 1pm. Tickets: $25.00 (Price includes reception during intermission.)
The Awards Ceremony & Performance will be on Sunday, February 22nd at 2pm. Tickets: $25.00.

Alexio Barboza, who played young Simba in Disney's THE LION KING on Broadway and Laura Carrington, who played the headstrong Lisa on ONE LIFE TO LIVE and the lovable Dr. Simone on GENERAL HOSPITAL, will play son and mother respectively in CONNECTION by Michelle Weilert in the Strawberry One-Act Festival on Saturday, February 14th & Sunday, February 15th at 1pm. The play is being directed by Rob Anderson whose cinematography of New York scenes have appeared on Law & Order, Seinfeld, Gossip Girls, The Bronx Is Burning and Frank TV. In the age of technology and internet dating, CONNECTION deals with a young man, Brian, played by Alexio Barboza, coming to terms with his identity and the question that many youth deal with today: Is where you come from who you are? Brian asks himselof this question when his origins are revealed.

The Strawberry One-Act Festival opens on February 12th with 2 different shows at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, NYC, between 8th & 9th Avenue. Tickets are $20 & $25. For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488.

Opening night features 4 one-act plays in Series A, February 12th & 13th at 7:30 p.m.; THE PARKING LOT written by Holly Hunt & directed by Susan Tromans; FAN-BOY written by Megan Sass & directed by Marie Buck; NO SEX IN THE CITY written by Elisabeth Kent & directed by Sara Schabach; and DAILY SOUNDS written by Jay Prasad & directed by Evan Pappas.

Series B, February 12th & 13th at 9:30 p.m.; STOOP written by Caroline V. McGraw & directed by Erica Cardwell, PEAR by Carol Paik & directed by Alyse Rothman, and STEEL OR PRETZELS written by Mara Gilbert & directed by Nonie Gilbert.

To see the full schedule of plays go to www.therianttheatre.com

The Strawberry Festival offers a wonderful opportunity for theatre goers to see 34 plays from all over the country and as far away as Ireland (DRAY HORSE - Series F 2/14 & 2/15 at 7pm) in 11 days. At each performance plays are voted on by the audience as well as the theatre's judges and advance to the semi-finals and then the finals. The four BEST PLAYS are presented at the AWARDS CEREMONY & PERFORMANCE on Sunday, February 22nd at 2pm, where awards will be presented to the Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director and Best Play. The playwright of the winning play wins $1,500.00 and a development deal to have a full-length play produced by the Riant Theatre. Tickets for the Awards Ceremony are $25.

Over the 15 years that the Riant has been presenting the bi-annual Strawberry Festival, (it's also presented in the summer), several plays have been selected and published in our 5 anthologies THE BEST PLAYS FROM THE STRAWBERRY ONE-ACT FESTIVAL, which are available at the Drama Book Shop, www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com and other stores nationwide. As a result, several plays have been granted permission to be performed in festivals across the country, London and Canada.

The Riant Theatre is happy that it has been able to use the Strawberry One-Act Festival to help it fulfill it's mission of providing a nurturing environment to develop new plays and outstanding artists. Artist Director, Van Dirk Fisher says, "We are very proud of this accomplishment and I'm always delighted when I learn that a play that was seen in the festival has been picked up by a film producer and made into a short or feature film. But competition aside, the festival is a wonderful opportunity for all the artist to network and build bridges for future projects." Some of our alumni include celebrity biographer Charles Higham, whose biography "Howard Hughes: The Untold Story," was used for the film the Aviator starring Leonardo DiCaprio; and actor/director Chaz Palminteri.

The Winter Strawberry One-Act Festival - Deadline October 30, 2008

2008-09-26T17:42:00.002-04:00

The Riant Theatre’s Strawberry One-Act Festival from February 9 – February 22, 2009

The Riant Theatre is accepting submissions of 15 – 30 minutes one-act plays. Artistic Director, Van Dirk Fisher. Plays must have their own director and cast and be able to be presented from February 9 – 22, 2009. Plays will be performed at the American Theatre for Actors. The Playwright with the Best Play will receive a prize of $1,500 and development deal. Awards of $150 will also be given to Best Director, Best Actor & Actress. Some of the plays in the festival will be considered for publication in the anthology series: The Best Plays From The Strawberry One-Act Festival: Volume 5. For an application visit the website: www.therianttheatre.com or send a SASE. The Riant Theatre, P.O. Box 1902, NY, NY 10013, Attn: The Strawberry One-Act Festival (Winter). Deadline: October 30^th. Volunteers and Interns send resumes. Further info at http://therianttheatre.blogspot.com and www.myspace.com/the1toknownow. Plays accepted for the festival must pay a Participation Fee of $250, which goes towards publicity, the Kick Off Party and 2 tickets to the Awards Ceremony.

And the Winner Is...

2008-08-11T10:08:00.002-04:00

The Winners of the Strawberry One-Act Festival Are . . .

BEST PLAY
The Seed by David Pumo

BEST DIRECTOR
David Gallic for Meatloaf in the Moonlight

BEST ACTOR
Kenya Capers in Clash & Learn: Str8 vs. Gay

BEST ACTRESS
Zoee Garza in Meatloaf in the Moonlight

See the plays online at www.therianttheatre.com/video

Interviews with the nominees from the Strawberry One-Act Festival Summer 2008

2008-08-08T12:19:00.005-04:00

Join us Saturday, August 9, 2008 at 8pm at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, as the Riant Theatre presents the Strawberry One-Act Festival Awards Ceremony & Performance. Tickets: $35.00 Dress Code: Formal

You may view the interviews of the nominees for Best Play, Best Director, Best Actor & Best Actress below. If you wish to view their performances online you can pay to view the plays by categories (The Nominees for Best Actor, etc.) at www.therianttheatre.com/video

Karen Page from Riant, Riant Arts & Entertainment interviews Josh Sohn, whose play JUMP was nominated for BEST PLAY.

Karen Page interviews Dan Tenzer, Best Actor nominee from THIS BASEMENT.

Karen Page interviews Dan Rogers, Best Director nominee for CLAP ON, CLAP OFF

Karen Page interviews David Pumo, whose play THE SEED is nominated for Best Play and Moe Bertran, Best Actor nominee for the same play.

Karen Page interviews Ron Kuriloff, Best Actor nominee for PAINTING TOMATOES.

Karen Page interviews Margie Ferris, Best Actress nominee for DARCY & DUKE.

Karen Page interviews Meloday Faith Federer, Best Actress nominee for GATE 48B.

Karen Page interviews Kenya Capers, Best Actor nominee for CLASH & LEARN: STR8 vs. GAY.

Karen Page interviews Zoee Garza, Best Actress nominee and David Gallic, Best Director and Best Play nominee for MEATLOAF IN THE MOONLIGHT.

The Nominees for the Summer 2008 Strawberry One-Act Festival Are...

2008-08-05T12:35:00.004-04:00

Nominees For Best Play

1. Jump by Josh Sohn
2. Meatloaf in the Moonlight by David Gallic
3. Painting Tomatoes by Jais Brohinsky
4. The Seed by David Pumo

Nominees For Best Director

1. Cohen Ambrose for Painting Tomatoes
2. Donna Jean Fogel for The Seed
3. David Gallic for Meatloaf in the Moonlight
4. Dan Rogers for Clap On, Clap Off
5. Gwenevere Sisco for The Threadbare Sex
6. Alec Strum for Say It's Raining

Nominees For Best Actor

1. Moe Bertran (John) in The Seed
2. Kenya Capers (Chad James) in Clash & Learn: Str8 vs. Gay
3. Tom Coppola (Duke) in Darcy & Duke
4. Luke Harlan (Colin) in Blood Thinner
5. Ronald Kuriloff (Sol) in Painting Tomatoes
6. Danny Tenzer (Evan) in This Basement

Nominees For Best Actress

1. Melody Faith Federer (Jodie) in Gate 48B
2. Margie Ferris (Darcy) in Darcy & Duke
3. Zoee Garza (Jasmine) in Meatloaf in the Moonlight
4. Jennifer Lucas (Ellen) in You Stole My Script
5. Sarah Mindlin (Amy Everett) in At The Everett's
6. Emma Tattenbaum-Fine (Ella) in Painting Tomatoes

The interviews with the nominees will be on Thursday, August 7th from 6pm - 8pm at the Riant Studios. To set up an interview call 646-623-3488.

The Awards Ceremony and Performance will be at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th on Saturday, August 9th at 8pm. Tickets are $35.00 Dress Code: Evening Wear. For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488. Or at the box office at Symphony Space.

Plays Moving to the Awards Ceremony

2008-08-04T02:27:00.002-04:00

The Four Plays Moving To The Awards Ceremony At The Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space at 2537 Broadway at 95th Street on Saturday, August 9th at 8pm are:

1. Jump by Josh Sohn

2. Meatloaf in the Moonlight by David Gallic

3. Painting Tomatoes by Jais Brohinsky

4. The Seed by David Pumo

The nominees for Best Director, Best Actor and Best Actress will be posted at noon on Tuesday, August 5, 2008.

The Plays Moving Into The Finals Are...

2008-08-03T02:05:00.004-04:00

The Finals are at 1pm on Sunday, August 3rd

1. The Seed by David Pumo

2. Jump by Josh Sohn

3. Painting Tomatoes by Jais Brohinsky

4. Clash and Learn: Str8 vs. Gay

5. The Threadbare Sex by Mia Romero

6. Meatloaf in the Moonlight by David Gallic

Playwrights who are in the festival will each receive 1 comp to attend the festival and to cast their vote to help determine the winner. Playwrights Votes will count for 80% of the Vote. Sorry for this late posting, but an email was sent to our email list as well as postings on the Strawberry One-Act Festival Page and Ticket Page stating the Finalists. We were unable to access our blog for 2 days because someone had marked our blog as potentially being SPAM. I hope that every gets this posting and are able to attend.

Thank you.

The Plays Moving To The Semi Finals & Wild Night Are...

2008-07-28T02:13:00.002-04:00

The Plays Moving To The Semi-Finals on Wednesday, July 30th at 7pm are:

1. Breaking Up With My Mother by Collete Herbstman (From Series A)
2. This Basement by Bethann Snow (From Series C)
3. You Stole My Script by Isaac S. Shapiro (From Series B)
4. Meatloaf In The Moonlight by David Gallic (From Series D)
5. Darcy & Duke by Gabrielle Fox (From Series E)

The Plays Moving To The Semi-Finals on Wednesday, July 30th at 9pm are:

1. The Threadbare Sex by Mia Romero (From Series B - Tied)
2. Joseph by Sarah b. Wagner (From Series D)
3. The Bongo Bounce by Walter Thinnes (From Series A)
4. Clap On, Clap Off by Aidan Levy (From Series C)
5. Henry V and Jesus Were Black... (From Series E)

The Plays Moving To The Semi-Finals on Thursday, July 31st at 7pm are:

1. Gate 48B by Michelle Weilert (From Series F)
2. A Few Moments At Myspace Anonymous by Chip Deffaa (From Series G)
3. Say It's Raining by Lucas Kavner (From Series H)
4. Painting Tomatoes by Jais Brohinsky (From Series I)

The Plays Moving To The Semi-Finals on Thursday, July 31st at 9pm are:

1. Contact Sport by David Risk (From Series B - Tied)
2. Brunch Brothers by Brian Bartels (From Series I)
3. Dove For Sale by Kelly Diegnan (From Series F)
4. My Very Elegant Mother by James Corey Kaufman (From Series G)
5. The Seed by David Pumo (From Series H)

The Plays Moving to the Wild Night on Friday, August 1st at 7pm are:

1. Babe, Inc. by Rosemary Zibart
2. Emancipation by Eric C. Jones
3. Jump by Josh Sohn
4. Hedge Fund Interview by Roy Pierson

The Plays Moving to the Wild Night on Friday, August 1st at 9pm are:

1. Love Test by Scott Saffer
2. Coming Out Party by Albi Gorn
3. Clash & Learn: Str8 vs. Gay by Ervon Neely
4. At The Everett's by Peter Paulino
At the Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue, Entrance on 25th Street, between 3rd Avenue and Lexington Avenue. Tickets: $20.00
For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com

Interviews with some of the artists in Rock-A My Soul

2008-07-19T01:44:00.005-04:00

Interview with Erica Lustig, Abigail Taylor, Adam Michaels, Ryan David LaMont, Danea Robinson, Boncilla Lewis, Chevon Smith, Andrew Horton & Tracy Rawles. To be performed on Saturday, August 2nd at 1pm, 4pm & 8pm and Sunday, August 3rd at 6pm at the Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue, Entrance on 25th Street, between 3rd Avenue and Lexington Avenue.

Interviews with the artists in the Strawberry One-Act Festival (July 24th - August 9th)

2008-07-19T00:26:00.000-04:00

Interviews with artists in Series F: DOVE FOR SALE, GATE 48B, BY THE POOL, to be performed on July 26th & 27th at 7pm at the Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue, Entrance on 25th Street, between 3rd Avenue and Lexington.

Interviews with artist in Series H: IT'S ONLY A BOOTY, AT THE EVERETT'S and THE SEED on July 26th & 27th at 9pm.

Interviews with artists in Series I: THE BRUNCH BROTHERS, BIG NAKED FEET, CLASH & LEARN: STR8 vs. GAY and PAINTING TOMATOES. Performing July 28th & 29th at 9pm

Interviews with the artists in the Strawberry One-Act Festival (July 24th - August 9th)

2008-07-18T14:36:00.001-04:00

Interview with artists in JUMP, NUMB, CLAP ON, CLAP OFF and THIS BASEMENT, to be performed in Series C on July 26th & 27th at 1pm at the Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue, Entrance on 25th Street, between 3rd Avenue and Lexington Avenue, in NYC.

Interviews with artists in EMANCIPATION in Series D, to be performed July 26th & 27th at 3pm.

Interview with artists in Series E: HENRY V AND JESUS WERE BLACK..., THE LAST WORD, DARCY & DUKE, BABE, INC. to be performed on July 26th & 27th at 5pm.

Interviews with the artists in the Strawberry One-Act Festival (July 24th - August 9th)

2008-07-18T13:28:00.000-04:00

An interview with the artists in the one-act play AT THE EVERETT'S, to be presented in the Strawberry One-Act Festival, July 28th & 29th at 7pm at the Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue, entrance on 25th Street, between 3rd Avenue and Lexington Avenue.

An interview with the artists in LOVE TEST, to be performed in Series A on July 24th & 25th at 7pm.

An interview with the artist in THE BONGO BOUNCE, to be performed in Series A on July 24th & 25th at 7pm.

Interview with the artists in SAM & CHARLIE, to be performed in Series B on July 24th & 25th at 9pm.

Interview with the artists in CONTACT SPORT, to be performed in Series B on July 24th & 25th at 9pm.

Interview with the artists in YOU STOLE MY SCRIPT, to be performed in Series B on July 24th & 25th at 9pm.

Rock-A My Soul Musical Audtions - May 7th & 8th

2008-04-27T23:31:00.000-04:00

Rock-A-My Soul (Musical Auditions)
The Riant Theatre will be holding auditions for Rock-A-My Soul In The Bosom Of Abraham, a rock/gospel musical at Champion Studios, 257 West 39th Street, 14th Floor, between 7th & 8th Avenue on Wednesday, May 7th 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.; Thurs May 8th 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Roles: All characters are southerners. Susan Smith: (age 20s), white, dramatic role (soprano/belt), Dan Smith: (age 20s), white, her ex-husband (lead, tenor/belt), Mrs. Lane: (age 40-55), white, Susan's mother (lead, soprano/belt), Bobby: (20-30), white, Susan's boyfriend, rugged, a womanizer; Taylor Cooper: (age 20-30) black, accused of carjacking (lead, lyric baritone/tenor); Mrs. Cooper: (age 50s) his mother (lead, belt soprano, gospel); Julie: (age 20s), Taylor's girlfriend, black, (lead, soprano/belt); Mr. & Mrs. Johnson: (age 40s) black, Julie's parents, (singers); Abraham Cooper: (age 30s) black, Cooper's step brother, an attorney, (lead, tenor, dramatic role); Reverend Boyd: (age 40s) black, baritone/belt; Chorus (singers). Prepare 2 songs acappella, 1 legit and 1 gospel, r&b or rock, bring pix & resume. Performance dates August 2nd & 3rd at the Baruch Performing Arts Center. Additional shows will be added. Pictures & Resumes may be emailed to therianttheatre@aol.com. Some pay, no fee, Non-Equity. Interns may apply by visiting website at http://therianttheatre.com/management.html. www.myspace.com/the1toknownow

ROCK-A MY SOUL, the musical Auditions

2008-04-11T12:56:00.001-04:00

The Riant Theatre will be holding auditions for Rock-A-My Soul In The Bosom Of Abraham, a rock/gospel musical at 440 Studios, 440 Lafayette St, 3 Floor, Studio 3E, between Astor Place and East 4th Street (#6 Train to Astor Place or R Train to 8th Street) on Mon April 21st 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.; Tues April 22nd 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Roles: All characters are southerners. Susan Smith: (age 20s), white, dramatic role (soprano/belt), Dan Smith: (age 20s), white, her ex-husband (lead, tenor/belt), Mrs. Lane: (age 40-55), white, Susan's mother (lead, soprano/belt), Bobby: (20-30), white, Susan's boyfriend, rugged, a womanizer; Taylor Cooper: (age 20-30) black, accused of carjacking (lead, lyric baritone/tenor); Mrs. Cooper: (age 50s) his mother (lead, belt soprano, gospel); Julie: (age 20s), Taylor's girlfriend, black, (lead, soprano/belt); Mr. & Mrs. Johnson: (age 40s) black, Julie's parents, (singers); Abraham Cooper: (age 30s) black, Cooper's step brother, an attorney, (lead, tenor, dramatic role); Reverend Boyd: (age 40s) black, baritone/belt; Chorus (singers). Prepare 2 songs acappella, 1 legit and 1 gospel, r&b or rock, bring pix & resume. Performance dates August 2nd & 3rd at the Baruch Performing Arts Center. Additional shows will be added. Pictures & Resumes may be emailed to therianttheatre@aol.com. Some pay, no fee, Non-Equity. Interns may apply by visiting website at http://therianttheatre.com/management.html. www.myspace.com/the1toknownow

The Winners of the Strawberry One-Act Festival Winter 2008

2008-02-25T16:41:00.001-05:00

The Best Play Award
COLD APRIL by John P. McEneny

The Best Director Award
Sean Kenealy for WHAT CHEER, IOWA

The Best Actor Award
Zach Harvey in WHAT CHEER, IOWA

The Best Actress Award
Nicole Rose in Jack

The Nominees for the Awards Ceremony & Perofrmance on Sunday, February 24th at 3pm at the American Theatre for Actors

2008-02-22T11:27:00.004-05:00

THE NOMINEES FOR BEST PLAY ARE:

1) RODWART'S WORLD by Colette Herbtsman

2) AN ACUTE TRIANGLE by Rosemary Martino

3) WHAT CHEER, IOWA by Jeff Belanger

4) COLD APRIL by John P. McEneny

THE NOMINEES FOR BEST DIRECTOR ARE:

1) Eli Clark for INTERROGATION ROOM

2) Sean Kenealy for WHAT CHEER, IOWA

3) Vanessa Lozano for MARKED

4) Samantha Manas for RODWART'S WORLD

5) John P. McEneny for COLD APRIL

6) Lucy Skeen for THIS QUIET HOUSE

THE NOMINEES FOR BEST ACTOR ARE:

1) Chad Callaghan (Jeff) in INTERROGATION ROOM

2) Zach Harvey (James) in WHAT CHEER, IOWA

3) Dru Johnston (Rodwart) in RODWART'S WORLD

4) Eric Lockley (Jack) in JACK

5) Sean Phillips (Man, Hutu Militia) in COLD APRIL

6) Michael Smith Rivera (Grandma Jane, Fred) in CAN CHEESE DOODLES DO YOU HARM?

THE NOMINEES FOR BEST ACTRESS ARE:

1) Denise Collins (Mother) in THIS QUIET HOUSE

2) Laura Dillman (Bess) in CAN CHEESE DOODLES DO YOU HARM?

3) Laura Harrison (Eva) in WHAT CHEER, IOWA

4) Erica McLaughlin (Mosi) in COLD APRIL

5) Susan Perry (Lana) in MARKED

6) Nicole Rose (Ma) in JACK

THE 4 NOMINEES FOR BEST PLAY will be performed at the Awards Ceremony.

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com. Tickets: $35.00 Cash Only at the DOOR. 2:30 p.m. the Reception. 3:00 p.m. the Show Begins.

Plays moving into the Finals for the Strawberry One-Act Festival

2008-02-20T05:43:00.005-05:00

The Finals are Friday, February 22nd at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 23rd at 2:00 p.m.

1) An Acute Triangle by Rosemary Martino (From Wild Night #1)

2) Rodwart's World by Colette Herbstman (From Semi-Finals #3)

3) What Cheer, Iowa by Jeff Belanger (From Semi-Finals #4)

4) Cold April by John P. McEneny (From Semi-Finals #1)

5) Marked by Cassandra Lewis (From Wild Night #2)

6) Can Cheese Doodles Do You Harm? by Jack Slattery (From Semi-Finals #2)

Tickets are $25.00 (Includes reception)

The Plays Moving to the Wild Night, Thursday, 2/21

2008-02-19T09:48:00.001-05:00

Wild Night #1, Thursday, February 21st at 7:30 p.m.

1) Always Anastasia by Michele Leigh

2) The Muse by Rudy Cecera

3) I Dreamt of Dying by Katie Lemos

4) An Acute Triangle by Rosemary Martino

5) Baby Talk by Irwin Nayman

6) Luna by Carolyn Fischer

Wild Night #2, Thursday, February 21st at 9:30 p.m.

1) Headshot by Patrick Link

2) Blind Date by Bryan Radtke

3) This Quiet House by Toby Levin

4) A Real Live Cuban by Diana Hird

5) Marked by Cassandra Lewis

One play from each Wild Night will move on to the Finals on Friday, 2/22 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, 2/23 at 2pm.

The Plays moving to Semi-Finals #3 & #4 Are...

2008-02-18T01:47:00.001-05:00

Semi-Finals # 3, Tues. 2/19 & Wed. 2/20 at 7:30 p.m.

1) What Goes Around by Soneela Nankani

2) Pivot by Zachary Rouse

3) Mulatto's Dilemma by Juliette Fairley

4) Rodwart's World by Colette Herbstman

5) Ladies' Night by Don Creedon

Semi-Finals #4, Tues 2/19 & Wed. 2/20 at 9:30 p.m.

1) Saturday with the Georges

2) The Heist by Pamela Scott

3) Jack by Daren Taylor

4) What Cheer, Iowa by Jeff Belanger

5) Hurray America by Seth Michael May

All shows are at the American Theatre for Actors, 314 West 54th Street, 2nd Floor
646-623-3488 or order tickets online at www.therianttheatre.com

Tickets: $20.00

Plays moving into the Semi-Finals #1 & #2 from Series A, B, C & D are...

2008-02-16T02:31:00.001-05:00

Semi-Finals #1 - Sunday, 2/17 & Monday, 2/18 at 7:30 p.m.

1. COREY by Melvin James Shadd
2. VERBATIM by Albi Gorn
3. COLD APRIL by John P. McEneny
4. RISKIN & KOHN by Edward Francis Hudaverdi

Semi-Finals #2 - Sunday, 2/17 & Monday, 2/18 at 9:30 p.m.

1. DUCK, DUCK LOW by Joel Richards
2. BACKGROUND VOICES by Jenifer Badamo
3. CAN CHEESE DOODLES DO YOU HARM? by Jack Slattery
4. INTERROGATION ROOM by Dru Johnston

For tickets go to www.therianttheatre.com or call 646-623-3488.
For every ten tickets you buy you get 1 ticket for free.
Plays moving into the Wild Night on Thursday, February 21st will be posted on Monday, 2/18 at noon.

Interview with Carolyn Fischer and Pete Jensen

2008-02-12T07:57:00.000-05:00

Interview with playwright Carolyn Fischer and playwright director Pete Jensen discussing the play LUNA in the Strawberry One-Act Festival in Series D.