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‘The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon’ at SCCC in Selden sheds new light on your favorite childhood fairy tales

by Julianne Mosher - October 10, 2024

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By Julianne Mosher

Not all fairy tales have a happy ending despite what “the mouse” wants you to think.

Don Zolidis’ The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon is Suffolk County Community College’s latest production at Theatre 119 located on the Ammerman Campus in Selden. The show recreates all 209 fairy tales written by the Brothers Grimm including Rapunzel, Rumpelstiltskin, Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and more. But don’t expect the fairy Godmother to make an appearance or for the characters to break into song — this isn’t a Disney show.

When the red curtain opens, we’re introduced to two narrators, River Monastero and Krystian Karwowski. Dressed in the most whimsical costumes (from designer Andrew Wittkamper), the two attempt to tell the fables and tales combined into one giant story in a fast-paced and super clever extravaganza. Both have a way of sharing the tales with a great presence on stage.

Directed by Bryan Kimmelman, the show has no intermission, which means the audience gets a full hour-and-a-half of a hysterically fun (and sometimes improved) show that is different than anything else you’ve ever seen before.

Set in various fairy tale locations, the story begins with a dirt-poor girl who makes three deals with the devil, a witch, and Rumpelstiltskin. The girl meets a prince, falls in love, finds riches and has a baby (who ends up being an angsty teenage Rapunzel dressed in her leather jacket and cell phone in hand). We learn that Rapunzel’s grandmother was actually Gretel (of Hansel and Gretel) and from there on several fables and fairy tales intertwine into one large hodgepodge of silly, chaos, magic and randomness.

The show features modern and exaggerated humor, and the actors add modern interpretations to the stories — for example a sassy fashion show where the stage turns into a catwalk to prove who really is the fairest of them all.

The talented students of SCCC play multiple parts — a feat that proves difficult considering the show is so quickly paced. Karwowski shines playing the narrator (along with the devil and as dwarf number 2), while other actors including Nicholas Maggipinto (the actor, Hansel, Johannes), John Woolard (dirt merchant prince, prince number 2), Isabella Romero (Snow White, the enchantress), Kite Harrison (witch number 2, Rumpelstiltskin), Christina Keller (Plinkie Plie, Rapunzel), Aiden Gomez (the king, dwarf number 1, heckling audience member), Mia Lombardi (the girl, Gretel, Cinderella) and Mollie Sebor (the witch, the talking raven and the queen) show off their talent by switching characters not only by act, but within the same scene.

You might want to brush up on your Grimm’s fairy tales, though, because they also delve into some of the more obscure stories like Lean Lisa and The Devil’s Grandmother. The narrators often break the fourth wall, so be prepared to get involved as you are expected to help prevent Hansel and Gretel from going into the witch’s house by yelling, “don’t go in there!” anytime they make a poor decision (as one does in any good horror movie).

You’ll laugh your gold slippers off (no, not glass slippers … again, this isn’t Disney), so be sure to check this show out.

The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building, SCCC Ammerman, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m. and on Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID are offered one free ticket. To order, please call the box office at 631-451-4163.

Theater Review: Whodunit mystery ‘Clue’ opens at the John W. Engeman Theater

by Julianne Mosher - September 27, 2024

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A hilarious comedy based on the movie and board game comes to life in Northport

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By Julianne Mosher

Not sure what to do next weekend? Well, here’s a clue.

The John W. Engeman Theater’s latest production of CLUE is a witty murder mystery filled with twists and turns all based on the 1985 film starring Tim Curry that was inspired by the classic Hasbro board game.

It begins in 1954 at the Boddy Manor, an eerie, isolated mansion where six random guests are invited under unusual circumstances to a dinner party. Welcomed by the butler, Wadsworth (Michael Keyloun) and Yvette, the maid (Arianne Davidow), each guest comes to the door unsure as to why they were invited by the mansion’s owner, Mr. Boddy (Cody Gerszewski).

Each guest is called by a pseudonym for confidentiality: Colonel Mustard (Danny Rothman), Mrs. White (Christina DeCicco), Mrs. Peacock (Thursday Farrar), Mr. Green (Patrick Harvey), Professor Plum (Ken King) and Miss Scarlet (Lauren Weinberg). All from different backgrounds (for example, Mrs. Peacock is wife to a high-profile senator, Mrs. White’s three husbands mysteriously died and Miss Scarlet is a popular Washington D.C. madam), they share one thing — a secret.

At the start of the evening, the cook of the mansion (Suzanne Mason) brings out dinner and the guests discover they all hold government influence in one form or another. When Mr. Boddy finally arrives, he explains that he is blackmailing the group. Wadsworth is told to call the police and Boddy hands the guests six weapons as “gifts” to kill the butler in order to protect their secrets; a candlestick, rope, lead pipe, wrench, revolver and dagger.

The theater’s lights go out and a there’s a loud gunshot. Mr. Boddy is dead on the floor. But who did it?

To figure out who the killer of the group is, they split up and while walking through the mansion are met with all different shenanigans. They’re met with visits from outsiders who are somehow related to people in the house — like the motorist (Gerszewski), a telegram girl (Mason) and a cop (Jeremy McClelland). They end up dead, too.

In just 90 minutes, the board game comes to life on stage with colorful characters leaving the audience wondering who, where and with what.

With a small cast, each actor embodies the characters of the game and movie with perfection. Keyloun’s portrayal of the butler (made famous by Tim Curry in the film) has the audience belly laugh with his wit and expressive skill as he moves across the stage. Other standout performances include Davidow, Rothman, DeCicco, Farrar, Harvey, King, Weinberg, Gerszewski, Mason and McClelland who are hysterical in their own ways; whether it’s Miss Scarlet’s seductive humor or Mr. Green’s silly clumsiness, there was always a smile in the crowd.

Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn and written by Sandy Rustin, the Engeman’s production is directed by Marc Tumminelli. The costume design from Dustin Cross is representative of the characters we’ve seen on the board games’ cards with a 1950s fashionable flair that colors the eerie stage set (designed by Kyle Dixon).

The stage set as the manor is an impressive one. Not only does one feel like they’re in the foyer of the house, but when they need to be in the parlor, the dining room or the den, the stage has doors that open and pull out to the room where the characters are inside. The doors are used often and usually in a campy way.

So, was it Professor Plum with the revolver in the parlor? Or maybe it was Colonel Mustard with the wrench in the hall? One thing is for sure … it should be you with a ticket in hand parked in a seat to watch this fantastic show.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents CLUE through Oct. 27. The season continues with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from Nov. 14 to Dec. 29. Tickets range from $80 to $100 with free valet parking. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Matilda the Musical’ shines bright at Theatre Three

by Julianne Mosher - September 19, 2024

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By Julianne Mosher

One of the last musical numbers during Theatre Three’s latest production of Matilda the Musical is called “Revolting Children,” but the cast of this show is far from it.

Based on the beloved book by Roald Dahl and the 1996 movie starring Mara Wilson and Danny DeVito, the musical is a fun and enchanting twist that will make all ages in the audience smile.

Written by Dennis Kelly, music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, Matilda follows the story of a spectacularly smart child who lives in an unhappy home with dimwitted parents. Matilda (played by the extraordinarily talented Sadie Mathers — who is readily on the path to stardom), finds solace in the library where she reads books upon books while also sharing tales she makes up in her head to the local librarian, Mrs. Phelps (Michelle LaBozzetta).

Her family, the Wormwoods, don’t read. In fact, they’re lazy and dumb. Matilda’s father, played by Steven Uihlein, is a crooked car salesman who refuses to acknowledge the young girl as his daughter, and her mother, played by Rachel Geiser, is an amateur ballroom dancer who only cares about her looks — not her family. Matilda has a brother, Michael, played by Jax Segal, who does not speak and stares at the TV throughout the entire show, remote in hand.

To teach her some discipline, Mr. Wormwood ships Matilda off to a private academy headed by Miss. Trunchbull (Liam Marsigliano), a former Olympian who hates children and wishes for a world without them. Luckily, Matilda and her classmates find comfort knowing their teacher, Miss Honey (Veronica Fox), loves them and tries to make their school days better despite their dreary and frightening walls.

Throughout the play, Matilda shares a tale of an escapologist (Eric J. Hughes) and his wife, the acrobat (Josie McSwane) that she makes up in her head. The characters, however, seem to match with certain people the young girl meets and encounters in her daily life.

Compared to the movie, the musical version of Matilda is set in England so the ensemble needed to not only learn the lyrics to difficult songs, but do it with a cockney accent — the child actors included. The talent of the entire cast is remarkable with its leadership from musical director Jeffrey Hoffman and choreography from Sari Feldman with dance moves and vocal ranges fit for Broadway.

And if you’re a fan of film, you’ll be surprised with a similar plot but with different twists and turns.

From the campy costumes full of color — minus the school uniforms, of course — (designed by Jason Allyn) to the set design that integrates video using TV monitors framing the stage (Randall Parsons), the attention to detail is nothing short from extraordinary.

So, you better go see this show or else you’ll be thrown in the chokey and give this group of actors the standing ovation they continuously deserve.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Matilda the Musical through Oct. 20. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12, $25 Wednesday matinees. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

All photos by Steve Kyle/Showbizshots

Theatre Three welcomes new children’s theatre director

by Press Release - August 15, 2024

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Theatre Three in Port Jefferson has announced that Colleen Rebecca Britt is the new Director of Children’s Theatre and Educational Programs.

A New York-based freelance director, actor, and teaching artist, Britt will be directing the annual productions of A Kooky Spooky Halloween, Barnaby Saves Christmas, and The Adventures of Peter Rabbit, along with other productions set for 2024-2025. Additionally, she will be taking on the Educational Touring programs, working on the existing shows and curating new works to travel to schools.

Over the course of the year, Britt will bring her vision and experience to expanding and revitalizing Theatre Three’s commitment to theatre for young audiences. She will also direct the Mainstage production of Crossing Delancey, which opens January 18, 2025.

Theatre Three to hold open auditions for ‘A Christmas Carol’ Sept. 17

by Heidi Sutton - August 15, 2024

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414995155_777562034414508_4784062924114052773_n — The 2023 cast of Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson will hold Young People’s auditions (ages 8–17) for its 40th annual production of the holiday classic Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. They will be double-casting nine roles (for a total of eighteen young people). Readings are provided. A Christmas carol (“Christmas Is Coming”) will be taught.

Rehearsals begin late September and are weeknights (beginning at 7 p.m.); Saturdays (mornings or afternoons); and Sundays (mornings, afternoons, or evenings). Young people must appear in half of the performances, including the student matinees. Performances will be held from Nov. 9 to Dec. 28, 2024.

For full details visit http://theatrethree.com/acc-auditions/. For more information, call 631-928-9100.

Theatre Three’s ‘Woodstockmania’ celebrates the rock festival that changed the world

by Tara Mae - August 14, 2024

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By Tara Mae

Peace, love, and music! Time to get your groove on and party like it’s 1969 when “Woodstockmania: Woodstock in Concert” returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main Street in Port Jefferson. The tribute concert will take the stage for the first time since 2019 on Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17 at 8 p.m.

Its 17-member band includes ten instrumentalists and eight individual vocalists singing at least two songs each, covering music from the original 1969 Woodstock lineup — an experience so organically soulful its reverberations are still felt today.

“Woodstock performances have become part of the fabric of Theatre Three. This is a group of outstanding musicians…It’s extraordinary to see these exceptionally talented artists brought together,” said Theatre Three’s Executive Artistic Director Jeffrey Sanzel.

Held on the 55th anniversary of Woodstock, “Woodstockmania” features approximately 34 numbers from 21 of the artists who played the stage at Max Yasgur’s dairy farm in Bethel, New York, including Jimi Hendrix; Sly and the Family Stone; The Who; Grateful Dead; Janis Joplin; Jefferson Airplane; Country Joe and the Fish; Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young; The Band; Santana; Sweetwater; Creedence Clearwater Revival; Joan Baez; and Joe Cocker.

“This music is from a highly creative time in our culture. There was so much varied music to become attached to; everyone could find something that resonated with themselves,” Musical Director Michael Chiusano said.

More than just a harmonious homage, “Woodstockmania” is a musical tribute to the passionate artists whose creative contributions continue to inspire today.

Having not performed “Woodstockmania” together in 5 years, the show is an opportunity to reconnect with friends as they honor the woman who first brought many of them together: Theatre Three’s longtime musical director Ellen Michelmore, who passed away in 2016.

“It’s a reunion of friends that have been through the fire together…Mostly though, it’s a tribute to Ellen; to keep the memory of her fresh in our minds and hearts. She was a special lady,” Chiusano said.

Michelmore developed “Woodstockmania” from Summer of ‘69: Return to Woodstock, which she co-created with Bill Van Horn. The original musical, using songs performed at the Woodstock festival, was a hit for Theatre Three and had an off-Broadway run.

Following that success, Michelmore organized annual Woodstock tribute concerts. After her death, the show was dubbed “Ellen Michelmore’s Woodstockmania,” according to Sanzel.

While Chiusano has added other songs and musical numbers to the show, much of its repertoire was originally chosen by Michelmore.

Eight of the songs have been in every incarnation of the show: “Going Up the Country” by Canned Heat; “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane; “Dance to the Music” by Sly & the Family Stone; “Star Spangled Banner” as done by Jimi Hendrix; “The Weight” by The Band; “Piece of My Heart” by Janis Joplin; “With a Little Help from My Friends” as done by Joe Cocker.

“That era, roughly 1965 to 1975, was the golden age of pop music. It will never be like that again. I also believe that people need to be reminded of all the great tunes there were,” Chiusano said.

Tunes are not the only entities enjoying this encore; the musicians recognize it as an opportunity to embrace an era that still enraptures performers and patrons.

“Everyone who’s ever been involved in the production always remembers it fondly when they talk to me…we’re thrilled to be a part of it,” said Theatre Three’s Artistic Associate/Director of Development Douglas Quattrock. An original company member of Summer of ‘69: Return to Woodstock, he is now in the “Woodstockmania” band as the emcee and a vocalist.

Such consistency underscores the steadfast surety of music. Personal classics and timeless songs are the soundtrack to our lives, dependable narrators of enduring emotions. In this shared language, “Woodstockmania,” is a dialect understood by artists and attendees. If “Woodstockmania” is a celebration of legacy and life, it’s main theme may be appreciating community synchronicity.

“I think the legacy of the show over the years is that it has brought so much joy and kept so much wonderful music alive for the audiences in our area,” Quattrock added.

“Woodstockmania” is part of Theatre Three’s annual Summer Concert Series that includes special one or two night only performances on its main stage. Tickets are $65 per person. For more information or to order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

The classic tale of ‘Pinocchio’ returns to Theatre Three

by TBR Staff - August 8, 2024

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Theatre Three’s Children’s Theatre closes its summer season with Pinocchio, a musical for the entire family.

Based on Carolo Collodi’s late nineteenth century Italian novel, The Adventures of Pinocchio, the story has been seen on stage and screen, both in animated and live action versions. As with all Theatre Three children’s theatre, the company creates its own musical based on the original material. Pinocchio has a book by Jeffrey Sanzel, with new songs by Jeffrey Hoffman and Douglas J. Quattrock.

Anabelle (Emilia Guzzetta), underling apprentice fairy—third class, is assigned by Ondine, Queen of the Fairies (Ginger Dalton), to help an angry and withdrawn woodcarver, Geppetto (Steven Uihlein).

After failing to change the recluse through song, the nervous fairy teams with the energetic and outgoing Cassandra, the Enchanted Cricket (Michelle LaBozzetta). Together, they enchant a stick of wood. Hearing the wood speak, Geppetto fashions it into a wooden companion, Pinocchio (Kiernan Urso). When they realize that the puppet is alive but lacks a sense of right and wrong, they cast a spell on his nose to grow when he does not tell the truth.

Meanwhile, two wily crooks—Carpacious Cat (Gina Lardi) and Ferdinand Fox (Ryan Van Nostrand)—set up their scam “Festival El Grande” to fleece the villagers. When they discover the magic wooden boy, the pair embark on yet another scheme.

Along with the professional acting company, Pinocchio features two dozen students from Theatre Three’s Summer Dramatic Academy.

The score features the original songs “Lovely Thoughts,” “Bad Harmony,” “You Can Count on Me,” “Taran-Tella Da Truth,” “Put Tomorrow in Your Hands,” “Keep Your Chin Up and Smile,” and the calypso “Festival El Grande.”

The production is directed by Sanzel while Quattrock and Hoffman, who musically directed, form the two-keyboard combo. Choreography is by Kiernan Urso, costume design is by Jason Allyn and Melissa Troxler is the production stage manager.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Pinocchio through Aug. 10. Running time is one hour with a 15 minute intermission. Photos with the cast are available in the lobby after the show. Final performances are Friday, August 9, at 11 a.m., and Saturday, August 10, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Children’s theater continues with Theatre Three’s annual productions of A Kooky Spooky Halloween from Oct. 5 to 19, and and Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28.

All seats are $12. Call the box office at 631-928-9100 or visit theatrethree.com for tickets and information.

Elle-evate your summer with ‘Legally Blonde’ at the Engeman

by Julianne Mosher - July 18, 2024

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By Julianne Mosher

Get your pink blazer on and swipe on some lip gloss for the John W. Engeman theater in Northport’s latest production of Legally Blonde The Musical.

Based on the 2001 hit movie starring Reese Witherspoon, the 2007 Broadway musical, written by Heather Hach, hints to a lot of the famous movie moments and quotes, but certainly has its own identity and it’s just as good as the famous 00’s comedy.

But it couldn’t have gained the standing ovation it received on the theater’s opening night if it weren’t for the talented cast and crew who took on quite a challenge with Jay Gamboa’s choreography and direction from Trey Compton.

The show starts out with a simple stage design, headed by Kyle Dixon, of a Delta Nu doorframe at Elle Woods’ (Emma Flynn Bespolka) UCLA sorority house. There, we meet her best friends and sorority sisters, Margot (Lara Hayhurst), Serena (Juliana Lamia) and Pilar (Bridgette Carey) who are writing out a congratulations card for Elle who thinks she’s getting engaged to her boyfriend, Warner Huntington III (Nathan Haltiwanger).

The girls, dressed in their best 2000s-styled clothes (low rise jeans, a lot of color and bedazzles) learn from Elle’s dog, Bruiser, (Little Ricky and Cha Cha), that the soon-to-be bride is at the mall finding the most perfect dress. Always on cue with his scripted barks, jumps and licks, Bruiser with his minimal appearances had the audience in awe at what a good boy he is under the stage lights.

After finding the perfect outfit, hair done and makeup on, Elle meets Warner at a restaurant where he tells her he wants to get serious with her … Down on one knee he takes her hand and much to her surprise and dismay breaks up with her. Afterall, he’s going to law school to kickstart his political career and he needs “a Jackie, not a Marilyn.”

Two weeks of mourning of her idea of marriage falling apart, Elle decides to follow Warner to Harvard Law School. Although she has a degree in fashion merchandising from UCLA, with the financial help of her wealthy parents (Emily Bacino Althaus and Matt DeNoto), and a fantastic cheerleading-inspired live dance performance at Harvard clad in glitter and pink, she (shockingly) gets in and heads to the east coast. What, like it’s hard?

At Harvard, she introduces herself to her classmates, Emmett (Quinn Corcoran), Aaron (Christian Melhuish), Sundeep (Yash Ramanujam) and Enid (Haley Izurieta), as a Gemini who once told Beyonce that orange is definitely not the new pink. Everyone except for Emmett doesn’t take her seriously and backs away, heading to the tough Professor Callahan’s class (James D Sasser) where Elle learns Warner is dating a true “Jackie,” Vivienne Kensington (Nicole Fragala).

Throughout the rest of Act I, we see Elle struggle with acceptance as she tries to bring her sunny California personality to the gloomy New England university, while also trying to woo her ex back into her life (and dealing with his judgmental and jealous new girlfriend). The musical brings the iconic scene from the screen when Vivienne and her friends invite Elle to a costume party – but it’s not – and she learns that the hard way as she shows up as a Playboy Bunny.

Luckily for Elle, we meet her new best friend who becomes her support system, Paulette (Chanel Edwards-Frédérick), a hair dresser with a sad backstory. Paulette gushes over the new UPS driver, Kyle (Jeffrey Keller), who doesn’t have a lot of lines, but you’ll laugh until your stomach hurts at his seductive walk through the theater and suggestive jokes that have all the girls (and guys) in the beauty salon swoon. Eventually Paulette wins him over by the 99.99 percent effective “bend and snap.”

Back in Elle’s life, she gets added to Professor Callahan’s legal team to represent a former Delta Nu workout superstar, Brooke Wyndham (Julianne Roberts), who is accused of killing her husband. We’re introduced to her in Act II at the woman’s prison where she is demonstrating what is probably the most intense choreography the audience has ever witnessed – a whole song and dance involving constant jump roping. Roberts, with her impeccable lungs, doesn’t miss a beat and double jump with no flaws in her vocal range receiving a long-winded applause when the number is over. You’ll be tired watching her.

From now on, we’re in court learning about Brooke’s story and who might have actually killed her husband. Using her knowledge of all thing’s beauty, Elle wins the case because everyone knows that you don’t take a shower after a perm…

This show is the most fun you’ll have and with a large cast of 25 talented actors (and two talented pups), you’ll always see something new. The lead role of Elle couldn’t have been better picked as Bespolka truly embodies the character in every sense. In fact, even the ensemble who appeared in only one or two numbers continuously also stole the show.

So, don’t object to this great opportunity and see for yourself what a great play this is.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Legally Blonde The Musical through August 25. The Main Stage season continues with the murder mystery Clue from Sept. 12 to Oct. 27. Tickets range from $80 to $95. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

The Silly Sorcery Showcase heads to Theatre Three July 21

by Press Release - July 18, 2024

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Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for The Silly Sorcery Showcase, a magical event for the whole family, on July 21 at 2 p.m. Hosted by Mike Maione aka The Silly Magician, the fun-filled afternoon will feature performances by juggler Keith Leaf and celebrated magician Magic Al.

Meet the magicians:

Magic Al

Magic Al Garber is a celebrated magician whose vibrant performances have enchanted audiences for years. With a career rooted in the art of illusion and sleight of hand, comedy, and improv, Magic Al has established himself as a beloved figure in the world of magic. His shows are a delightful blend of mystifying tricks, comedic elements, and engaging storytelling, making them a hit for audiences of all ages. From private parties and school events to corporate gatherings and public festivals, Magic Al’s versatile performances have made him a sought-after entertainer who can adapt to any audience and occasion.

One of the pinnacles of Magic Al’s illustrious career is his successful Off-Broadway show, “It’s a Magic-Al World.” This show brought his mesmerizing tricks and charismatic stage presence to one of the most prestigious platforms in the entertainment industry. “Magic Al Live!” was met with rave reviews, drawing large crowds and solidifying his status as a top-tier magician. His ability to captivate audiences in such a competitive environment speaks volumes about his talent and showmanship. New York magazine recognized this excellence by naming him “Best Kids Magician in New York”, a testament to his skill and the joy he brings to his audiences.

A hallmark of Magic Al’s performances is his ability to create a sense of wonder and excitement, leaving spectators in awe with his impressive array of tricks and illusions. Whether making objects disappear, pulling rabbits out of hats, or reading minds, Magic Al’s acts are executed with precision and flair. Through his performances and educational efforts, Magic Al entertains and inspires, fostering a new generation of magicians who share his enthusiasm and dedication to the art of illusion.

Magic Al’s mom is still disappointed that he didn’t become a doctor.

Keith Leaf

Keith Leaf is an award-winning juggler who has captivated audiences worldwide with his dynamic shows and exceptional skill. Over his extensive career, Keith has become a prominent figure in the juggling community, known for his ability to blend technical expertise with engaging showmanship. His performances are a high-energy mix of intricate juggling routines, comedic elements, and audience interaction, making each show a unique and memorable experience. From local festivals to international events, Keith’s versatile acts have earned him a reputation as a top-tier entertainer who can connect with audiences of all ages.

Keith Leaf’s performances are characterized by his use of diverse props, such as balls, clubs, rings, and even flaming torches, which showcase his extensive juggling abilities. His passion for juggling extends beyond entertaining; he is also a dedicated teacher, often conducting workshops to inspire and mentor aspiring jugglers, thereby reinforcing his commitment to the art form and its future. Keith’s client list is extensive, and he has appeared at numerous prestigious venues like New Year’s Eve in Times Square, the Metropolitan Opera House, and America’s Got Talent.

Mike Maione

Mike Maione, affectionately known as the Silly Magician, will host the show. Mike is a beloved entertainer known for his unique blend of comedy and magic. With a knack for making audiences laugh while simultaneously leaving them spellbound, Mike has carved out a niche for himself in the world of family entertainment. His performances are characterized by playful humor, clever illusions, and a lively interaction with his audience. Whether performing strolling magic in small, intimate settings or on stage, Mike’s engaging style and infectious energy ensure that his shows are memorable experiences for children and adults alike.

Mike also teaches magic, offering workshops and classes to aspiring magicians. Mike is a member of the prestigious 4F. He has performed at Smoke and Mirrors Magic Theatre in Pennsylvania, The Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, The Dickens Parlour Theatre in Delaware, and on stage at the Magic Circle in London. Mike is a lecturer and magic reviewer with a large following. He is also a magic creator who designs and creates magic for other magicians.

Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

See preview here.

To purchase tickets, click here.

Theatre Three’s ‘Raggedy Ann & Andy’ will become your new buddies, pals and friends

by Julianne Mosher - July 11, 2024

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By Julianne Mosher

A heart-filled tale of friendship and adventure headed back to Theatre Three this week with their latest children’s theater production of Raggedy Ann & Andy — also known as “Friends and Friends and Friends.”

Based off of characters created by Johnny Gruelle, this special and unique tale, written by Jeffrey Sanzel and Kevin Story, brings these two lovable rag dolls to life in a comical musical that the family is sure to enjoy.

Directed by Sanzel with musical direction by Doug Quattrock, the show starts off at the Tiwilliger sisters’ toy shop where they specialize in creating toys that come to life to bring joy to children in need. They hear of a little girl named Marcella who is ill and decide to make a brother for one of their favorite toys, Raggedy Ann (played by Isabella Scarpa), named Andy (Will Logan).

However, the toymakers, Martha (Gina Lardi) and Abby (Louisa Bikowski) have an evil brother, Mortimer (Steven Uihlein) who wants to use his family’s magic selfishly and to not use it to help local boys and girls. Casting a spell and with the help of his (reluctant) sidekick Rose Carpet (Emilia Guzzetta), the evil Mortimer steals Andy’s heart and the toys team up to get it back.

With the help of the tin soldier (Jason Furnari), the clown (Ryan Van Nostrand), the lion (Liam Marsigliano) and the queen doll (Julia Albino), the group heads to find Mortimor and retrieve Andy’s heart. Through a quest full of twists and turns, the audience waits to see if Andy will go back to his lovable self so he and Ann could help Marcella feel better.

Choreographed by Josie McSwane, the show is full of catchy tunes with themes of friendship, loyalty and love as the actors dance along. This musical will also show children the importance of friendship and how it’s nice to help when a friend is in need.

And the best part is, while the show is geared for younger audiences, adults can reminisce about their own childhood toys thanks to Jason Allyn’s costume design — Raggedy Ann and Andy’s outfits are to a T, looking as if they just came off the shelves at the store. Plus, the cast is available in the lobby after the show for photos. It’s a great afternoon out that is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Raggedy Ann & Andy on Fridays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. through July 27. Children’s theater continues with Pinocchio from Aug. 2 to Aug. 10 and A Kooky Spooky Halloween from Oct. 5 to Oct. 19. All seats are $12.

Theatre Three will also present a special program, The Silly Sorcery Showcase on July 21 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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‘The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon’ at SCCC in Selden sheds new light on your favorite childhood fairy tales

Theater Review: Whodunit mystery ‘Clue’ opens at the John W. Engeman Theater

‘Matilda the Musical’ shines bright at Theatre Three

Theatre Three welcomes new children’s theatre director

Theatre Three to hold open auditions for ‘A Christmas Carol’ Sept. 17

Theatre Three’s ‘Woodstockmania’ celebrates the rock festival that changed the world

The classic tale of ‘Pinocchio’ returns to Theatre Three

Elle-evate your summer with ‘Legally Blonde’ at the Engeman

The Silly Sorcery Showcase heads to Theatre Three July 21

Meet the magicians:

Theatre Three’s ‘Raggedy Ann & Andy’ will become your new buddies, pals and friends

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Stamp Out Hunger food drive returns May 10

Former Port Jeff Mayor Harold Sheprow passes away

SBU students sail into mythology at 36th annual Roth Pond Regatta