THEATER AND SUCH

 Welcome to Cindy Paul, who is bravely stepping forward with her column, "Front Row, Center," to be compassionate in telling it like it is. A difficult task indeed. As mentioned in the July column, someone who has been there and done that knows all the hard, gratis work and hours of rehearsal involved in what a director truly believes will be pleasing to an audience. It is unfortunate her first review required her to critique a play she appeared in.
     While in Toronto, Ontario for the American Bridge League Nationals, I had an opportunity to see what was going on in the world of live theater in the host city and nearby New York. Off-Broadway had a presentation of "The Vagina Monologues," starring Lisa Kron, Michelle Rodriguez, and Jessica Walter. In addition to: "The Producers," "Proof," and "The Full Monty," Broadway sported several tried and true productions, such as "Annie Get Your Gun," "Music Man," "Phantom of the Opera and a musical called, "Urinetown," which was billed as: "Grade A." In Toronto, well known for artistic productions, you could attend "The Penis Chronicles," billed as a comedy, "The Penis Origami," quoted as a "must see rather than a must fold," the long running, "Mama Mia," or Shakespeare's "As You Like It." Tickets were readily available for all performances except "Mama Mia" "The Full Monty," "Proof," and "The Producers," which is sold out until April.
     Don't forget to renew your membership and purchase season tickets at Little Theater this month. Box office open Sept. 6-7. Out of t own? Make arrangements with Fran Roa.
     Jeritza McCarter's cast is complete and rehearsals are full steam ahead for "Shadow Box," which opens next month in a squeaky clean theater. It will be interesting to see how the set is handled.
     There is always room for volunteers, so don't be shy, call Barbara Hartman.
Party, party for members only at the theater on the patio Sept 8. -late afternoon. . .