Rising Sun Performance Company

STRIPPER LESBIANS

2011-09-08T16:06:00.002-04:00

Got your attention, didn't I?

Hi all, it's Amanda and I am SUPER HAPPY AND EXCITED (!!!) to announce we will officially be a part of the 2012 Frigid Festival! After hard work fundraising and hard work sitting by the computer, finger-ready-on-the-mouse-until-the-clock-strikes-midnight (thanks Jeff!), we are officially in!

We have a lot of work ahead of us but Frigid here we come!

RS Show Development

2011-08-24T16:32:00.003-04:00

Hello, Internet.

My name's Kate Foster and I'm the resident playwright for Rising Sun, this fabulous downtown OOB theater company. Maybe you've heard of them, maybe you've lusted after them, maybe you've seen EVERY show Rising Sun's EVER mounted... Good for you!

We have an exciting fall coming up, pulling on the talents of our fearless leadership, a brand new Rat-Pack of AMAZING directors and a wildly beautiful and funny ensemble. No, but seriously, I'm being modest.

Look out for upcoming development and production of:

Cabaret- PROJECTED Fall 2011

Using song, text and sexyness, five actresses talk about what brought them to NYC from Israel, Texas, Turkey... New Jersey, and what keeps them under NY's rent-poor spell.

STRIPPER-LESBIANS et al- PROJECTED Fall 2011/Winter 2012

A new play by Kate Foster. Directed by Jeff Woodbridge. Featuring: Temi Hason, Amanda Berry, Joe Beaudin. A woman's studies major becomes a stripper for her thesis while falling in love with.. a stripper. Do stripper's really make the best girlfriends?

Michelle Bachmann- PROJECTED Winter 2012

A solo show about the most exciting woman in America.

Wives of Henry 8- PROJECTED Fall 2012

A show that puts Big Love to shame.

Keep checking the blog for show updates!

http://risingsunnyc.blogspot.com/

XOXO,

Gossip Girl & Rising Sun

CREATIVE PODS...

2011-08-18T19:08:00.001-04:00

We're creating "Pods" this fall.

What is a "POD" you ask.. Well the dictionary version states the following:

pod
Spelled [pod] Show IPA noun, verb, pod•ded, pod•ding.
noun

1. a somewhat elongated, two-valved seed vessel, as that of the pea or bean.
2. a dehiscent fruit or pericarp having several seeds.
3. Entomology .
a. a insect egg case.
b. compact mass of insect eggs.
4. a streamlined enclosure, housing, or detachable container of some kind: an engine pod under the wing of an aircraft.
5. a protective compartment, as for an automobile's instrument gauges.
6. Mining . an orebody that has an elongated or lenticular shape.
7. Radio and Television Slang . a cluster of brief commercials or spot announcements.

We are spending the next 3 months trying out our "Pods" and we look forward to seeing what happens!

Whats a "POD" mean to you? What do you think the "Pods" mean for us?

Only 3 Chances Left To See Cravings!!!

2011-07-18T20:16:00.002-04:00

HORSE TRADE THEATER GROUP

PRESENTS

RISING SUN PERFORMANCE COMPANY’S

5TH ANNUAL

ONE ACT SERIES

"Cravings..."

Six plays that explore human desire and its consequences.

July 7th - 23rd

6 Plays, 5 Directors, 11 Actors, 9 Shows

One Intense Line Up

Limited Run! Limited Seating!

Only 9 Performances!

Advance purchase recommended!

Don't miss your ONLY CHANCE to see the Critically Acclaimed Ensemble of RSP this summer!

"Rising Sun Performance Company is a youthful, enthusiastic company and I look forward to seeing more from them." William Coyle, Off Off Online

"It's worth the price of admission to see the Rising Sun Performance Company's aspiring talent." Jennifer Rathbone, Theater Online

Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays

ONLY THREE SHOWS LEFT!

July 21st, 22nd, & 23rd

8PM

The Red Room Theater

85 East 4th Street, NYC

3rd Floor

ALL SEASON 10 TICKETS ARE ON SALE AT WWW.SMARTTIX.COM

or call Smarttix: 212-868-4444

Adults $15

Students & Seniors $12

Pay What You Can Thursdays

Trains: 6 to Astor Place, L to 2nd Ave, R/N to Broadway/8th St NYU or F to 1st Ave

Selected through a collaborative and intense vetting process, these plays were chosen out of over 450 plays submitted to Rising Sun Performance Company. Each piece was reviewed and approved by at least two company members and then moved on to our three month long reading series for audience feedback. The final plays presented in RSP's 5th Annual One Act Series were the top scorers from Audience & Ensemble Ballots- only 14 plays from 450 moved onto the reading series.

Delilah

Written by Len Cuthbert

Directed by Mia Y. Anderson

Featuring Andrea Cordaro & Tedra Millan

A girl asks her best friend to cheer her on one last time, the hardest yet. A compassionate, witty way to tell a story about one of the most difficult choices we will ever have to make in our lives.

On Top

Written By John Patrick Bray

Directed by Jeffrey Woodbridge

Featuring Lindsay Beecher & Joe Beaudin

Does it count as cheating if you're on top? A couple redefines their relationship, and infidelity, in a grocery store.

Vultures

Written By Greg Abbott

Directed By Ted Gorodetzky

Featuring Rick Benson, Joe Beaudin & Charissa Jones

1994 Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Kevin Carter's photo of a dying child with a vulture in wait brings him fame, but also controversy on when a journalist also has a duty to help a fellow human being.

Sit Still

Written by Jae Kramisen

Directed by Tim Errickson

Featuring Jason Vinoles & Ashley Bloom

Memory and truth collide as a man tries to get to the bottom of a woman's missing husband.

Some of All Parts

Written By Mrinalini Kamath

Directed By Derek Shore

Featuring: Lindsay Beecher, Jarrod Luke & EJ Assi

If he seems too good to be true... he probably is. Dating in this city just got a whole lot weirder.

The Craving

Written By David L. Williams

Directed by Mia Y. Anderson

Featuring Ashley Miller & EJ Assi

Sometimes a carrot isn't just a carrot. And sometimes what you think you're agreeing to in a relationship takes you to a place you never thought you'd go.

Please note that shows have adult content and language. Recommended for 13 and older.

RSP on Facebook!

Tweet Tweet In The Sun, RSP on Twitter

www.risingsunnyc.com

www.horsetrade.info

ONE ACT FRENZY!

2011-06-06T18:04:00.003-04:00

Hi Rising Sun fans, Amanda here. I'm a new member of the company but I've been mucking around with these awesome people for about six months now (already?!) and it's been crazy, confusing, exciting, and inspiring; but mostly, as I am happy to report, it's been a lot of fun.

We're gearing up for season 10 and we've just finished selecting our one-acts! After months of reading through hundreds of plays by (mostly) talented new authors, we've picked the cream of the crop. Drumroll, please....

Sit Still by Jae Kramisen

Vultures by Greg Abbott

The Craving by David Williams

Delilah by Len Cuthbert

The Male of the Species by Mrinalini Kamath

and On Top, by John Patrick Bray

It's safe to say that we've got some really challenging material, for both actors and audiences, in this line up and it's sure to be a wild ride. From sexy cannibalism to justified adultery and murder-induced psychosis (in 2 cases!) - we've got it all! And talking apes, too!

Performances will be July 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23. Get ready.

PS: My fingers are crossed that someone will come across this post by googling "sexy cannibalism." Or maybe not...

Word Cloud

2011-04-26T04:25:00.000-04:00

Bring it One Acts!

2011-04-19T14:50:00.001-04:00

Hello RSP fans, family and followers. My name is Ashley and I am one of RSP’s newest members. Since joining, it has been a rapid ride of fun, meetings, rehearsals and workshops. It feels amazing to be a part of a community of artists that love to create, whether we are working on a new play or breaking out in a spontaneous dance break. I promise…it is always a good time. That being said, it is even more exciting to finally perform for Rising Sun. Every year, Rising Sun holds a FREE One Act Reading Series that last for several months. At the end of the readings, we select the best plays (with the help of our audience members) for our summer festival. Bring it on one acts…we are ready!

This Tuesday night we will be holding our April One Act Reading and it is FREE. Where and when you ask? 7pm Under St Marks. 94 St Marks Place @ 1^st Avenue. Be a part of RSP for a night and be there. The One Acts will be directed by Mia Anderson and Flor Bromley and I am lucky to perform in two of the readings.

Whether you bring a date, friends or come alone, come out and hang with RSP. It will be fun. Guaranteed.

Back in the Swing

2011-04-07T13:16:00.002-04:00

Samantha here. What a lovely RSP family we are becoming! We just had our ensemble intensive 2 weeks ago and I really feel it morphed us into a cohesive group, which was the goal. We had some fantastic workshops, in which we had the opportunity to work with each other in a safe environment.

On a different note, both the newbies and the old members have been incredibly supportive now that I'm back in the city. (I was away for a month in California due to my mom's sudden passing.) I can't thank my theatrical family enough for expressing concern and love.

Our yard sale is coming up on Sunday by Astoria Park and we are about to speed ahead into the One Act Festival and the Speakeasy! So much to do! Stay tuned.

Sam

I will be singing scene 9

2011-03-16T17:34:00.004-04:00

My sister, who is also a young actress, told me a remarkable story about auditioning and I just had to share it. We've all been there. Sort of.

My sister is truly terrified of singing.. The first time in her adult life that she had to sing a song for an audition was during her second year of college when she was applying for the British American Drama Academy in London. She lost a great deal of sleep knowing that she would need to sing alone in a room with three people staring her in the face, and could not for the life of her come up with a song that did not feel terribly embarrassing. She finally decided it would be best to just pick a song that she loved, so she settled on a selection from her favorite musical Phantom of the Opera. She grew up listening to the CD, and pretty much knew the show by heart. She knew she wasn’t a strong enough singer to do one of Christine’s solos, so she decided the best thing to do would be to sing a selection sung by the Phantom, Christine and Raul together. Once she began practicing, she realized it might get a bit confusing for the auditors. So she went out and bought a phantom mask and two hand puppets: a ballerina for Christine (for obvious reasons) and a cop for Raul (because that was the only choice other than a farmer puppet). About a half hour before the audition, she went into the room and realized she didn’t know the song title because she had only been practicing from my memory, not from the book. She called our mother and had her hunt down the CD we had at home to find the title of the selection. It took her a few moments, but finally she said, “Here it is Briana. It’s called Scene Nine, Beyond the Lake.” That’s when she realized she had not chosen a song; She had chosen a scene. When she got to my audition, she carried her props inside a plastic bag and set them in a back corner of the room. After her monologues, when the auditors asked to hear her sixteen bars, she ran to the corner and retrieved her mask and puppets. As she did this, she recalls them looking a bit worried and confused. There were a few moments of silence while she put on the mask, which was broken by them asking, “What song are you singing today?” She answered as confidently as she could, “I will be singing Scene 9. Beyond the Lake.” She sang the selection and when she finished there was a moment of silence in the room. She then decided to explain by saying, “I could only find a cop and a farmer,” in case their confusion was in regards to Raul being a police officer. There were a few more beats of silence before the Dean said, “We ask each actor to sing so that we might see a different side of them, and I suppose you have done that…” Then they thanked her and she left.

F.A.Q Ensemble Auditions!

2011-01-05T18:44:00.002-05:00

F.A.Q. : Ensemble Auditions

What exactly would I be auditioning for?
This is unlike most auditions in that we are not casting for a particular show. We are looking for artistic partners/collaborators/creators/co-producers, people to be a part of the Rising Sun Performance Company for the foreseeable future, invested in the well being of the company as a whole. If you are an actor looking for a resume credit or single show experience, we wish you the best, but this is probably not the place for you. On occasion, we do have opportunities for guest artists to join us for role specific opportunities- these casting notices are listed seperately and are not a part of the once a year Ensemble auditions.

What are you looking for in an artist?
It is very important that you read our Manifesto and Mission statement. These are our core values and we take them very seriously. Our company puts great emphasis on the entire creative process, recognizing that not everything needs to become a fully staged performance to have creative merit. Likewise, the believe that everyone shares the hard work to strengthen our ensemble.

We are looking for multi faceted theatre artists with a passion for group dynamics and process oriented ensemble work. Individuals looking to stretch themselves, their talents and both creative and technical theatrical skills. Hard workers who live, breath and eat theatre. We welcome artists of all backgrounds, techniques and training. We encourage our members in cross-disciplinary experimentation. Actors, dancers, singers, storytellers, Directors, Playwrights, Designers, and Technicians are all welcome to audition and/or apply for an interview.

What exactly is Rising Sun Performance Company?

A Theatrical family of varied backgrounds, training, techniques all with a shared philosophy and committment to supporting the ensemble as a whole. We value exploration, community and collaboration along with some good old fashioned elbow grease!

Rising Sun Performance Company (RSP) is one of the current theater companies in the Off-Off Broadway community with an established reputation for its talented ensemble of writers, directors and actors in a strong selection of original works balanced by revivals of offbeat published works. We are a collaborative theater group of actors, directors, designers and playwrights with shared theatrical values. We value mutual respect, hard work, & the acceptance of occasional "failure" by traditional standards in order to have freedom for creative discovery, collaboration, play and learning. Rising Sun does not aim to limit or define itself in any way. RSP focuses on the journey of present, what passions, voices, visions and talents represent the ensemble in its present form. The work chosen is representative of the given time and make up of our company. Each ensemble member is considered a part of the production team and has direct involvement at all levels of the process.

What sort of commitment is required in being an ensemble member of RSP?
As a member of the ensemble you are expected to:

Creative involvement in at least 1 creative project or production per calendar year (As Performer, director, designer, writer) Rehearsal periods can be anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 months depending on the project. Rehearsals times vary. Performances can run for 1 night to 6 months. It depends entirely on the project.

Serve as collaborator/co-producer/co-creator with your fellow ensemble members which includes:
Proposals of new works, review of outside submissions and development of performance projects

Active involvement on Marketing & Promotions of all shows

Active and Continual involvement with Audience Development & Promotions

General support/involvement for production and running needs of company

Prepare for and attend monthly company meetings that will have varied agendas including business and fundraising.

Prepare for and attend scheduled company functions (e.g. benefits, conferences, Retreats, NYC Theatre events, etc.)

Serve on at least one committee as an active producer of the company

Completion of 2 Technical/Production Jobs or a Staff Position per calendar year

Share in the Financial Responsibility of the Company : Active involvement on Fundraisers, Continued Fund-raising thru the year and ticket sales (everyone must work to raise our yearly expenses of $20-30k)

Share an online presence on social networking sites and blogs

Attendance & participation to a minimum of 8 Lab Sessions Yearly

Attendance & Participation at our annual Ensemble Intensive

General support & activity at our home theatre for events, theatre maintenance & Festivals

Support/mentorship of Apprentice company members & Interns

Participation in any eligibility requirements by the New York Innovative Theatre Awards

As you can see this is alot, its a big committment that doesn't just affect you. Talk to your job, loved ones, school, parents, high maintenance plants before auditioning.

This schedule can be intense and while you'll get fulfiling roles, new skills and a theatre family, all your loved ones will get is less of you. Make sure everybody who matters knows what you’d be getting into in advance.

So does this schedule mean that I can’t perform in other productions?
It means that you will find it difficult in the first 6 months to a year of joining RSP. Many Rising Sun folks are very involved in outside projects and do find time to be active in the theatre community, films, tours, etc. We highly encourage this. As you get acclimated to how being a RSPer impacts your day-to-day, you will learn how be more efficient with the other aspects of your life and be able to plan accordingly. We believe and trust that everyone is an adult and should be/can be responsible to balance their committments and life as needed, with the understanding that the RSP ensemble remains a high priority committment. We do not recommend being in multiple theatre/ensemble companies within your first year of joining the ensemble.

What will the audition/interview be like?

You should be aware that you will be auditioning for the senior members of the company, so there will be quite a few people watching you. If you are called back you will be auditioning for/working with the entire company, so again its a large group of people that will see your work.

A huge part of our audition process, is not only talent but seeing if we're the right match for each other. Would we work well together? Can we be in the rehearsal room for up to 8 hours a day? Ask us questions, we like that! and do your homework before the audition, reading this is a step in the right direction.

Prepare: 2 to 4 minutes of material
This should include 2 contrasting monologues (1 minute each), Contemporary preferred, original writing welcome
You can also include, a short dance combination, 16 bars of any song accapella, stupid human tricks, special talents, etc
Show yourself off. We want to get to know YOU! What makes you unique?
Don't try to be what you think we want you to be! Be YOU!

Callbacks: If we feel like you would be a good fit for the Ensemble (and sometimes guest artists) we will invite you to participate in an 3-5 Hour Call back. Yes thats right 3-5 HOURS. This is a long day, but WE PROMISE ITS A LOT OF FUN!
This is your chance to see how we work, what our personalities are and a glimpse into the type of work that we do.

The callback consists of:
The first is a group introduction, to the company, the ensemble and each other
A group warm up of theatre games
A Group Movement/Basic Dance (actor friendly) segement
Ensemble Work & Improv
Cold Readings of scenes/scripts

We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes that you can move in, comfy shoes (if you have yoga or dance clothes wear those), bring some water, and some snacks, along with your calendar, a notepad and pen, and whatever else you need to get thru the day. There will be a couple of breaks thru the day for you to check your voicemail, grab a sandwich, etc.

I’m not an actor, so you don’t really want to see me, right?
Not true! We have had some amazing artists that don't come from traditional theatre backgrounds, and we also look for directors, designers, playwrights, dancers who want a creative home. So if you aren't a traditional actor, bring a portfolio of past work, sample writing, a poem, a dance, a song. Who are you? We want to know. Bring material that shows you off.

Oh No! All of your appointments are taken! What do I do?
You will be given a spot on our waiting list, and we will see those on our waiting list as time allows over the course of audition days. We try really hard to get everyone in.

When will you hold auditions again?
We assess our company’s needs every year around the same time and hold auditions usually within the first few months of the Year (January to March)
Casting notices are on our Webpage, backstage and most online casting sites. Join our mailing list and you will recieve online notifications as well.

Do I need to quit my day job if I am cast?
NO! In fact, if you aren't in a stable home/job/life situation, you might want to hold off on trying to join the company. We all do this out of love and while we are occasionally able to do profit sharing from shows we are quite simply not in a situation to pay a living wage. Don't starve for your art, we can normally work around people's "day/night job" schedules.

Would I get paid at all?
Not exactly.. We occasionally do profit sharing and tips collecting after shows.

I auditioned before and I wasn’t cast. Should I audition again?
Please DO audition for us again. There have been many ensemble members who have had to audition more than once. Sometimes timing is off, we don't have enough room for the talent and sometimes we just need to see you more than once. Give us another chance and we'll do the same for you :)

Feel free to drop us a line to ask for post audition feedback or if you have questions prior to the audition.

Wow it sounds like a lot, I don't think I can committ to all of this but want to get involved! Is there any other way to be a part of the RSP Family?
Yeah there is! We have an amazing group of technicians, designers, volunteers, ushers, interns who love us but can't give their whole life to us. We have an internship program, workshops and volunteer opportunities all year round. Drop us a line at info@risingsunnyc.com and we'll get you involved!

Crunch Time

2010-11-15T19:32:00.002-05:00

I have had no time lately. No time to sleep, no time to eat, no time for the gym, no time to see shows or friends or the new boyfriend. Three jobs and grad school applications are taking up my life. I somehow got it together and attended the RSP meeting last Tuesday night and, to my delight, got some work done AND was inspired by my RSP cohorts. They graciously helped me narrow down some monologue choices for grad school auditions. No judgment - just honest, helpful, supportive feedback. Now I am happy to report a solid comedic contemporary monologue in my pocket (and any female actor knows how difficult that is).

We then read Amerikan Mine by John Patrick Bray, which was thought-provoking and challenging. It had been a while since I'd read a play just for the joy of reading it; I've been scouring plays for monologues and little else.

So, thanks, Rising Sun, for making my week a little bit easier.

Back to the grind,
Samantha

Kegger!

2010-06-17T11:58:00.003-04:00

June 26th come party with us at Pat O'Briens at the corner of 88th & 2nd Ave! $10 gets you a braclet which includes free beer from 930-1030 and $4 drink specials all night!! Beer Pong tourney in our private room $5 per person per game. Prizes for the 1st and 2nd place winners. So grab a partner and come out to show your skills!

Come out and dance to the sounds of DJ Silence. He will keep the party going all night long. If you haven't partied with DJ Silence put your dancing shoes on, because you wont stop movin

Hope to see you there! Im bringin game

Xo,
Linz

Office Night

2010-06-03T23:42:00.002-04:00

So... Akia here.. Its been a long time since I've worked a full office shift
and its been nice to feel "useful"

We had some first time producers in one of the theatres, and it made me feel like an old "vet"
Its nice to help others who are figuring out how to run a board, or where the ipod connects to the laptop to the sound pack to the dimmers...

We have two new Interns, Teresa, who will be working on Arts Administration and Leigh-Ann who will be working with Lindsay in production. Its exciting to have new people who are EXCITED to be learning.

I always forget all of the little things that we do here until I'm showing someone else how to do them. Its all in the details...

Anyway, we are gearing up for a busy summer... lots more to come

Thanks for reading

RSP Gossip Girl - Did You Finish Your Supper?

2010-04-29T19:21:00.003-04:00

Good evening, LowerEastSiders,

Always the cultured New Yorker, I caught RSP's mainstage production of The Last Supper one night this past week. Cast 1 had some steamy, naughty moments...can't wait to see what Cast 2 has up their sleeve.

Food, politics, and murder all in one evening? I can only think of a few reasons NOT to run and see this show. But I'll leave that to your imagination.

xoxo,
RSP Girl

http://www.smarttix.com/show.aspx?showcode=LAS18

Gossip Girl - RSP style

2010-04-12T16:26:00.002-04:00

Good afternoon, LowerEastSiders,

It looks like The Last Supper is almost upon us. Who will be eating their last meal? You'll have to head to the show and see...

Spotted: new company members doing a homeless photo shoot at the intersection of Broadway and Houston. What would Bloomberg think?

xoxo,
RSP Girl

2010-04-08T19:09:00.002-04:00

hello everyone!

just me and mikie ... mikie and me .... holdin down the fort at Horse Trade and eating some sour skittles.... Pretty low key here ... a show opening over at Marks tonight and the second night of Vignettes of the Apocolypse upstairs in the Red Room.

Just havin a ball being Rising Sun Company members :) you know, the usual.....

FOR THE LOVE OF PERFORMING...

2010-04-07T15:04:00.001-04:00

Nicole Howard here…

Winter is finally behind us, the sun is shining, birds are chirping and Rising Sun members are getting their theatre on. This being my second season as a Rising Sun Ensemble member has made me giddy with excitement. Last Supper Rehearsals are well underway. Time has flown and I must say it’s hard to believe that we are less than three weeks until opening.

One of my favorite phenomenon of being in a show is that moment; about a month before opening when you feel like everything is a mess. You don’t know your lines, your character is unclear and you literally feel like pulling your hair out. Then as if by magic, it all comes together. All it takes is that one rehearsal. You look around at your fellow cast mates, and just have to smile. You’ve got this. Your heart races a little faster and your body temperature rises ever so slightly, opening night is creeping closer and you suddenly can’t wait to be performing in front of an excited audience.

See you at the show!

Once a blogger...

2010-04-05T17:09:00.002-04:00

I used to blog. Well, no. More like, I wrote three entries and then stopped. I got shy. Now, thanks to RSP, I'm jumping back in. Not only am I posting here, but I posted to my own old blog. This is what happens when a creative type is stuck temping inside on a gorgeous day like today. I hope anyone reading has enjoyed the sunlight already...consider me jealous.

Another newbie to Rising Sun! I'm super excited to find an artistic home, with warm, fuzzy non-crazy theatre types, such as myself. I look forward to detailing my experiences with The Last Supper; I'll be house managing for part of the run. You never know what kind of juicy stories can come from audience members. Stay tuned.

On another note, I saw a wonderful show at Theatre Lab yesterday - Authenicating Eileen with Tin Lily Productions. I wanted to give that cast and production team a shout out. Catch it if you can. They have one more weekend AND they give discounts for students and actors - score!

http://www.tinlily.org/Tin-Lily-Home-Page/current

A Breath of Fresh Air

2010-04-03T21:01:00.002-04:00

MJ here. (Michael, Jonesy, Michael-Lee, Midge, Mike Jones) I answer to all. First-time blogger and newbie Ensemble member but I have to say, it's already been such a great experience. This company consists of some of the most supportive, sincere, and talented people I've had the privilege to work with. I remember feeling like I completely bombed my audition for RSP but getting called back. When I went to the call-back and got a taste of what the company is, I knew it was for me! And of all the auditions I've had in my life, this is the ONLY one I can honestly say I enjoyed and came out as a stronger actor. Since then, I've had so much fun reading one acts (which has helped me greatly with cold-read auditions!), working on The Last Supper (which is coming along great!), and I am looking forward to getting in on some of the incredible classes RSP offers. It really has refreshed that stagnant feeling I had as an actor. Now I have a Theatre Company I can call home, and a family of actors who are always pushing me and supporting me. Thanks so much RSP!

new member happiness!!

2010-03-31T21:40:00.004-04:00

Hi I'm Carley!
This is my first time blogging, ever! I am really excited to be a part of RSP, it is such a fun and energetic group of people. Everyone has been so warm and welcoming, really and truly. I feel like that must be so unique and hard to come by. I am enjoying starting to become involved in the multitudes of goings on that RSP does and contributes to. It is so interesting getting to know everyone's different and varied lives. I feel really lucky to be a part of such an innovative group of people!

Thats all for now!!
-Carley

Tickets onsale for SPEAKEASY!

2010-03-03T15:36:00.000-05:00

Tickets are now onsale for "Shh. Its A SpeakEasy"
One Night Only Event!
Don't Miss Out!

Tickets now onsale for The Last Supper!

2010-03-03T15:35:00.000-05:00

Tickets are Now ONSALE for "The Last Supper"
Limited seating per show! Don't miss out!

News From The Brooklyn Front

2010-02-24T18:51:00.003-05:00

Hi, I'm Alexia, RSP Ensemble member and Williamsburg denizen. I'm writing from my home office (read: bedroom) in the Italian heart of the north Brooklyn nabe. My landlords are, as usual, cooking up a lot of tomato sauce. It's like my life and the goings-on of RSP are intrinsically linked! You did know that tomatoes play a "vital" role in our upcoming production, The Last Supper, right? Well, if not, just keep it in mind.

I've been with RSP since last January, and I've really enjoyed being a part of the company. During this year's ensemble callbacks, I felt excited about what this year can hold for us. Not only do we have The Last Supper, but our One Act Series is more involved than last year, and I actually get to direct one of the early staged readings (March 16, April 20, and May 18). Audience members will get to vote, and the top 4-6 plays will be produced as an evening of one-acts in August! Last year's one-act festival was my first time being cast in an RSP show, and it was beyond fun (and a learning experience!). I made a lot of great friends during the run, and I know the same will happen this year.

The Speakeasy is right around the corner, so stay tuned for the password. You don't want to be left out in the cold; there'll be Hot Box Girls, Hold'em, and High Jinks! Just don't spill the beans to the flatfoots and it'll be the bee's knees, fella!

Season 9 Kick Off Party a Smashing Success!

2010-02-22T14:45:00.006-05:00

On Tuesday February 9th RSP had its Season 9 Kick Off Party

A welcome party for our New Ensemble, the Official Announcement of our Season, and a Fundraiser for our next show "The Last Supper".

We had nearly 70 people, drinking, eating, talking, dancing, watched the movie and closed out the night with some fun Karaoke! Surprise Guest Dan Rosen, the Screenwriter/Playwright of The Last Supper even made an appearance!!

Here are a few photos! Enjoy

Our Ensemble & Guest Artists Gather for a Quick Impromptu Photo Op....

Accepting Submissions for 2010 Ensemble

2009-11-19T18:36:00.002-05:00

Open Call for Rising Sun Performance Company
Accepting Submissions for 2010 Ensemble

Seeking: Non-Equity Actors/Actresses, Playwrights, Directors, Designers, Interns, Technicians, Stage Managers & Teaching Artists
Multi-Faceted, Double & Triple Threats and Unique Talents a Plus
Minorities are highly encouraged to apply/audition

Auditions dates TBA

2010 Theatrical Season will include: NYC stage Premiere of the Major motion Film “Last Supper” (Long term development), Play Reading Series & 4th Annual One Act Series; As well as education & ensemble development opportunities.

Ensemble Company: Committed to the principle of ensemble performance through the collaboration of a company of actors, directors and playwrights, Rising Sun Performance Company's mission is to advance the vitality and diversity of American theater by nurturing artists, encouraging repeatable creative relationships, and contributing new works and revitalized pre-existing work to the national canon. Rising Sun Performance Company realizes this goal by providing a safe artistic home which stimulates risk-taking without limits of genre or agenda. Based in the Lower East Side of NYC, RSP is run by artists for artists to allow them to create their own opportunities instead of their opportunities creating them.

Ensemble members are expected to carry a part of the responsibility of the financial, artistic and production quality and be committed to the success of the entire season. The commitment level is to the company and not individual productions or performances.

The Ensemble is NO PAY, profit sharing is possible based on the success of the season and individual shows.

Prepare: 4 minutes of material: can include: 2 contrasting monologues, 1 minute each. 16 bars accapella and/or prepared movement/dance pieces are also welcome but not required. Original material encouraged

Send Headshots & Resumes by January 10th
To receive more information & request an appointment email: submissions@risingsunnyc.com & rspcasting@gmail.com

Free Theatre Class Day!

2009-10-09T14:29:00.002-04:00

Sunday October 18th
10am to 4PM

Rising Sun Performance Company Presents the launch of its

2010 Theatre Educational Department!

To help introduce our program to the theatrical community we are offering a FREE day of classes to the public!

"Without the support of Rising Sun, I would never have been able to make it as an artist in New York City."

"The family-like atmosphere allowed me to grow significantly as an actor"

"...there are no other people I know that are as passionate, caring and committed to everything they do."

WOW, thats just some of what former students, guest artists & ensemble members have to say about their learning experiences with Rising Sun!

We believe strongly in nurturing theatre artists at every level, and to kick off our 2010 educational programming Rising Sun is offering a day of free sample classes!

Come take a free class with Local & Nationally renowned Theatre Artists that come from varied backgrounds such as Blue Man Group, The Actors Studio, NYU, Clowns without Borders, and many other impressive credits! (Teacher bios are at bottom of email)

Space is limited! REGISTER TODAY!

All Classes are Free & Open to all skill levels!!

Beginners, mid-career and professional students are welcome!

Email us at submissions@risingsunnyc.com &

Please be sure to include the following information:

Full Name,

Phone number,

Email and

which classes you want to attend!

More feedback from former students & ensemble!

" It was great to have the opportunity to be challenged and grow as an artist, to find a home and people that are as passionate as you are. It is a great place to work, grow, expand, learn, and challenge yourself in a safe and supportive environment"

"I loved the people I worked with they were all just stellar people: kind, considerate, passionate about what they did, talented, and supportive. New York was hard at times but "Rising Sun" was easy. In a place that sometimes was so cold artistically "Rising Sun" was warm"

"I could not ask for better exposure as a beginning actor!"

Attendees are welcome to participate all day, in a single class or multiple classes.

Teachers & Workshops & Schedule subject to change

10AM- Sign in, welcome & Registration

10:30AM First Class- Physical Theatre with Peter Musante- class description coming soon

11:30AM Second Class- Playing the Villain with Kitt Lavoie

On Playing the Villain: A discussion and series of script analysis and acting exercises focused on the traps inherent in playing the antagonist in a play, how to avoid those traps, and the critical ways in which refusing to play “the bad guy” makes a character all the more dangerous. An introduction to an approach for creating an expansive world and history for a character – and the ways to make that history work to create a textured, nuanced, personal, and deeply accessible performance.

12:30PM Third Class- Monologue Coaching and Cold Readings:

How to get your foot in the door- With Jason Tyne-Zimmerman

Monologue Coaching and Cold Readings: There's more to auditioning than just showing off your talent. Talent aside, you also need to make people want to work with you. By considering the gestalt of the audition situation, you can showcase yourself more effectively and show off your talents more clearly.Please bring your standard audition material. A prepared monologue is recommended to attend this class

1:30PM Fourth Class- Viewpoints and Composition: How to listen to and follow your impulses. with Jason Tyne-Zimmerman

Viewpoints is a vocabulary for thinking about and acting, movement, and gesture. It is not a "technique" in and of itself, but will allow you to identify internal impulses and external catalysts to enhance and support any acting technique that you already know.

Please dress comfortably and be prepared to move.

2:30PM Fifth Class- Lucid Body with Christine Maddox: Class description coming soon

3:30PM Class Enrollment & Q& A

4PM End of Day

Teacher Bios

Peter Musante is a Brooklyn-based actor/musician currently performing Off-Broadway in Blue Man Group. As a Blue Man, he's worked in Chicago, Boston, Orlando, Bogota, Colombia and can be seen in ad campaigns all over Vegas and Brazil. Out of blue, he has taught improv to kids, improvised in drag at Universal Studios Hollywood, crooned cowboy tunes in Tokyo, worked as a standardized patient for medical students and, most recently, developed workshops for children with autism. After graduating from UCLA's School of Theater in 2005, he played Huck Finn in Big River at Vista, CA's Moonlight Amphitheater and won the San Diego Theater Critic's Circle Award for Best Actor in a Musical.

Kitt Lavoie has directed more than seventy-five shows in New York City, including the original productions of more than thirty plays. He is author of seventeen produced plays and musical books, including Twice Rather Perish and The Median Line (both winners of the Herbert J. Robinson Award for Dramatic Writing). Kitt also works regularly as an associate stage and television director Lonny Price, with whom he has recently worked on the Roundabout Theatre’s Broadway revival of 110 in the Shade (starring Audra McDonald and John Cullum), the American Premiere of Night Season by Rebecca Liefkowitz, the PBS filming of the Tony Award winning John Doyle revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Company, and the New York Philharmonic production and PBS filming of Camelot (starring Gabriel Byrne), as well as the feature film version of Athol Fugard's play Master Harold... and the boys, starring Freddie Highmore and Ving Rhames, which is currently filming in Cape Town, South Africa. Kitt has also appeared onstage as Macbeth, Benedick (Much Ado...), and Roy Cohn Angels in America, among others, and has designed sets/lights for more than sixty shows. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Directing from the Actors Studio Drama School, is a founding member of the Professional Playwrights Workshop at the Players Club and is a Member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers (SSDC). Kitt is Artistic Director and co-founder of The CRY HAVOC Company. Most recently his work was published by Samuel French and he was nominated for a New York Innovative Theatre Award for Outstanding Original Short Script. (www.cryhavoccompany.org). http://www.kittlavoie.com/

Jason Tyne-Zimmerman earned a Masters degree from NYU (New York University) in Educational Theatre and a Masters of Fine Art from NU (Northwestern University). At Rising Sun he has directed "Baby with the Bathwater", "And That's the Way It is (if you think so)", and an invisible theatre project in the style of Augusto Boal. Additionally, he has acted off-Broadway in "Tony 'n' Tina's Wedding", "An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein", and "A Change of Seasons". Jason has been working with Rising Sun since 2002.

Teaching philosophy: In teaching the arts, I make it my primary objective to facilitate the creation of the artists' vision, to utilize the artists' mind and body as a tool, and to focus on the creative processes of the artist. With all things, my teaching is always student-centric. I never expect my students to speak with my voice or create the art that I would create, but I do expect my students to be open to new processes to create their own art.

Christina Maddox - Bio coming soon

Akia (Director/Founding Artistic Director) has been is an active member of the flourishing Off-Off/Indie & Off Broadway theatre communities having produced, directed, and performed with numerous NYC companies since 1997. She is the Company Manager for the New York Production of the International Hit “Blue Man Group” at the Astor Place Theatre. She has worked as Associate Producer/ Production Coordinator for The Puerto Rican Traveling theatre, where she co-produced the Playwrights Unit Reading Series and INSIGHT 13 Series, as General Manager for the 1st annual FRIGID Festival and as Volunteer Coordinator for the 2009 FRIGID Festival. Proudly, she is the Founding Artistic Director of the Rising Sun Performance Company, now in its eighth season, and has been involved on all levels with each of its 35+ productions. In addition she is a Board Member of The Paul Butterfield Fund & Society, and Company Manager & Producer for The New York Innovative Theatre Awards, where she serves on their honorary awards committee as Sub-Committee Chairman and as an At-Large Judge.

Goodnight Lovin' Trail at FRINGE!

2009-10-06T18:44:00.012-04:00

We had a fantastic time down in Wilmington Delaware. It was a truly bonding experience and we hope to take Goodnight Lovin' Trail out on the FRINGE Circuit next year.

Nic, Olivia, Akia & Matthew
We're missing JPB, Tiffini, Elaine & Lindsay on this trip! :(

Rehearsal, they take it to the streets!
Olivia & Nic

Mid-Rehearsal Nic & Olivia singing the closing song

We transformed a raw store front into a performance space
We used the street and environment as real elements into the show.
It was great!

Nic Mevoli in character outside the venue

Nic, Akia & Olivia

Getting Ready to Hit the Road!!

2009-09-28T20:30:00.000-04:00

We had our last rehearsal for Goodnight Lovin' Trail yesterday, it went well.
We hit some rough emotional spots and it was good to spend some time working on them.
We're all getting excited to hit the road on Wednesday!
If you're in the area come check the show out!

Some rehearsal pictures!

2009-09-03T01:14:00.004-04:00

Its our Birthday!

2009-09-01T17:28:00.001-04:00

So we're having a birthday and you're invited!
Monday September 14th
We're kickin it Old School and going to have a party filled with Games, Drinks, Dancing and fun.
Party Favors, Balloons, Twister, Musical Chairs, Birthday Cake and BEER!

What do you want to do at our Birthday Party? Let us know!

Please write us a Happy Birthday Message in the comments below!
Thanks for keepin us going after all these years!
Cheers
Akia & the Crew..

Off to watch rehearsal

2009-08-31T20:45:00.003-04:00

So, I'm excited to dash off to get a sneak peek of all the hard work that Travis and the Dotty crew have been doing. They don't know I'm stopping by, so it will be fun to see them working in the "raw".

Its a big cast, a new show and outdoors, there are so many challenges with this, but its exciting!
We haven't done any children's theatre in 3 years, and its nice to get back to it!

I'll update from my sneak peek later!

Akia
Founding Artistic Director..

Here is the fabulous cast & crew of Dotty Dot!

2009-08-31T20:28:00.017-04:00

See Dotty Dot for FREE!

September 19th, 20th, 26th & 27th!

Alexia Tate (Dotty Dot) has lived in NYC for the past 12 years, via Cincinnati, Knoxville, and Ithaca, NY. Favorite roles include Drummond in INHERIT THE WIND, Mrs. Howell in the first national tour of GILLIGAN'S ISLAND THE MUSICAL, Leslie Ann in Paula Vogel's HOT N THROBBING, and Captain Blaze in The NYC Fringe Festival's CRUISING TO CROATIA. After studying at Cincinnati's School for the Creative and Performing Arts in the early 80s, Alexia returned to theater training 23 years later at T. Schrieber Studio in New York. When not performing, Alexia enjoys playing ukulele and solving crossword puzzles.

Nicole Nicastro (Mom Dot) is extremely excited to be a part of the Dotty Dot cast. She just got off the national tour with VeggieTales Live! where she played Bob the Tomato and was a featured dancer!! Some of her favorite regional credits include A Chorus Line (Morales), High School Musical (Gabriella), Lucky Stiff (Rita LaPorta) and 42nd Street (Peggy Sawyer). Nicole will once again be heading off to Abilene, KS to do the comedy Moon Over Buffalo this October! Nicole would like to thank Travis and the Rising Sun Company for letting her join the family!!

Elaine Jones (Musician) is a recent graduate of humanities from San Francisco State University and a seasoned painter and contractor. Elaine is the technical director for the Horse Trade Theatre Group. She is currently making her breakthrough into the NYC musical scene as the musician for Dotty Dot The Musical. Elaine is thrilled to be working alongside such a talented cast and crew an honored to be a part of another Rising Sun production. Special thanks to Mom, my two Dads, Kim and Laura.

Flor Bromley (Mary Ann) recently made her NYC debut with Rising Sun's Production of “Twisted”. In her native Peru, she graduated from La Escuela de Teatro de la Universidad Catolica and appeared in several plays and events as an actress and as a storyteller. She moved to New York to pursue her dream of performing on Broadway, where she recently graduated from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. She has recently appeared as Bebe in an Spanish production of “La Noche de los Asesinos” in Stamford, CT. She is proud to be a member of Rising Sun. She dedicates this performance to her parents and Steve.

Nicole Howard (Polka Dot) holds a,B.F.A. in acting and music performance from C.W. Post of Long Island University. She recently performed with Rising Sun in the Twisted one act series. Some of her favorite acting credits include, 365 Days Plays with the Public Theatre, Lucy in A Christmas in Greenwich Village, Mary in Flesh and Blood, and Maggie in Ah! Broadway. Nicole can also be seen in the film BLOG, which was recently shown at the Film Gate International Film Festival. Untitled Hearts, Nicole’s first staged performance of her written work, was recently produced here in NYC. She can be reached at NIKI930@aol.com

Katherine Stults (Jenny) recent theatre credits include: The Doctor and the Devils, Phaedre, King Lear, Trojan Women 2.0, Not Another showcase, Macbeth, and Waiting For Godot. TV/Film credits include The Post Show, Guiding Light, As The World Turns, Tom’s Phone. She is a company member of Rising Sun Performance Company and a co-founder of Rag n’ Bone Theatre Company. She has a BA in Theatre Arts from Drew University and has studied conservatory at the Michael Howard Studios and The British American Drama Academy.

Ryan Bowie (Hamilton) is excited to be working with the Rising Sun Performance Company and the cast of Dotty Dot. He was last seen at the Maples Repertory Theatre as Jack Chesney in Charley’s Aunt and Freddy Eynsford Hill in My Fair Lady. Previous credits include Jonas-The Giver, Ryan Evans- Disney’s High School Musical, Joe Hardy-Damn Yankees, Jack-Into the Woods, Dick-Dames at Sea, Matt-The Fantasticks, Bobby-Crazy for You, Finch-How to Succeed in Business…,and David in Sorry! Wrong Chimney! Ryan has a BA in Vocal Performance and a BA in Theatre-Acting. He leaves New York in October to lead the cast in Jack Frost Saves Christmas and Plaid Tidings.

Dan Vidor (Bottomless Pit) hails from Baltimore, Maryland and received his B.F.A. in acting from UMBC and is an alumni from The Atlantic Theater Summer Intensive. His Baltimore credits include The Bald Soprano, Action, The Ubu Plays, Silence Cunning Exile, Twelfth Night, The Tempest, and Oklahoma amongst others. New York credits include: Bardolatry, Under Milk Wood, and The Merchant of Venice. He is an active member of The Rising Sun Performance Company. Dan can also be seen in the 28th street film: Book of Lore. He is thrilled to be apart of Dotty Dot. Thank you to all of my friends, family, and teachers for your constant support.

Travis Kendrick (Co-writer/Lyricist, Director, Choreographer) graduated from Point Park University’s Conservatory of the Performing Arts with a B.F.A in Musical Theatre, and has worked professionally as an actor and stage manager around the country since. Favorite directing credits include: Richard Greenberg’s Life Under Water and “Gloryday” from Michael John LaChiusa’s See What I Wanna See (PPU), Echos and Louder Than Words (People International Inc.), and “Little Red Cap, a Kabuki Fairy Tale (Experimental Theatre Project). Assistant Directing credits include: Seven Doors (Premiere Theatre and Performance) and Seize The Day (People International Inc.). He is a founding member/committee member of the Experimental Theatre Project, where he has collaborated on many original projects such as Illusions, Generation I, and as the co-writer and director of the original staged reading and workshop performances of Dotty Dot. Travis is a member of Rising Sun Performance Company, and wants to thank Akia for this opportunity, and the rest of the company, his friends and family, and Ryan for all their love and support!

Michael McManus was born and raised in The Bronx, NY. A Rising Sun Performance Company member, who is an actor, writer, lyricist and also an artist working with collage, paint, sculpture, metal work and welding. Michael is excited to be making his stage design debut with Dotty Dot.

Tiffini Minatel (Costume Design) first came to New York City on April 8, 1991 to become a great NYC theater actress! Many roles, jobs and life events later, she has found herself on the other side of theater and loving it! Her first foray into performing was at the tender age of 6 when she and her best friend, Sabrina, performed their version of Wizard Of Oz in the backyard, with Sabrina being Dorothy, and Tiffini being everyone else, including the stage manager and producer! Should have known then! After “retiring” from the restaurant business and enjoying 1-½ years of not working, Tiffini decided it was time to get back to the theater! She started working with Rising Sun as an Administrative intern in September of 2006. She was interested in learning how to transfer her restaurant operations skills to theater, her first love. So far Tiffini has learned how to: manage theaters, hire actors & techies, find inexpensive/free rehearsal space, find & use free publicity, write grants (sort of!) and how to throw a successful fundraiser party! And she’s still not done learning! Her goal is producing a show and learning everything it takes to do so! Thank you for coming to see the show and supporting her on her journey!

We've entered the Blogosphere!

2009-08-25T22:14:00.000-04:00

Welcome to our Blog!
We'll be posting our adventures in Off Off Broadway producing and living here!

Sitting here in the offices of Horse TRADE Theatre Group (home of the Red Room, Kraine, UNDER St Marks Theatres), our home, where we run the spaces on Tuesday nights..

Penny's open mike is running over at St Marks and we're working on installing new speakers in the Kraine, Red Room is the last venue for me to close down.. Then its off to the Bronx!

I sit here in the office where I've spent time, working, playing, drinking, stressing, planning, dreaming for the past 4 years... and its home.. a happy place full of memories...

As we get ready for the New Season ahead (shhh... many surprises in store!) I find it amazing the history in the walls around me, not only my own but of many many other theatre companies, producers, dreamers, workers,..... So many stories, so many lives intertwined without ever knowing it.

Anyway, welcome to our blog, welcome to our musings, our writings, our trial and tribulations..
May you have fun with us on this exciting journey....

Akia
Founding Artistic Director
Rising Sun Performance Company