VOS ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON ... Critics Circle Award for Best Score, 9 TO 5: ... with a voice major from UVic and has been a vocal

MUSICAL UPDATE MARCH 2017

VOS ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASONVOS is proud to announce our 2017-2018 Season with two shows that are sure to have audiences humming familiar tunes as they leave the theatre.

To celebrate Canada’s 150 Anniversary, VOS will open the Season in November 2017 with a production of Canada’s longest-running musical, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES: THE MUSICAL. With book by Donald Harron, music by Norman Campbell, and lovingly adapted from the 1908 novel by Canadian author L.M. Montgomery, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES: THE MUSICAL is a timeless piece of Canadiana. The story is filled with unforgettable characters and brings the comical adventures of spunky red-headed orphan Anne Shirley to life as she wins over her new family and the rest of Prince Edward Island with her spirit and imagination in this heartwarming story about love, family, and home.

In May 2018, VOS will present Dolly Parton’s award winning 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL. Winner of the LA Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Score, 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL also received 4 Tony Awards nominations and 13 New York Drama Desk Award nominations.With music and lyrics by Dolly Parton

and book by Patricia Resnick, 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie of the same name starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin. This high-energy show, a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era, is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

Submissions for Production Team are now being accepted. Deadline is Friday, March 31 at midnight. Please click here to visit our website at vos.bc.ca for Submission info.

http://www.vos.bc.ca/submissions.php


OPENING FRIDAY, MAY 5McPHERSON PLAYHOUSE

MEET THE CAST MEMBERS ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES

http://www.vos.bc.ca/tickets.php


Fran is a veteran performer who has been involved in numerous productions around Victoria. Her VOS performing credits include Mama Rose in GYPSY; the Wicked Witch in THE WIZARD OF OZ; Martha Watson in WHITE CHRISTMAS; and the Baroness Elsa Schräder in THE SOUND OF MUSIC. Other credits include Ursula in THE LITTLE MERMAID; Morticia in ADDAMS FAMILY; and she was recently seen in the challenging role of a mother with bipolar disorder in Langham Court’s NEXT TO NORMAL. Fran works tirelessly behind-the-scenes as a set painter and as President of VOS. You can also catch her performing throughout Victoria with the swing band DOCK SIDE DRIVE

Jeff’s late mother instilled in him his love of theatre and he is no stranger to the VOS stage. Of the 12 other VOS shows he has performed in, his favourite roles include Chris in MISS SAIGON; the Lion in THE WIZRD OF OZ; Riff in WEST SIDE STORY; Sky in GUYS AND DOLLS; and he fulfilled a 25-year-old dream when he was cast as Jean Valjean in LES MISÉRABLES. Jeff has also performed with Chemainus Theatre Festival, Norwegian Cruise Lines, RCM, and POV. For applications to his fan club, please submit a bottle of single malt scotch to any stage hand, if it actually gets to Jeff … you’re in!


You may recall Robert as King’s Arthur’s sidekick, Patsy, in last year’s critically acclaimed VOS production of SPAMALOT. A graduate of UVICS’s Acting Specialization, and the Banff Center’s Music Theatre program, Robert toured North America with the Story Theatre Company for 16 years before getting a real job – one with a pension. As CBC’s Radio One theatre critic for six years, Robert founded the Critic’s Choice Awards.

Although this is Ashley’s 9th time on stage in a VOS production, she can also be found behind-the-scenes assisting with hair, makeup, set painting, and props. And if all that isn’t enough, she current sits on the VOS Board. Some of her favourite past shows include LES MISÉRABLES, MISS SAIGON, and JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT. No stranger to film and television, Ashley worked closely with David Tennant during the filming of GRACEPOINT in Victoria – by closely we mean she stood next to him once. When not treading the boards locally, you might find her walking down Broadway in New York or in London’s West End to catch the latest hit show.


Darren is thrilled to be back as Artie Green in his 9th production with VOS. Some favorites include SPAMALOT, LES MISÉRABLES, and THE WILL ROGERS FOLLIES. If he sounds familiar it’s because you’ve probably heard him many times before as the voice of BC Ferries terminals and safety announcements aboard the vessels! Darren can’t wait for SUNSET BLVD’s Victoria premiere this May ... don’t miss it !!

Craig is another VOS veteran and is remembered for his 2013 tour de force performance as The Engineer in MISS SAIGON. His other VOS credits include CRAZY FOR YOU (Bobby), GUYS AND DOLLS (Nicely), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Lumiere), SWEENEY TODD (Anthony), BRIGADOON (Tommy), WEST SIDE STORY (Diesel), OKLAHOMA (Will Parker), as well as GREASE, WILL ROGERS FOLLIES, THE WIZARD OF OZ and BROADWAY DECADES IN REVIEW. He has also performed the Langham Court stage in COMPANY, BLOOD BROTHERS, JITTERS, MOTHER COURAGE, and most recently in the dual roles of Dr. Fine/Dr. Madden in NEXT TO NORMAL.


Jim has been an active member of VOS since 1996.Usually seen onstage performing large comedic characters, Jim has performed in such VOS productions as OKLAHOMA (Ali Hakem), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Cogsworth), LA CAGE AUX FOLLES (Jacob), BRIGADOON (Jeff), and THE MUSIC MAN (Mayor Shinn). He has also tread the boards with Langham Court, Four Seasons Musical Theatre, and others locally and throughout BC. Not only is Jim a sought after performer, but he is also an accomplished director and brought to life the highly successful runs of WEST SIDE STORY and THE SOUND Of MUSIC for VOS, and SHREK: THE MUSICAL for FSMT.

Merissa is a graduate of UVic’s Music program. Her VOS credits include BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, EVITA, THE SOUND OF MUSIC, and most recently LES MISÉRABLES. She is a regular performer with the Victoria Gilbert & Sullivan Society having appeared in THE MIKADO, THE SORCERER, PIRATES OF PENZANCE (Ruth), HMS PINAFORE, IOLANTHE (The Fairy Queen), RUDDIGORE, and GONDOLIERS (Duchess of Plaza-Toro). Merissa has also performed with Pacific Opera Victoria in the chorus of the MARRIAGE OF FIGARO, as a member of Bob LeBlanc`s Variety Fare, and with Starlight Pops.


Christie is new to VOS and we are thrilled to have her in our production. But this is not her first time on stage, she has an extensive background in ballet as a teacher and performer and was recently seen as Dorothy in STEPPING OUT at Langham Court. Christie holds a Diploma in Piano Performance from Camosun College and is a freelance make-up artist with a Diploma in Make-up Artistry from the prestigious Blanche Mcdonald Center in Vancouver.

This is Rowan’s first production with VOS, but he is no stranger to the stage. He is a recent graduate of Spectrum Community School where he had been immersed in the fine arts programs including musical theatre and dance and received numerous Fine Arts Awards and a Fine Arts Diploma in Dance and Musical Theatre. He is an accomplished hip hop, lyrical, and contemporary dancer. Productions at Spectrum included WILL ROGERS FOLLIES (Will Rogers) and MARY POPPINS (Bert). You also may have seen Rowan recently in the challenging role of Henry in NEXT TO NORMAL at Langham Court.


We’re not sure if Andrew caught the acting bug while playing a Johnny Cash Impersonator in the SNOW DAZE FESTIVAL at the Treasure Cove Casino in Prince George, but he showed up on the VOS doorstep just in time to be cast as The French Taunter in last spring’s highly successful SPAMALOT. And by the time he realized he was in line for a dance audition for the fall production of A CHORUS LINE, it was too late and he was cast as Don. Andrew dreams that one day he will be cast as someone with a last name. He is also an accomplished guitar, mandolin and harmonica player.

Katelyn is a seasoned VOS performer and has appeared in many productions including A CHORUS LINE, SPAMALOT, A CHRISTMAS STORY, THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, MISS SAIGON, and BRIGADOON. You may also have seen her in THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD and CABARET at Langham Court, or in the 4Seasons productions of HONK: THE MUSICAL, NARNIA: THE MUSICAL, and WILLY WONKA. Katelyn has danced with the Washington Academy of Performing Arts, Boston Ballet Summer Program, Ballet Bellevue, the Atlanta Ballet Pre-Professional Division, and holds a Degree in Ballet from the Indiana University School of Music.


We are thrilled to have Kathy back with VOS after a hiatus since her turn as Glinda in THE WIZARD OF OZ. But that doesn’t mean she hasn’t been busy, she was lead vocalist with the Quannah Parker Jazz Fusion band based in Oslo, Norway, and sang with The Doug Farr Quartet at the Victoria International Jazz Festival in 2011. She holds a Bachelor of Music with a voice major from UVic and has been a vocal coach in the Musical Theatre Program at Dansko Studios, a director of the Victoria Children’s Choir Junior Ensemble, and a music/drama teacher at Colquitz and Christ Church Cathedral School. Kathy also enjoyed performing in Gotta Getta Gimmick’s inaugural cabaret.

Shortly after Bret relocated from Ottawa to Victoria four years ago, he was seen in the VOS productions of LES MISÉRABLES and MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS. While in Ottawa he appeared in ORPHEUS IN OTTAWA, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, and WHITE CHRISTMAS. You can catch him emceeing Wet Coast Burlesque presents ‘YA FILTHY ANIMAL’ on April 13 at the Victoria Event Center, and Bret is also currently in rehearsal for the 4Seasons production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Gaston) with his son, Alex (Chip), opening June 16 in the WestShore.


Doug has been involved with VOS ever since arriving in Victoria in 2011 and has been seen in productions of BRIGADOON (Archie Beaton), THE SOUND OF MUSIC (Uncle Max), ANNIE (Daddy Warbucks), MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (Mr. Smith), and in the ensembles of LES MISERABLES and A CHRISTMAS STORY. He has performed with 4Seasons Musical Theatre in OLIVER (Dr. Grimwig), ANNE OF GREEN GABLES (Matthew Cuthbert), and A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Scrooge); and recently with Langham Court in THE CRUCIBLE (Giles Corey). Whenever he gets a chance, he also enjoys performing with Gotta Getta Gimmick. Doug currently sits on the VOS Board as Vice President.

... Meet the Rest of Our

Sunset Boulevard Cast Members

In Our May Edition ofthe Musical Update

Newsletter ...


Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it!

- William Arthur Ward

As we approach volunteer appreciation week in April, I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and express my gratitude to the many volunteers that give of their valuable time and expertise to make real our dreams and visions and bring them to life on the stage.

VOS is extremely fortunate to have not only a talented group of volunteers but also a dedicated group who return show after show. Without you, we could not do all that we do. My sincerest thanks to each and everyone of you for your time. Know that it is very valued and VOS is so grateful.

Warm regards,

Fran BitontiPresident

https://volunteer.ca/nvw2017


Set BuildingAre you looking for something fun, challenging, and creative to do with a group of great people?

Why not come out and join the set building crew for Sunset Boulevard, our May 2017 show.

The crew meets Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7 pm - 10 pm and Saturdays from 9 am - noon. Come as often as you can. Learn a few tricks of the trade, or sharpen your current set of skills!

If you or someone you know is interested, please contact the office at 250-381-1021.

Your help would be greatly appreciated!

CANADA’S LAW ON SPAM

Canada’s new anti-spam law is in force as of July 1, 2014. One of its main purposes is to prohibit the sending of commercial electronic messages without the recipient’s consent (permission), including messages to email addresses and social networking accounts, and text messages sent to a cell phone.

To comply VOS sent out a message to our membership re the new legislation. We hope you received it. If at any time you wish to discontinue receiving email messages from VOS, please email us at [email protected] with the subject line: REMOVE.

We hate to lose you as a valued member of our organization but we totally understand.

Thank you, Francesca Bitonti, President, Victoria Operatic Society

mailto:[email protected]

MUSICAL UPDATE DECEMBER 2015

“The Neuroscience of Singing”

with Erin Guinup, Guest Speaker from Seattle, Washington

Presented by the Victoria Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing

Saturday May 6th 2017, from 1pm to 5pmVictoria Operatic Society Hall

“How Music Affects Us: The Neuroscience of Singing” - Lecture from 1pm to 2:15pm

“Connecting Heart & Voice: Emphasis on Emotional Portrayals” - Interactive Masterclass from 3pm to 5pm

Music moves us all deeply and science can now explain why. This workshop will review research about how singing affects the body and brain and the implica-tions for singers and music teachers. We will discuss how emotions and health are intertwined, why singing may help Alzheimer’s and heart and digestive con-ditions, and how to manage and address the whole singer and better understand performance anxiety.

We will explore how neurochemistry affects motivation and how we can use this knowledge as teachers and performers.

The masterclass, welcoming audience participation, will continue this discussion with an emphasis on connecting heart, brain and voice and discovering technical breakthroughs that can occur as we more completely engage with the music.

[email protected]



THE VICTORIA GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY

Is Auditioning For

PIRATES OF PENZANCETHE VICTORIA GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY

Is Auditioning For

PIRATES OF PENZANCE

The Society is thrilled with this year’s artistic team. Music direction is under the superlative baton of George Corwin. Well known Victoria director Roger Carr is making his Gilbert and Sullivan directorial debut. Joining us for the first time as choreographer is Ashley Evans from Ballet Étoile.

Date: Saturday, April 8th, 1 to 4 p.m. and Sunday, April 9th, 1 to 4 p.m. Place: James Bay New Horizons, Menzies St. Music Rehearsals are Sunday, Monday and Wednesdays from June 18th to June 28th. A musical tune-up in the last week of August. Stage Rehearsals are Sunday, Monday and Wednesdays from September 6th on. Performances are The first weekend in November, 2017 at the Dave Dunnett Theatre in Victoria and The second weekend in November, 2017 at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. Please contact Linda Troke at [email protected] or 250-592-9268 to book an audition time.

http://gilbertandsullivanvictoria.ca/Scripts/VGAS.dll/home

http://gilbertandsullivanvictoria.ca/Scripts/VGAS.dll/home


AUDITIONS 2017

The Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA) conducts a nation-wide tour to find Canada’s top emerging artists for Fall admissions. This year we auditioned in 10 cities and saw some amazing talent. Video auditions are still being accepted until May 1

The college not only trains emerging its students to be top performers but mentors them to create their own new Canadian works and establish their own artistic companies.

Video Audition Requirements• Video auditions should not exceed 8 minutes in length and must contain the following:• An introduction of yourself and a brief outline of your training and career goals.• A comment on why you think CCPA is the right educational institution for you.• Two short (max 2-minutes each) contrasting monologues.• Two songs, one up-tempo and one ballad song. (First verse and chorus only.)• Dance variations showing the different styles of dance you are capable of.• Completed application form.• Audition fee as per stipulated on audition form. (cash cheque or money order accepted – do not

send cash)• Official Transcript of grades (please provide a copy of your most recent education completed). If

the prospective student has not yet completed high school then an Interim Report or Unofficial Transcript signed by the high school Registrar will be accepted at the audition to be followed by an Official Transcript upon graduation and acceptance into the program.

• Up to date theatre resumé.• Headshot (or other 8×10 current photo).• Demonstrate that they meet the Language Proficiency Assessment Policy requirement.

Video auditions must be received by the Canadian College of Performing Arts no later than May 1st. It is advantageous to submit your video before the deadline.

For more information go to www.ccpacanada.com

http://www.ccpacanada.com/


Steven Benson – Vocal Coach, Pianist and Organist 104 – 936 Fairfield Road Victoria, B.C. V8V 3A4

Tel. 250-480-7657 [email protected]

March, 2017 Dear VOS Members, Many of you will remember that I worked as accompanist and pit orchestra pianist for many VOS shows, some years ago. I am writing to let you know that I have resumed working as an accompanist and vocal coach, and would very much enjoy assisting you to polish your songs for “Sunset Boulevard” as well as prepare for the “Anne of Green Gables” auditions and other performances in the future. I have forty years of experience as a vocal coach and music director in the Musical Theatre and Operetta genres. The services I can provide are:

- Polishing your performance of songs for audition or concert

- Accompaniment of your performances on piano, keyboard or pipe organ

- Vocal coaching to improve your breathing technique, vocal range and emotional expression

- Instruction in the basics of good posture and alignment to maximum the power and beauty of your singing as well as your onstage “presence”

- Creation of practice recordings in formats such as audio CD or mp3 My fee is $45.00 per hour or $25.00 per half hour. I look forward to working with you! Please feel free to email or call me if you need further information. Best regards, Steven Benson


Documents

VOS ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON ... Critics Circle Award for Best Score, 9 TO 5: ... with a voice major from UVic and has been a vocal