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Wednesday, May 1, 2013

ACT OUT OPENING: Northlight Theatre’s World Premier of Stella & Lou



Rhea Perlman, Francis Guinan and Ed Flynn to appear in the World Premiere of 
Northlight Theatre’s Stella & Lou

Northlight Theatre, under the direction of Artistic Director BJ Jones and Executive Director Timothy J. Evans are preparing for the world premiere of Stella & Lou, including Emmy Award winner Rhea Perlman, Francis Guinan and Ed Flynn.  Bruce Graham, the Jeff Award-winning playwright of The Outgoing Tide, returns to Northlight with his latest play, to be directed by BJ Jones.  Stella & Lou will run at Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd in Skokie, from May 3-June 9, 2013.

On a quiet night at Lou's bar, two kindred spirits seek solace as they navigate changing times and relationships past. From the author of The Outgoing Tide comes an intimate exploration of friendship, forgiveness, and the longing for companionship that grows with the passage of time.


BJ Jones comments, “When Rhea Perlman saw The Outgoing Tide last summer in Galway, she told me how much she admired Bruce's work. I immediately thought she would be perfect for the role of Stella, and upon reading it, she agreed. Now we are honored to pair her up with Fran Guinan as Lou in this poignant piece about companionship and second chances.”

About The Artists

 
Rhea Perlman (Stella) is a four-time Emmy winner for her role as Carla on the NBC TV show Cheers. Stage credits include Love, Loss and What I Wore, in which she appeared with her daughter Lucy DeVito, on Broadway and at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles; the Broadway production of The Tale of the Allergist's Wife; the Off-Broadway play The Exonerated; the Los Angeles production of Last Night at Ballyhoo and the London West End revival of Boeing-Boeing.  Film credits include The Sessions, Sunset Park, Canadian Bacon and Carpool. Perlman played Mrs. Wormwood to her husband, Danny DeVito’s Mr. Wormwood in the film Matilda, which was directed by DeVito.  The pair also worked together on the acclaimed TV series Taxi in which Perlman played Louie DePalma’s love interest, Zena.   Television credits include Hung, Law & Order: SVU, Kate Brasher, Hot in Cleveland, and Pearl, in which she both starred and served as executive producer, and television movies including The Christmas Choir, Houdini, Secret Cutting and How to Marry a Billionaire. This fall Perlman reunites with Kirstie Ally in TV Land's new comedy, Kirstie's New Show in which she plays Ally's assistant and best friend, Thelma.  Perlman lives with her family in Los Angeles.

Francis Guinan (Lou) has been a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 1979.  With Steppenwolf he has appeared in over 30 productions including The Birthday Party, Time Stands Still, The Book Thief, American Buffalo, August: Osage County, Balm in Gilead and Say Goodnight, Gracie.  He has previously appeared at Northlight in Season’s Greetings and Inherit the Wind.  He has also appeared at Victory Gardens (A Guide for the Perplexed), Goodman (Seagull) and American Blues Theatre (Rantoul and Die).  Television appearances include Boss in the role of Gov. Cullen, filmed here in Chicago; Eerie, Indiana, ER, Frasier and several Star Trek franchise episodes.  Film roles include appearances in The Last Airbender, Typing, Low Tide, and Constantine. 

Ed Flynn (Donny) has appeared at Chicago Dramatists in I am Going to Change the World; The Gift Theatre in Suicide, Incorporated and at Writers’ in A Streetcar Named Desire.  Ed is a member of the Gift Theatre Company, where he is Co-Artistic Director of giftFILM and is a founding member of NATURAL GAS, the Gift's house improv team.  Ed is a graduate of The School at Steppenwolf, The Second City, iO and Upright Citizens Brigade.  He currently lives in Los Angeles.

Bruce Graham (Playwright) has written The Outgoing Tide, which premiered at Northlight in a production that transferred to The Galway Arts Festival; Burkie; Early One Evening at the Rainbow Bar & Grille; Moon Over the Brewery; Belmont Avenue Social Club; Desperate Affection; Coyote on a Fence, Winner of The Rosenthal Prize, Two Drama Desk Nominations – the West End production starred Ben Cross; According to Goldman; The Philly Fan.  He has won consecutive Barrymore Awards for Best New Play for Something Intangible and Any Given Monday.  Mister Hart and Mister Brown opens at People’s Light and Theatre in 2012.  Film: Dunston Checks In, Anastasia, Steal This Movie.  TV: Roseanne, Ring of Endless Light (Humanitas Award Winner – Best Children’s Screenplay), The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.  Trading Christmas will play on the Hallmark Channel during the upcoming holiday season.  Graham is a past winner of the Princess Grace Foundation Statuette.  Along with Michele Volansky, he is the author of the book The Collaborative Playwright.  Graham teaches film and theatre courses at Drexel University.  He resides in South Philadelphia.

BJ Jones (Artistic Director/Director) is in his 14th season as Artistic Director of Northlight Theatre, where he most recently directed The Odd Couple and has piloted the world premieres of The Outgoing Tide with John Mahoney and Rondi Reed, Craig Wright's Lady, Larry Gelbart and Craig Wright's Better Late, Rounding Third with George Wendt, and Sky Girls. As a producer he guided the world premieres of Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years, The Gamester, and Studs Terkel's 'The Good War'. BJ has directed at Steppenwolf, Cherry Lane Theatre NY, Atlanta's Alliance Theatre, The Utah Shakespeare Festival, The Asolo Theatre, Intiman Theatre, TimeLine and Next Theatre in Evanston. Directorial work includes Northlight's Grey Gardens, The Lady with All the Answers, The Retreat From Moscow, A Skull in Connemara, The Cripple of Inishmaan, and The Lieutenant of Inishmore, as well as productions of A Number, Twelfth Night, Glengarry Glen Ross (Suzie Bass Nominee - Best Director), Pygmalion, The Price (Jeff Nomination - Best Director), and 100 Saints You Should Know. A two-time Jeff Award winner, he has appeared at Northlight in dozens of productions and has performed at virtually every major theatre in Chicago, including The Goodman in The Guys, and House and Garden, Steppenwolf in The Royal Family and Playboy of the Western World, and Court in Candide and Comedy of Errors. Film/TV credits include The Fugitive, Body Double, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Early Edition, Cupid and Turks, among others.


Title:            Stella & Lou
Written by:   Bruce Graham
Directed by:  BJ Jones

Featuring:     Rhea Perlman, Francis Guinan and Ed Flynn   

Dates:            Previews May 3-May 9, 2013

                     Regular run: May 11-June 9, 2013
   
Schedule:              

Tuesdays: 7:30pm (except May 21 and June 4)
Wednesdays:   1:00pm (except May 22), and 7:30pm (except May 29)

Thursdays: 7:30pm 
Fridays: 8:00pm (except Opening on May 10 at 7:30pm)
Saturdays: 2:30pm (except May 4) and 8:00pm
Sundays: 2:30pm, and 7:00pm (May 5, 26 and June 2 only)
   
Location:   

Northlight Theatre is located at the North Shore
Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie.

Tickets: 

Previews: $25-$54
Regular run: $25-$72
Student tickets are $15, any performance,
(subject to availability)

Box Office:   

The Box Office is located at 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie.
847.673.6300; northlight.org
http://www.northlight.org/


Stella & Lou is generously supported by The Edgerton Foundation for New American Plays Award, Room and Board, Tom Stringer Design Partners and NorthShore University HealthSystem.

Northlight Theatre aspires to promote change of perspective and encourage compassion by exploring the depth of our humanity across a bold spectrum of theatrical experiences, reflecting our community to the world and the world to our community.

Now in its 38th season, the organization has mounted nearly 200 productions, including over 40 world premieres.  Northlight has earned 151 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations and 28 Awards.  As one of the area’s premier theatre companies, Northlight is a regional magnet for critical and professional acclaim, as well as talent of the highest quality.

Northlight is supported in part by generous contributions from The Allyn Foundation; Arts Midwest; Blackman Kallick Bartelstein, LLP; BMO Harris Bank; Draft FCB; the Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation; ComEd, An Exelon Company; Edgerton Foundation for New American Plays Award; Ernst & Young; Evanston Community Foundation; Gand Music & Sound; The Homestead Hotel; Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; The Irving Harris Foundation; The Joyce Foundation; Kirkland & Ellis Foundation; The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation; Madison Dearborn Partners; Melvoin Award for Playwriting; Modestus Bauer Foundation; North Shore Center for the Performing Arts Foundation; Nuveen Investments; The Offield Family Foundation; The Pauls Foundation; Pioneer Press; Quince at the Homestead; Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation; Room & Board; Sanborn Family Foundation; Shubert Foundation; Skokie Fine Arts Council; Sullivan Family Foundation; Target; and Tom Stringer Design Partners.

PIG DESTROYER Streaming Exclusive Flexi Tracks #freestreaming #grind


Decibel Magazine 100th Issu
                      Exclusive Flexi Tracks
 
The undisputed kings of Grind PIG DESTROYER recently took part in the Decibel Magazine 100th Issue Anniversary Show.  At this show, a limited edition (1100) PIG DESTROYER Flexi was given to all fans attending the event.  The Flexi features three exclusive live PIG DESTROYER songs.  Although the Flexi cannot be purchased Decibel Magazine is giving fans the opportunity to check out the tracks on their "Deciblog".  Listen to the stream HERE.

PIG DESTROYER will be heading over to Europe for select headline and festival dates.  A complete list can be found below.

Additionally PIG DESTROYER will be taking part in this year's Maryland Death Fest scheduled for May 23rd - 26th.   The band will also be a part of the 4th Annual GWAR-B-Q in Richmond, VA on August 17th.  PIG DESTROYER will be performing alongside GWAR, Municipal Waste, COC and many more.

The band was just confirmed for the Hopscotch Fest in Raleigh, NC, where they will perform alongside label-mates ASG and Inter Arma.  The fest is scheduled for September 5th - September 9th.
PIG DESTROYER released a never before heard EP entitled Mass &Volume.  This EP is dedicated to the memory of Pat Egan and to the loving family he left behind.  The EP is a Doom EP and the artwork was created by Arik Roper. 

The EP is available for purchase at http://patlapse.bandcamp.com/album/mass-volume.  This is the only format that this EP is available in and all proceeds of this recording will be donated to the college fund of Pat Egan's daughter Katie.

PIG DESTROYER released their fifth studio album Book Burner this past October on Relapse Records.  Book Burner features 19 tracks with a return to the band's raw, misanthropic sound.  Book Burner is available on multiple formats including CD, Deluxe 2xCD, LP, Deluxe 2xLP, Cassette and Digital.  All of the editions are available for order via Relapse Records here and iTunes here. 

PIG DESTROYER are available for interviews upon request.  To speak with the band, please get in touch with freeman@freemanpromotions.com.  Additional PIG DESTROYER information is available via Relapse.com and the official PIG DESTROYER Facebook page. 

PIG DESTROYER Tour Dates:


5/3: Hasselt, Belgium @ Muziekodroom
5/4: Tilburg, Holland @ Neurotic Death Fest
5/23-5/26: Baltimore, MD @ Maryland Death Fest XI
6/22: Essen, Germany @ Turock (with Misery Index)
6/23: Clisson, France @ Hellfest
8/17: Richmond, VA @ GWAR-B-Q (Hadad's Lake Water Park)
9/5 - 9/7: Raleigh, NC @ Hopscotch Fest w/ Inter Arma, ASG, Sleep, Kurt Vile...

ACT OUT: ChiIL Out With Summer Theatre Highlights for 2013


 Photo Credits:   Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

THE CHICAGO THEATER COMMUNITY,
THE LEADER IN THE U.S. FOR THEATER,
SPRINGS INTO THE SUMMER SEASON

 
         

Summer 2013 will bring a wealth of new works to Chicago stages, closing out this season with some of the most exciting theater in the country, and holding Chicago’s place as a leader on the national scene. Offerings from the city’s more than 200 producing theaters includes a range of special summer programming, featuring everything from the latest musicals and highly anticipated world premieres to updated classics.   

In support, the League of Chicago Theatres has created a comprehensive Summer Theatre Guide that is now available at hotels, theaters, and Hot Tix locations across the Chicago area.  An updated list of summer shows with additional details about each production will be available throughout the season at www.chicagoplays.com.

This summer will see a line-up of new theater on Chicago stages - work that is of the caliber and variety that our theater community is known for,” says Deb Clapp, Executive Director of the League of Chicago Theatres. “The standard of productions we saw this fall earned theatres throughout the city great critical and popular success.  As we near the close of this theatrical season, we are looking forward to seeing Chicago’s dynamic, creative, and vibrant play offerings, ranging from world premieres to anniversary productions, family-friendly shows to hard-hitting dramas.”

This summer, a number of notable theater artists have chosen to make Chicago their artistic home.  Just a few of the notable artists working in Chicago include David Schwimmer, Mary Zimmerman, Rhea Perlman, Keith Huff, Neil LaBute, and Norbert Leo Butz.   
The following is a selection of notable work playing in Chicago throughout the summer:

Musicals include:
Mary Zimmerman adapts and directs the new musical The Jungle Book based on Rudyard Kipling’s time-honored children’s tales. The show, which features music from the classic Disney film, plays at the Goodman Theatre, June 27 – July 28, 2013. 




 

All aboard for Anything Goes, winner of three 2011 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and Choreography. Anything Goes is currently running through May 5, 2013 at Broadway in Chicago at the Cadillac Palace Theatre.   


**Highly recommended!  ChiIL Live Shows caught opening night and adored this old school, Cole Porter classic.   This is a great multigenerational show you can bring the kids and grandparents to.**
 


The musical Barnum by Cy Coleman and Michael Stewart continues at The Mercury Theater through June 16, 2013. 


 
                             
From the creators of South Park comes a new Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon, winner of nine Tony Awards including Best Musical. The Book of Mormon runs through September 08, 2013 at the Bank of America Theatre. Contains explicit language.


**This is one of the funniest shows out there and a true joy to see.   I expected IRREVERENT, but I was surprised by just how RELEVANT this show is.   ChiIL Live Shows caught opening night and I was blindsided by just how deeply dead on and multilayered this production is.   I would not take kids or conservative, religious relatives to this one, but highly recommend it none the less.   The Book of Mormon is one of our top picks for the year for sure!**

 
Black Ensemble Theater’s latest musical written and directed by Jackie Taylor and Rueben Echoles In Memory of Howlin Wolf (Ain’t No Crying the Blues), runs June 01 – August 11, 2013. 



**ChiIL Live Shows has been impressed with Black Ensemble Theater and writer/director Jackie Taylor in particular for years.**



Broadway in Chicago presents Buddy¸ the true story of Buddy Holly’s meteoric rise to fame until his tragic death. Buddy runs June 18 – 30, 2013 at the Cadillac Palace Theatre.

Emerald City Theatre’s production of Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat, adapted from the National Theatre in London, runs June 15 – September 1, 2013 at the Broadway Playhouse.

 





The hit musical Million Dollar Quartet continues through September 2013 at the Apollo Theater. 

 

**Highly recommended!   I took the kids (9 & 11 at the time) and they completely dug it.   We even got in on a sweet back stage tour and meet n greet with the cast after.   If you plan to bring the family, there are monthly family nights with goody bags, free kids tickets, and more!   

**Click here to check out our past Million Dollar Quartet coverage. 





 The smash hit Broadway tour of West Side Story returns to Chicago’s Oriental Theatre, June 11 – 16, 2013. 

**Highly recommended!   I took Sage the last time this classic came through town and we had a thoroughly enjoyable Mom & Daughter Date.

**Click here to check out our past  West Side Story review & coverage.  

 


New Works and adaptations:



 

*Chicago Children’s Theatre in association with Redmoon Theater premieres The Elephant and the Whale, conceived by Redmoon's Frank Maugeri, with an original story and songs by Seth Bockley with composer Kevin O’Donnell. The Elephant and the Whale runs through May 26, 2013 at Ruth Page Center for the Arts.  

**Highly recommended! We're giving away 2 family 4 packs of tickets at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows.   Check back soon for our exclusive video interview with 3 of the creative masterminds behind this amazing production including, Frank Maugeri, Leslie Buxbaum Danzig and David Catlin.**





Steppenwolf presents ensemble member Tarell Alvin McCraney’s world-premiere drama Head of Passes, directed by Tina Landau, through June 9, 2013. 


**ChiIL Live Shows caught opening night and we highly recommend it.   The set design is stunning and the acting and production values are world class. 

 
Bruce Graham’s new play Stella & Lou premieres at Northlight Theatre in a production directed by BJ Jones and starring Rhea Perlman, May 3 – June 9, 2013.

Silk Road Rising presents the world premiere of The Lake Effect by playwright Rajiv Joseph, directed by Timothy Douglas, through May 26, 2013.

Halena Kays directs the world premiere of Jay Torrence’s Chicago story Ivywild at The Hypocrites, April 30 – June 16, 2013. 

  
**ChiIL Live Shows is very much looking forward to this one.   Worlds Collide Alert:   a friend of ours and former teacher at @CircEsteem, the uber talented @Anthony Courser is in this one!   If that's not enough we've got two words for theatre fanatics out there... @Halena Kays.   Need we say more?! 



 
Christine Mary Dunford adapts and directs the New York Times Best-Selling novel Still Alice by Lisa Genova at Lookingglass Theatre through May 25, 2013. 


**Of course we always have high expectations for Lookingglass.   This time they've taken on a different Alice than their playful namesake heroine, although this Alice is nonetheless heroic indeed.   Explore the insidious amnesia that early onset Alzheimer brings, with this poignant and powerful production.   The set design is simple, but the use of projection adds immensely.   The duality of the main character being played by two is also a highly effective narrative device. ChiIL Live Shows caught opening night and we highly recommend it.  


Steep Theatre presents the US Premiere of The Knowledge by John Donnelly and directed by Jonathan Berr, through May 25, 2013.

TimeLine Theatre presents the Chicago premiere of JT Rogers acclaimed Blood and Gifts, directed by Nick Bowling, May 9 – July 28, 2013.
Lookingglass Theatre Company presents Big Lake Big City by Keith Huff and directed by Ensemble Member David Schwimmer. Big Lake Big City runs June 19 – July 28, 2013.

InFusion Theatre Company presents the new work, Fight Girl Battle World by Qui Nguyen and directed by Mitch Golob. Fight Girl Battle World will be presented at Theater Wit, May 14 – June 16, 2013.

The Strange Tree Group premieres Elizabeth Bagby’s The Half-Brothers Mendelssohn at Signal Ensemble Theatre from June 18 – July 20, 2013.

Bailiwick Chicago premieres Mahal, written by Danny Bernardo and directed by Erica Weiss at Stage 773, June 26 – August 04, 2013.


Updated classics:



Profiles Theatre premieres the revised stage version of Neil LaBute’s In the Company of Men, May 10 – June 30, 2013.
                       
Shakespeare’s Henry VIII receives its first production at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, directed by Barbara Gaines. Runs April 30 – June 16, 2013.

 



Mary Arrchie There Company remounts their re-imagined hit production of Tennessee Williams’ classic play The Glass Menagerie at Theater Wit. Runs May 22 – June 30, 2013. 





Shakespeare is spun out and lyrically rewritten over with original beats by the Q Brothers in Othello: The Remix at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Runs through June 15, 2013.  
**ChiIL Live Shows caught opening night and we dug this updated, high energy twist.   Highly recommended for tweens and up.**



Charles Newell directs The Misanthrope and Tartuffe at Court Theatre The Misanthrope runs May 09 – June 16, 2013. Tartuffe runs June 20 – July 14, 2013.

About Chicago theater
Chicago theater is the leader in the U.S. with more than 250 theaters throughout Chicagoland, comprising a rich and varied community ranging from storefront, non-union theaters to the most renowned resident theaters in the country, including 5 which have been honored with Regional Tony Awards, and the largest touring Broadway organization in the nation. Chicago’s theaters serve 5 million audience members annually and have a combined budget of more than $250 million. Chicago produces and/or presents more world premieres annually than any other city in the nation. In 2009-10 alone Chicago theater companies produced more than 130 world premiere productions and adaptations. Each year Chicago theaters send new work to resident theaters across the country, to Broadway, and around the world. 

The League of Chicago Theatres’ Mission Statement
The League of Chicago Theatres is an alliance of theaters which leverages its collective strength to promote, support and advocate for Chicago's theater industry locally, nationally and internationally. The League of Chicago Theatres Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the art of theater in the Chicago area through audience development and support services for theaters and theater professionals.

For a comprehensive list of Chicago productions, visit the League of Chicago website, www.chicagoplays.com .  Discounted tickets are available at www.hottix.com.


 
 Fun for the whole family.... ChiIL out and see a show!

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

ACT OUT OPENING: Season of Snark With THE MOLIÈRE FESTIVAL: THE MISANTHROPE & TARTUFFE at COURT THEATRE



COURT THEATRE LAUNCHES CENTER FOR CLASSIC THEATRE WITH
THE MOLIÈRE FESTIVAL:
THE MISANTHROPE & TARTUFFE
DIRECTED BY ARTISTIC CHARLES NEWELL



ChiIL Live Shows adored The School for Lies based on The Misanthrope at Chicago Shakespeare earlier this year.   Now you can immerse yourself in Moliere, thanks to Court Theatre.
 

Court Theatre Artistic Director Charles Newell and Executive Director Stephen J. Albert present The Molière Festival: The Misanthrope & Tartuffe, written by Molière with a translation by Richard Wilbur, and directed by Artistic Director Charles Newell. The Misanthrope will run May 9 – June 9, and Tartuffe will run June 20 –July 14 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue.

This is a significant moment for Court Theatre.  After a decade of aspiration, Court has finally achieved the creation of the Center for Classic Theatre.  The Center combines the elements of innovative productions, international scholarship, interdisciplinary study and interactive community outreach, in short it allows Court to access the amazing intellectual resources here at the University of Chicago to deepen the work on our stages, as well as maximize the impact of these productions on our surrounding communities,” says Artistic Director Charles Newell.

The Molière Festival launches the Center for Classic Theatre at the University of Chicago campus, dedicated to the creation and curation of large-scale interdisciplinary theatrical experiences.  With the production of The Misanthrope and Tartuffe during the International Molière Festival, Court Theatre is taking its place as a hub for intellectual activity that unites artists and scholars to foster collaboration between theatre and a myriad of other academic disciplines. The Center for Classic Theatre signals a new way for a professional theatre to be in residence at a major university: it is an approach to producing that fully accesses the resources that surround Court Theatre, enabling the Company to continue its work producing world premiere translations and adaptations of classic texts, turn its theatrical productions into interdisciplinary events with direct ties to University coursework, forge connections with international arts organizations and universities, and reach new audiences. 

The Molière Festival was created from a longstanding collaboration between Artistic Director Charles Newell and University of Chicago Professor Larry Norman, who notably collaborated on the 2010 production of Tony Kushner’s adaptation of Pierre Cornielle’s The Illusion.  Professor Norman is a leading French scholar and was planning to convene an international conference on Molière during the spring of 2013 in collaboration with The Sorbonne University and the University of Glasgow.  This event inspired the decision to produce two Molière plays at Court, thus incorporating The Molière Festival as part of the company’s 2012-13 Season. Professor Norman developed a class on Molière which is being taught concurrently with Court’s rehearsal process, allowing scholarship and the artistic process to feed and influence each other – a hallmark of the Center for Classic Theatre.  This interdisciplinary collaboration then inspired an additional class at the University of Chicago Graham School being offered to the general public, which also allows access to the artistic process surrounding the Molière Festival. Court Theatre has also partnered with the Alliance Francaise, Chicago’s center for French Culture, to engage their constituency with the unique opportunities afforded through the production of The Misanthrope and Tartuffe.      

The Molière Festival: The Misanthrope & Tartuffe is sponsored by Boeing, Rita and John Canning, David and Marilyn Fatt Vitale, the Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Marion M. Lloyd Court Theatre Fund
 
The Misanthrope
In a society where social graces reign supreme, the cynical Alceste causes a scandal when he refuses to play his part in the charade. Torn between his love for the coquettish Célimène and the pretenses he so despises, Alceste finds himself alone in a world where words are brandished like weapons and status is defined by style. Unwilling to play the hypocrite any longer, Alceste must decide his destiny. Artistic Director Charles Newell returns to his roots in the French Baroque to give this wickedly funny and deliciously droll comedy of manners new life.

The cast of The Misanthrope includes Kamal Angelo Bolden (Philinte), Patrese D. McClain (Eliante), A.C. Smith (Oronte), Travis Turner (Acaste), Elizabeth Ledo (Basque/DuBoise/Guard), Michael Pogue (Clitandre), Grace Gealey (Celimene), Allen Gilmore (Arsinoe), and Erik Hellman (Alceste).

The creative team includes John Culbert (scenic design), Jacqueline Firkins (costume design), Keith Parham (lighting design), Andre Pluess (sound design), and Drew Dir (dramaturgy). Sara Gammage is the Production Stage Manager and William Collins is the Stage Manager.

The Misanthrope will run May 9 – June 9, 2013 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue. Previews are May 9 – May 17, 2013.  The opening press performance is on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 8:00 p.m. Curtain times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. with Saturday matinees at 3 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $35 to $45 for preview performances; $45 to $65 for regular run performances. Tickets are available at the Box Office, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online at www.CourtTheatre.org. Student and senior discounts available. Groups of 10 or more may purchase discounted tickets by calling Kate Vangeloff at 773-834-3243.

Tartuffe
A devilish comedy about the art of deception and the price of misplaced faith, Molière’s Tartuffe reveals a tale as outrageous as it is insightful. When the cunning imposter Tartuffe wields a pretense of piety to capture the imagination of aging family-man Orgon, the scoundrel succeeds in insinuating himself into the patriarch’s home, throwing Orgon’s family into utter chaos. As Orgon’s foolish infatuation with Tartuffe’s fraudulent religious fervor grows, the depth of Tartuffe’s deception turns dangerous. Artistic Director Charles Newell directs the French classic Tartuffe with a provocative contemporary approach that will illicit deep laughter of recognition.

The cast of Tartuffe includes Philip Earl Johnson (Tartuffe), Kamal Angelo Bolden (Damis), Patrese D. McClain (Elmire), A.C. Smith (Orgon), Travis Turner (Valere), Elizabeth Ledo (Darine), Michael Pogue (Cleante), Grace Gealey (Mariane), Allen Gilmore (Mme Pernelle), and Erik Hellman (Laurant).  Additional cast to be announced.

The creative team includes John Culbert (scenic design), Jacqueline Firkins (costume design), Keith Parham (lighting design), Joshua Horvath (sound design), Drew Dir (dramaturgy). Sara Gammage is the Production Stage Manager and William Collins is the Stage Manager.

Tartuffe will run June 20 – July 14, 2013 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue. Previews are June 20 – June 27, 2013.  The opening press performance is on Friday, June 28, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.  Curtain times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. with Saturday matinees at 3 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $35 to $45 for preview performances; $45 to $65 for regular run performances. Tickets are available at the Box Office, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online at www.CourtTheatre.org. Student and senior discounts available. Groups of 10 or more may purchase discounted tickets by calling Kate Vangeloff at 773-834-3243.


ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Charles Newell (Artistic Director/Director) has been Artistic Director of Court Theatre since 1994, where he has directed over 30 productions. He made his Chicago directorial debut in 1993 with The Triumph of Love, which won the Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Production. Directorial highlights at Court include James Joyce’s “The Dead,” Angels in America, An Iliad, Porgy and Bess, Three Tall Women, The Year of Magical Thinking, The Wild Duck, Caroline, Or Change, Titus Andronicus, Arcadia, Man of La Mancha, Uncle Vanya, Raisin, The Glass Menagerie, Travesties, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Hamlet, and The Invention of Love.  Charlie has also directed at the Goodman Theatre (Rock ‘n’ Roll), the Guthrie Theater (Resident Director: The History Cycle, Cymbeline), Arena Stage, John Houseman’s The Acting Company (Staff Repertory Director), the California and Alabama Shakespeare Festivals, Juilliard, and New York University. He is the recipient of the 1992 TCG Alan Schneider Director Award. He has served on the Board of Theatre Communications Group, as well as on several panels for the National Endowment for the Arts. Opera directing credits include Marc Blitzstein’s Regina at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Rigoletto at Opera Theatre of St. Louis. Charlie is a multiple Joseph Jefferson Award (Chicago’s highest theatrical honor) nominee and recipient.

Kamal Angelo Bolden (Philinte – The Misanthrope; Damis - Tartuffe) was most recently seen at Court Theatre as Youngblood in August Wilson's Jitney, at A Red Orchid Theatre as Donell in The Opponent, at the Goodman Theatre as Tony in Paul Oakley Stovall's Immediate Family, and as Black Man/Actor 2 in the world premiere of We Are Proud to Present... at Victory Gardens Theater.  Since leaving Nashville for Chicago three years ago, Kamal has originated the roles of Jackie Robinson in the Chicago Children's Theatre's world premiere of Jackie and Me, and Chad Deity in Victory Gardens Theatre's world premiere of The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity. He has also worked with Actors Theatre of Louisville (The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity) and won a Black Theatre Alliance Award for Best Leading Actor for his work in Athol Fugard’s The Island at Remy Bumppo Theatre.  Kamal has appeared in many independent films and national commercials, and has made guest appearances on BOSS, Lights Out, and The Row.  He holds a B.S. in Business Administration-Entrepreneurship from Bradley University and is a proud Artistic Associate of Erasing the Distance.

Grace Gealey (Celimene – The Misanthrope; Mariane - Tartuffe) recently appeared in American Theater Company’s production of Rent, directed by David Cromer. Regional credits include: “Delilah” (Venus Flytrap), “Rosalita” (Skippy Jon Jones Mini-Tour, Theaterworks USA), “Maggie” (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof), “Anita” (West Side Story), “Vera Charles” (Mame), “Jenny Diver” (The Threepenny Opera), “Olivia” (Twelfth Night).

Allen Gilmore (Arsinoe – The Misanthrope; Mme Pernelle - Tartuffe) was last seen at Court Theater as Tumbo in Jitney and as Sizwe Banzi in Sizwe Banzi is Dead, both directed by Ron OJ Parson. He has recently performed at Yale Repertory Theatre and Berkeley Repertory Theatre in A Doctor In Spite of Himself. He just completed the run of A Servant of Two Masters at The Shakespeare Theater in Washington, D.C., and following Jitney, he will perform A Servant of Two Masters at Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Allen returns to Court in the spring for the Moliere comedies The Misanthrope and Tartuffe. He is a proud artistic associate of Next Theater and a proud ensemble member of Congo Square Theater Company.

Erik Hellman (Alceste – The Misanthrope; Laurant - Tartuffe) happily returns to Court after previously appearing in Comedy of Errors, The Mystery of Irma Vep (for which he received a Joseph Jefferson Award nomination for lead actor), Titus Andronicus, and Arcadia. His recent Chicago credits include Eastland (Lookingglass Theatre); Hesperia (Writers’ Theatre); Madness of  King George III, Taming of the Shrew, and Macbeth and Edward II (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre); Honest, Elephant Man, and Huck Finn (Steppenwolf Theatre); All My Sons (Timeline); The Busy World is Hushed (Next Theatre); Tartuffe (Remy Bumppo); Hatfield, and McCoy (The House Theatre of Chicago); and multiple performances as an ensemble member of Strawdog Theatre Company. Outside of Chicago, Erik has appeared at the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Geva Theatre, Syracuse Stage, Indianapolis Repertory Theatre, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, Houston’s Stages Repertory Theatre and Off-Broadway at The Mirror Repertory Theatre. In film and on TV, he has appeared in The Dark Knight, The Chicago Code, and Boss.



Phillip Earl Johnson (Tartuffe - Tartuffe) returns to Court Theatre having just played Gabriel Conroy in James Joyce’s “The Dead” and Tom Sergeant in Skylight. Other credits include The Mystery Cycle (Jesus) at Court Theatre and the National tour of Angels in America (Joe). Other Chicago credits include Talking Pictures (Willis) at the Goodman Theatre, Old Glory (Peter) at Writers’ Theatre, The Big Meal (Man #2) at American Theater Company, Picasso at the Lapin Agile (Picasso) at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and The Herbal Bed (Rafe) at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.  Regional credits include Cyrano de Bergerac (Cyrano) at the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.  Recent television credits include Chicago Fire (NBC) and Unemployed (MTV).  Philip Earl Johnson has also performed for 23 years as MooNiE the Magnif’Cent.

Elizabeth Ledo (Basque/DuBoise/Guard – The Misanthrope; Darine - Tartuffe) previously appeared at Court in The Comedy of Errors, The Real Thing, Uncle Vanya, and Titus Andronicus.  Chicago credits include: Boleros for the Disenchanted (Goodman Theatre), Amadeus, Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Funk It Up About Nothin’ (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), Morningstar and Homebody/Kabul (Steppenwolf Theatre), The Old Curiosity Shop (Lookinglass Theatre), Arms and the Man (Writers’ Theatre), The Chalk Garden (Northlight Theatre), Barefoot in the Park and The Odd Couple (Drury Lane), Say You Love Satan (About Face Theatre), Pinocchio (Marriot Lincolnshire Theatre). Regional credits include: Romeo and Juliet and Comedy of Errors (Summer Shakespeare at Notre Dame), Arcadia (Indiana Repertory Theatre) and 20 productions with Milwaukee Repertory Theatre where some favorites include Almost Maine, Escape From Happiness, The Lonesome West, Wit, The Clean House, and The Crucible.  Elizabeth is a voice talent with Stewart Talent Agency and has done numerous televisions and radio spots as well as a regular with The Twilight Zone Radio Dramas produced by The Falcon Picture Group.  Elizabeth is a proud graduate of Loyola University of Chicago and has been a member of Actors Equity since 1999.

Patrese D. McClain (Eliante – The Misanthrope; Elmire - Tartuffe) previously appeared at Court Theatre in Spunk. She was recently seen in Ruined (St. Louis Black Repertory Company) and ABC’s Detroit 1-8-7. Chicago credits include Goodman Theatre, Lookingglass Theatre Company, and CollaborAction Theatre, where she is a proud member. Regional credits include Two Trains Running (Geva Theatre Center, Rochester, NY) and a Kevin Kline-nominated performance in Crumbs from the Table of Joy (Mustard Seed Theatre, St. Louis). She received her B.F.A. from Howard University and her M.F.A. from Pennsylvania State University. Patrese is also the Executive Director of Pure ART, a non-profit organization that offers arts education outreach to inner city youth and produces events to showcase local artists.

Michael Pogue (Clitandre – The Misanthrope; Cleante - Tartuffe) returns to Court Theatre where he previously appeared in Angels in America and Spunk. His other credits include The Brother/Sister Plays and Carter’s Way at Steppenwolf Theatre Company; Radio Golf at Raven Theatre; Lobby Hero at Redtwist Theatre; Night and Day at Remy Bumppo Theatre Company; and Six Degrees of Separation at Eclipse Theatre Company.

A.C. Smith (Oronte – The Misanthrope; Orgon - Tartuffe) makes his seventh appearance at Court Theatre. Past productions include, Jitney, the world premiere of Invisible Man, Fences (Jeff Award – Actor in a Principal Role – Play), The First Breeze of Summer, The Piano Lesson, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.  Smith, a Chicago native, has performed in many theaters here, including Victory Gardens Theatre, Timeline Theatre Company, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, Illinois Theatre Center, Second City, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Smith has also performed in many regional theatres all across the country. When not in Chicago, he can often be seen performing at the St. Louis Black Repertory Company, where he has been a member for over seventeen years, and is a nine time Woody King Jr. Award winner.

Travis Turner (Acaste – The Misanthrope; Valere - Tartuffe) returns to Court Theatre where his credits include The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, Carousel (also Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, CT) and Raisin (Black Theatre Alliance Award Nomination, Best Featured Actor). Other credits include: Britten's A Midsummer Night's Dream (Lyric Opera of Chicago); Loving Repeating: A Musical of Gertrude Stein (About Face); Ragtime and High School Musical (Drury Lane Oakbrook); Hairspray, The 25th Annual Putnam Co. Spelling Bee, High School Musical and Footloose (Marriott Lincolnshire); Willy Wonka, Short Shakespeare! The Taming of the Shrew, Seussical and The Princess and the Pea (Chicago Shakespeare). Education/ Training: Northwestern and the School at Steppenwolf.


Now in its 58th season, Court Theatre is guided by its mission to discover the power of classic theatre. Court endeavors to make a lasting contribution to American theatre by expanding the canon of translations, adaptations, and classic texts. Court revives lost masterpieces, illuminates familiar texts, and distinguishes fresh, modern classics. Court engages and inspires its audience by providing artistically distinguished productions, audience enrichment activities, and student educational experiences.

Court Theatre is the professional theatre in residence at the University of Chicago continuing to discover the power of classic theatre. Court Theatre operates under an agreement between the League of Resident Theatres and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Productions are made possible in part by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, and by a City Arts grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. Court Theatre is a constituent of Theatre Communications Group, the national organization for the American Theatre; the League of Resident Theatres; the Illinois Humanities Council; the Arts Alliance Illinois; the League of Chicago Theatres; and Hyde Park Cultural Alliance.

FACT SHEET
The Misanthrope
In a society where social graces reign supreme, the cynical Alceste causes a scandal when he refuses to play his part in the charade. Torn between his love for the coquettish Célimène and the pretenses he so despises, Alceste finds himself alone in a world where words are brandished like weapons and status is defined by style. Unwilling to play the hypocrite any longer, Alceste must decide his destiny. Artistic Director Charles Newell returns to his roots in the French Baroque to give this wickedly funny and deliciously droll comedy of manners new life.

Title:        The Misanthrope
Written by:    Molière
Adaptation by:   Richard Wilbur
Directed by:    Charles Newell
Featuring:    Kamal Angelo Bolden (Philinte), Patrese D. McClain (Eliante), A.C. Smith (Oronte), Travis Turner (Acaste), Elizabeth Ledo (Basque/DuBoise/Guard), Michael Pogue (Clitandre), Grace Gealey (Celimene), Allen Gilmore (Arsinoe), and Erik Hellman (Alceste)
Dates:        Previews: May 9 – May 17, 2013
    Press opening: Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 8:00PM        
Regular run:     May 22 - June 9, 2013
Schedule:         Wed & Thurs:     7:30 PM
Fridays:    8:00 PM
Saturdays:    3:00 PM & 8:00 PM 
Sundays:          2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Location:    Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.
Tickets:        $35-$45 previews
        $45-$65 regular run
Box Office:    Located at 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online www.CourtTheatre.org

Tartuffe
A devilish comedy about the art of deception and the price of misplaced faith, Molière’s Tartuffe reveals a tale as outrageous as it is insightful. When the cunning imposter Tartuffe wields a pretense of piety to capture the imagination of aging family-man Orgon, the scoundrel succeeds in insinuating himself into the patriarch’s home, throwing Orgon’s family into utter chaos. As Orgon’s foolish infatuation with Tartuffe’s fraudulent religious fervor grows, the depth of Tartuffe’s deception turns dangerous. Artistic Director Charles Newell directs the French classic Tartuffe with a provocative contemporary approach that will illicit deep laughter of recognition.

Title:        Tartuffe
Written by:    Molière
Adaptation by:    Richard Wilbur
Directed by:    Charles Newell
Featuring:    Philip Earl Johnson (Tartuffe), Kamal Angelo Bolden (Damis), Patrese D. McClain (Elmire), A.C. Smith (Orgon), Travis Turner (Valere), Elizabeth Ledo (Darine), Michael Pogue (Cleante), Grace Gealey (Mariane), Allen Gilmore (Mme Pernelle), and Erik Hellman (Laurant).  Additional cast to be announced.
Dates:        Previews: June 20 – June 27, 2013
    Press opening: Friday, June 28 at 8:00PM        
Regular run:     July 3 – July 14, 2013 (no performance on July 4)
Schedule:         Wed & Thurs:     7:30 PM
Fridays:    8:00 PM
Saturdays:    3:00 PM & 8:00 PM 
Sundays:          2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Location:    Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.
Tickets:        $35-$45 previews
        $45-$65 regular run
Box Office:    Located at 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online www.CourtTheatre.org

VICIOUS RUMORS Singer Brian Allen to Miss European Tour #metal


 
VICIOUS RUMORS is about to start a massive European tour from May 3 to June 1 2013. However with great sadness we just found out singer Brian Allen will not be able to tour during the month of May due to sudden family matters. We wish Brian all the best during this time. Brian will return to VICIOUS RUMORS for the summer European tour July/ Aug 2013 and The Metal Masters Tour featuring Vicious Rumors /Leatherwolf/ Seven Witches from Sept 18 to Oct 25 2013. With everything in place for May's tour the show must go on. We are proud to announce former VICIOUS RUMORS singer and Helstar main man James Rivera will fill in for Brian Allen during the month of May/June in Europe.

"James is part of the VR family and were so proud to have him join us at this hard time" Geoff Thorpe said. "Don't miss this special line up of VR on the Electric Punishment Tour all over Europe. We want to thank all our partners, agents, promoters and fans in advance. The only bad tour is the one you don't do!! See you at the shows for night after night of unforgettable Heavy Metal."
VICIOUS RUMORS released their first video from their new studio album "Electric Punishment". The video for the song "I Am The Gun"  was filmed and produced by Mike Sloat.
http://youtu.be/lVHD-wuidKY

"Electric Punishment" is out now in Germany and Europe through SPV / Steamhammer and will be released in US/Canada on May 7th. It will be available as a jewel case version, double gatefold colored vinyl and download.

_______________________________________

VICIOUS RUMORS live 2013
03.05. E-Oviedo - Sala Tribeca
04.05. E-Madrid - Pounding Metal Festival
05.05. E-Barcelona - Boveda
07.05. D-Osnabrück - Bastard Club
08.05. D-Hamburg - Bambi Galore
09.05. D-Koblenz - Florinsmarkt
10.05. D-Duisburg - Glückaufhalle
11.05. I-Milan - Metalitalia Festival
12.05. D-Obermarchtal - Kreuz
14.05. D-Berlin - K17
15.05. D-Gifhorn - In Live
16.05. D-Siegen - Vortex
17.05. D-Weiher - Live Music Hall
18.05. CZ-Ostrava - Barrak Music Club
19.05. A-Vienna - Escape Metal Corner
20.05. HU-Budapest - Club 202
22.05. D-Munich - Garage
23.05. D-Uelsen - UJT
24.05. NL-Kerkrade - The Rock Temple
25.05. NL-Rotterdam - Baroeg
26.05. NL-Tilburg - Little Devil
28.05. D-Kassel - K19
29.05. D-Bremen - Meisenfrei
30.05. CH-Uster - Starclub
31.05. F-Bartenheim - Palace Loisirs
01.06. A-Dornbirn - Schlachthaus
26.07. D-Brande/Hörnerkirchen - Headbangers Open Air
27.07. NL-Steenwijk - Stonehenge Festival
03.08. D-Hameln - K3
10.08. B-Deinze - Alcatraz Festival

NORTH AMERICA
21.09. US-Indianapolis,IN - Metal Fest
23.09. US-St.Paul,MN - Station 4
24.09. US-Detroit,MI - iRock
28.09. US-Rochester, NY - The Montage
30.09. US-Poughkeepsie,NY - The Chance Theater
01.10. US-Manhatten.NY - Webster Hall
03.10. US-Philadelphia,PA - Voltage Lounge
05.10. US-Spartanburg,SC - Ground Zero
10.10. US-Dallas,TX - The Boiler Room
12.10. US-Arvada,CO - Jammin Joes

________________________________________

www.viciousrumors.com
www.spv.de

TESSERACT "Of Matter - Proxy" Streaming Exclusively on Spotify #freestreaming #progressiverock



UK's progressive rock band TESSERACT is gearing up for the release of their upcoming album and European tour.  Starting today  "Of Matter - Proxy", is streaming exclusively on Spotify.  Get a first listen HERE.

The band has been rehearsing nonstop and recently recorded footage of them in their practice space jamming on the track "Singularity". You can view the footage here: http://youtu.be/cGsK1M9O_EI

Video production has begun "Singularity".  The video will be produced by Horsie In The Hedge / Pari Passu Films and featuring the Emmy Award winning director of photography, Mark Wolf as well as the practical effects team that worked on Sky Fall and Prometheus, the video is sure to be as cinematically stunning as the music itself.

'Altered State' which will be released on May 28, 2013 in North America via Century Media Records.  Divided into four movements: Of Matter, Of Mind, Of Reality and Of Energy, 'Altered State' represents the transformations that TESSERACT has gone through over the past few years.  The Law of Conservation of Energy states that: In a closed system energy is conserved, nothing is lost. It merely changes from one state to another.

TESSERACT has released a series of trailers as well. They can be viewed below.

The band's first trailer release can be view here: http://youtu.be/RIysXnFSEdo
Their second trailer here: http://youtu.be/jxE0SZK5y3A
Their third trailer here:http://youtu.be/z-QmAdI7YDk
Their final trailer here http://youtu.be/7QDQWhusH88

'Altered State' was produced, mixed, mastered and engineered by TESSERACT guitarist, Acle Kahney, assisted by bassist, Amos Williams at Acle's 4D Sounds studio, and marks the first full release with new vocalist, Ashe O'Hara.

The band is set to head out with longtime friends, PERIPHERY, throughout mainland Europe and then headline dates throughout the UK just prior to album release.  Worldwide touring will follow throughout the year.

'Altered State'
Track List:
01. Of Matter - Proxy
02. Of Matter - Retrospect
03. Of Matter - Resist
04. Of Mind - Nocturne
05. Of Mind - Exile
06. Of Reality - Eclipse
07. Of Reality - Palingenesis
08. Of Reality - Calabi-Yau
09. Of Energy - Singularity
10. Of Energy - Embers

www.facebook.com/tesseractband
www.twitter.com/tesseractband
www.centurymedia.com

TOUR DATES

MAY
WITH PERIPHERY
01   LE NOUVEAU CASINO, PARIS - FR*
02   DOORNROOSJE, NIJMEGEN - NL*
04   MATRIX, BOCHUM - DE*
05   RÄUCHERKAMMER, WIESBADEN - DE*
06   MAGNET, BERLIN - DE*
07   LOGO, HAMBURG - DE*
08   LUXOR, COLOGNE - DE*
09   P60, AMSTELVEN - NL*
11   TAKEDOWN | TWENTY THIRTEEN, SOUTHAMPTON UNI, SOUTHAMPTON - UK

HEADLINE DATES WITH THE ALGORITHM AND ENOCHIAN THEORY
12   CORPORATION, SHEFFIELD - UK**
13   IVORY BLACKS, GLASGOW - UK**
14   ROADHOUSE, MANCHESTER - UK**
15   THE FLEECE, BRISTOL - UK**
16   ISLINGTON ACADEMY, LONDON - UK**

WHAT WE'RE PLAYING: Oxymoron Of The Week--Solitaire With Friends #PopCap #review #videogames #sponsored



Popcap games like Book Worm, Bejeweled  and Plants vs. Zombies have long been favs of ours.   They add new games frequently and we're super stoked to introduce their latest--Solitaire Blitz!  

*I'm a millionaire on line!   Disclosure: Thanks to Popcap games for sending us 1 million in virtual Silver (currency in the Solitaire Blitz realm) and inviting us to experience a new world of solitaire on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. All opinions are our own.



Oxymoron Of The Week--Solitaire With Friends:

You can play alone, as the solitaire name implies, or you can kick it up a notch and compete against others to top the Leaderboard or play with your friends and see their scoresNo contest, a bit of a contest makes the game that much more fun!


Clear cards in 60 seconds, meet colorful characters, and uncover rare artwork and priceless antiques. Plus, unlock a raft of new in-game achievements including awards for accuracy, win streaks and high scores.

  Solitaire Blitz™ is now in the Apple App Store for free! 
 


This is NOT your grandma's solitaire:
 
Our family digs games--classics, card games, board games, video games and skills toys.   The kids (10 & 12) and I tried it out and Solitaire Blitz rocks!   The energy does run out fast if you don't buy more or wait patiently... but since the game itself is free, it's not too much of a pain and a worthy investment if you find yourself playing a lot.   Solitaire Blitz is a fun way to relax and unstress.  The fast paced play keeps your mind sharp and the competitive elements keep it interesting.

Solitaire Blitz morphs the game of solitaire into a timed thinking game. The object is to attempt to clear all of the cards before time runs out. There are 60 seconds on the clock by default, but you can earn more by clearing cards, or purchase more time with silver coins. Like traditional solitaire, you are presented with card stacks that you need to move around and *clear* by stacking cards on top of each other in order. However, unlike the regular games, you can stack backwards. And the Joker can be used as a wild card.



 

Solitaire Blitz for iOS lets players encounter new social twists to the classic game in a fast-paced race. The better you play, the more treasures you recover. Plus you can earn corns to purchase Boosts for the game. Set in the ocean, you will dive into uncharted waters to recover treasures including rare artwork and priceless antiques. Claiming these treasures after a game might rack up anywhere from 5 to 5000 silver coins.



Game Features:


    •    High Speed Meets High Stakes: Clear the decks in just 60 seconds. Score big bonuses for long winning streaks, accuracy and more.
    •    Amazing Achievements: Unlock a boatload of new in-game achievements, including awards for accuracy, win streaks and high scores.
    •    Fun with Fishy Friends: Get to know Pearl the mermaid, Otis the worm, Noodles the octopus and many more as they provide tips, tricks and score multipliers!
    •    A Trove of Treasures: Collect treasures, hunt for rare trinkets and earn coins to purchase boosts that supercharge your game.
    •    Fun, Social and Competitive: Connect to Facebook to compete with friends and battle it out for leaderboard supremacy!

**Click here for your FREE
Solitaire Blitz Download for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch in the App Store or play on Facebook**

 *Disclosure: Thanks to Popcap games for sponsoring this post. All opinions are our own.


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