April 2008 Vol. 2, Issue 1

Playhouse Shows....

Shakespeare in Hollywood
Mainstage Auditorium
Author: Ken Ludwig
Friday, April 11, 2008 to Sunday, May 4, 2008

Set against a backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, Shakespeare in Hollywood is a zany comedy pairing Puck and Oberon, two of Shakespeare’s most famous characters, who are magically transported to the film set of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Instantly smitten with the glitz and glamour of showbiz, they interact with such Hollywood legends as Jack Warner and James Cagney, while battling William Hayes and his code of ethics. Shakespeare in Hollywood is the latest hit from the author of Broadway’s Crazy for You, Lend Me Tenor, and Moon Over Buffalo.

Sponsored by U.S. BANK

The Crucible
Howard Drew Theatre
Author: Arthur Miller
Friday, May 2 - Sunday, June 1, 2008
In the puritan town of Salem, Massachusetts, allegations of witchcraft begin when a group of girls is found dancing in the forest at night.  Using actual historical accounts of witch trials from the late 17th century, Arthur Miller weaves a chilling, allegorical tale of morality, fear and injustice.  You won't want to miss this classic from one of America's greatest playwrights.

Sponsored by Kutak Rock LLP
Discussion following the May 16th performance.

South Pacific
Mainstage Auditorium
Author: Oscar Hammerstein & Joshua Logan
Friday, May 23 - Sunday, June 22, 2008

The finest kind of balance between story and song, hilarity and heartbreak. Few Broadway musicals can match the songs of South Pacific for their beguiling tunes and meaningful lyrics. Whether addressing such varied subjects as love at first sight, racial prejudice, or lost possibilities, they speak a rare yet simple language. Audience-pleasing production values as you have come to expect from the Playhouse, will enhance this theatrical gem. Truly a classic – with memorable musical numbers such as “Younger Than Springtime,” “Bali Ha’i,” and “Some Enchanted Evening.”

Sponsored by FRED & MARCIA BACKER; CHARLES & MARY HEIDER; C.J. & PAT MARR; DAVID & ANNE RISMILLER; DEL & PHYLLIS TOEBBEN; MIKE AND GAIL YANNEY, RED AND JANN THOMAS AND HUSCH BLACKWELL SANDERS

Educational Workshop Sponsor: Quest and Bank of the West
Orchestra Sponsor:  The Paul and Oscar Giger Foundation
Leading Man Costume Sponsor:  The Ben, Paul and Rachel Gallagher Foundation
Media Sponsor: Cox Communications

Tickets go on sale to Season Subscribers on Tuesday, May 6th, 2008 @ 10:00 a.m.
Tickets go on sale to the General Public on Tuesday, May 13th, 2008 @ 10:00 a.m.

Upcoming Events...

Stage Right Art Auction
May 15 – June 14, 2008
This exciting annual event, sponsored by ACT II, is a silent art auction featuring works by local and regional artists. All proceeds from this event will go towards furthering the Playhouse’s goal of offering theatrical and artistic opportunities to every person in our community.

The Stage Right Art Gallery will be open for viewing and bidding here at the Playhouse from Thursday, May 15th through Saturday, June 14th. Bidding will end during a closing reception before the June 14th production of South Pacific.

If you wish to donate a piece of artwork, please contact the OCP Development Coordinator, at (402) 553-4890 ext. 145 for more information.

08-09 Season Sponsorship Opportunities Still Available!
Do you want a fun way to help the Omaha Community Playhouse? Consider sponsoring one of our 2008-09 season productions. Producing Partners help cover the costs associated with our high-quality productions. In return they receive a number of unique benefits, including a significant number of tickets for preview evening. Your company or your group of friends could have a wonderful night of entertainment at the Playhouse! If interested in learning more about available sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Development Director at 402-553-4890x127.

The Encore Society
Consider joining the Omaha Community Playhouse’s Encore Society! This is a special group of forward-thinking donors who have designated an estate plan gift to benefit the Playhouse in the future. These generous gifts to our Foundation ensure our artistic progress for the benefit of generations to come. Contact Alena Furlong at 402-553-4890 ext. 127 for more information.

You should always consult your attorney for assistance in forming a plan of charitable giving that best suits your needs.