ABOUT AfroSolo Theatre Company https://afrosolo.org AfroSolo Theatre Company’s mission is to nurture, promote and present African American and African Diasporan art and culture through solo performances and the visual and literary arts. Since 1994, we have presented the annual AfroSolo Arts Festival, a forum for African Americans and the larger African Diaspora as a way to give voice to the unique experience of being Black. Through art, we bring people of all ethnicities together to explore and share the human spirit that binds us all. AfroSolo Arts Festival is made possible through the support of the CA Arts Council, Grants for the Arts, Dream Keeper Initiative, Kenneth Rainin Foundation, SF Arts Commission, and The Friends of AfroSolo, AfroSolo's collaborative partners include AATAIN, Cultural Odyssey, Intersection for the Arts, Play Ground Theatre, The African American Art and Culture Complex, The Flow Fund, The Dr. George W. Davis Senior Center and the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival. AFROSOLO’S HISTORY AND MISSION: https://afrosolo.org/march2025 AfroSolo Theatre Company presents… AfroSolo ARTS FESTIVAL 31 - LET FREEDOM RING! PART 2 WHEN:

• Fri. March 28, 2025 – 7:00 pm
• Sat. March 29, 2025 – 7:00 pm
• Sun. March 30, 2025 – 3:00 pm

WHERE: Potrero Stage* 1695 18th St. (at Arkansas St.), San Francisco, CA 94107 WHO: Performers Include:

• Douglass Haynes - vocalist
• Augustene Phillips - writer
• Libah Sheppard - writer
• Thomas Robert Simpson - writer
• Hugh Leeman – filmmaker
• Dr. Carl Blake (piano for Douglass Haynes)

TICKETS: https://tickets.playground-sf.org/The... General Admission Seating. $0 - $35, pay what you can. No one turned away due to lack of funds. In Person & Live Streaming options available. WEB SITE: https://afrosolo.org FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... INSTAGRAM:   / afrosolotheatrecompany   FOR INFORMATION VISIT: https://afrosolo.org or call 415-771-2376 _____________________ Thomas Robert Simpson, actor, director, producer, and writer, is the founder and artistic director of AfroSolo Arts Festival. Since 1991 he has concentrated on presenting African American and African Diasporan art and culture through solo performances and the visual and literary arts. For the past 17 years Mr. Simpson has produced the award-winning and critically acclaimed AfroSolo Arts Festival in SF, presenting over seventy-five artists. He has also showcased celebrity artists such as award-winning actor Ruby Dee, comedian and political activist Dick Gregory, beloved teacher, poet and social activist June Jordan, sensational black gospel singer Emmit Powell, and many others. In 2006 Mr. Simpson won a coveted Bay Area Jefferson Award for Public Service. In 2009 he was awarded a prestigious Certificate of Honor from the SF Board of Supervisor, as well as award from SF AIDS Foundation’s Black Brothers Esteem Program, The Reggie Williams Achievement Award and the Oakland Supper Club for his contributions to our community.

Hey there! Welcome back to Green Room On Air with your host, Ray Vernotti. It's been a crazy time, folks! I caught COVID again, got over it, but the insomnia was a kicker. Anyway, I'm here and thrilled to have the amazing Abigail Munn back on the show! 🎪

Today, we're diving into the world of Circus Bella with Abigail, the visionary director and ringmaster. This isn't just any circus, folks! "Kaleidoscope" is coming up and it's going to be a winter big-top spectacle. You're in for clowns, a mind-blowing slack rope act, breathtaking aerialists, and the heart-pounding beats of Circus Bella's live band.

We take a backstage tour and meet some of the extraordinary performers crafting magic under the tent. Plus, I've got a little plug for the show I'm in called "Truce," at City Lights Theater in San Jose. It's a moving tale from World War I that's capturing hearts.

So, join us for a fun-filled episode as we chat, laugh, and explore the amazing world of circus wonder! Oh, and don’t forget to snag your tickets to "Kaleidoscope" at circusbella.org. 🎟️

From the New York Times: "Sondheim was a titan of musical theater. But four recent shows onstage in New York argue for his place among classical music luminaries, too." Today we take a look at the genius of Stephen Sondheim and how he fits into the world of classical American music. But first I give you two huge thumbs up for a TV show I recently discovered.

Contact Ray at Green Room on Air: greenroomonair@gmail.com

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) Visit Green Room On Air website: http://greenroomonair.com Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raysgreenroom/

Today we discuss Ray's addiction to chocolate-covered berries, our current pandemic, and most importantly, we have a special interview with the UK based musician, Michael Grant.

 

Michael Grant's Web Site: https://www.michaelgrantmusician.com/

Michael A. Grant is a freelance musician, proficient on clarinets, bassoon, saxophones and flute. He is currently based in Manchester but available for work throughout the universe. Michael is an experienced performer in a variety of genres, including orchestral music, big band swing, and traditional jazz. He is also in high demand as a reed player for musical theatre productions, on account of his strong sight-reading ability and expertise across multiple instruments. Furthermore, he is a very capable arranger and orchestrator, as well as a keen composer.

Michael Grant's new Musical: https://www.michaelgrantmusician.com/inrta/

It’s Not Really the Apocalypse’ tells the story of four friends, who wake one day after the mother of all hangovers to discover they are the only humans left on the planet. Over the course of 14 songs they must adapt to their new lifestyle, whilst also overcoming a much greater challenge: learning to live with each other.

This dark subject matter is juxtaposed with a catchy, ragtime-influenced score that is sure to have you tapping your feet and singing along. Armageddon never sounded so good.

If Only Your Legs Were on Your Head: https://youtu.be/jM5zlL17TSw

The Jelly Roll Jazz Band: http://www.thejellyrolljazzband.co.uk/

------------------------------------------

Green Room On Air Web Site: http://greenroomonair.com or http://raysgreenroom.com

Opening and Closing Music by Carly Ozard: http://carlyozard.com

 

 

 

Today's guest is Sara Moore

Sara Moore is an award-winning American clown. 

Her new show is called "The Supers"

Moore has created, directed, and performed material for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, The Krofft Puppets, Royal Caribbean International, Tropicana Hotels and Resorts, The New Pickle Circus, Six Flags Show Productions, and Merv Griffin’s Resorts Casino and Hotels, among others. She also wrote, directed, and co-produced the independent feature film “Homo Heights” starring Quentin Crisp, which is widely considered a cult classic today. Her recent solo show, Show Ho, has earned critical and popular acclaim through several sold-out runs.

____

Tickets for "The Supers": http://www.zspace.org/supers

THE SUPERS - A Science-Fiction Magical Realism Human Cartoon Opera - written by & starring Sara Moore will be performed Feb. 19 - 29, 2020- Limited Engagement – 10 Performances Only!

_____

Music by Carly Ozard: carlyozard.com

Green Room on Air Web Site: raysgreenroom.com

Please take a little time and rate my podcast on Itunes - http://bit.ly/GreenRoomOnAir

 

As we close the show Circle Mirror Transformation at Livermore Arts, I reflect on the play and my experiences with it with it.

 

Music by Carly Ozard: https://carlyozard.com

Green Room on Air Web Site: http://raysgreenroom.com

Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker Directed by Misty Megia

Livermore Arts

Tickets: https://lvpac.org/

Synopsis:

When four lost New Englanders enroll in Marty’s six-week-long community center drama class and begin to experiment with harmless games, hearts are quietly torn apart and tiny wars of epic proportions are waged and won. Circle Mirror Transformation is a charming and beautifully-crafted diorama, a petri dish in which we see, with hilarious detail and clarity, the antic sadness of a motley quintet.

Taught by Marty, their free-spirited and supportive leader, the group — Schultz, a recently divorced, emotionally vulnerable carpenter, Teresa, an earnest and vibrant former actress, James, Marty’s quiet and genial husband, and Lauren, a reserved and self-conscious high schooler — move through a series of acting exercises, ranging from the heartbreaking to the ridiculous. Over the course of the seemingly trivial games, their emotional wounds are revealed, nursed, and healing slowly begins. Winner of the 2010 Obie Award for Best New American Play, Annie Baker’s quiet masterpiece explores the human condition and the subtle yet powerfully transforming effect we have on others through our words and indirect actions.

Directed by Misty Megia, Circle Mirror Transformation will run for eight performances at the Bothwell Arts Center from November 15-24, 2019. The East End of the Bothwell Arts Center provides the perfect setting for the play which is set in a similar community center in Vermont. Megia directed last year’s acclaimed production of RED by John Logan at the Bankhead Theater, the first play self-produced by Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center. Read an interview with Misty Megia here.

“Annie Baker’s play is an absolute feast… the kind of unheralded gem that sends people into the streets babbling and bright-eyed with the desire to spread the word…”—New York Times

__________________

Green Room on Air Web Site

Carly Ozard provides the music for this episode

 

 

The Two Show Day. CAST Rebecca Davis (Theresa) recently appeared as Christine Daaé in the Ohlone College/Stage 1 Theatre production of “Phantom of the Opera.” Other favorite credits include Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady” at Contra Costa Civic Theatre, Laurey Williams in “Oklahoma!” at Altarena Playhouse, and Abigail Adams in “1776” for Tri-Valley Valley Theatre. Rebecca spends her free time hiking, playing video games, and eating all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue. John Girot* (Shultz) make his debut with LVPAC in Circle Mirror Transformation. Recent credits include A Few Good Men (Hillbarn Theatre), Fifth of July (Aurora Theatre Company), Arcadia (Jewel Theatre Company). He has worked locally with Central Works, EXIT Theatre, Berkeley Theater Project, and PlayGround. John is a proud Bay Area native and member of Actors’ Equity Association. He lives in Oakland with his wife and two daughters. Emma Nelson (Lauren) is so pumped to be part of the cast and crew of Circle Mirror Transformation. She loves to act, and has been doing it since she was about eight, thanks to her encouraging parents. So far, she has been in shows in and outside of Dublin High School, and one student film. She loves strawberries, rollerblading, and the color yellow. As a senior, she is remembering to take time for these little things in life while preparing for the next steps in pursuing a career in film. Ray Renati* (James) has performed in major Bay Area and London theaters, as well as in several independent films and TV programs. Favorite stage roles include Henry Higgins in Pygmalion, Arthur in Superior Donuts and Neil in The Quality of Life, Burton in Burn This, Lee in True West, and Antonio in The Merchant of Venice. Ray studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London where he earned a certificate in Acting Shakespeare. Ray is a co-founder of the Pear Theatre in Mountain View and a proud member of Actors’ Equity. His theatre podcast is Green Room on Air (raysgreenroom.com). Rhonda Taylor (Marty) recently appeared as Jacqueline in “Don’t Dress for Dinner” and Morticia in “The Addams Family Musical” both with Chanticleers Theater. Rhonda, a long time Pleasanton resident, has been active in community theater for over 20 years. Some of her favorite credits include Louise in “Always Patsy Cline,” Gloria in “Boeing, Boeing,” Evy in “The Gingerbread Lady.” Rhonda is a lead singer for The Pushbacks, a local classic-rock cover band and has her own jewelry design business called Under a Gypsy Moon.

Opening night of Circle Mirror Transformation at Livermore arts. https://lvpac.org/event/circle-mirror-transformation/2019-11-15/ CAST Rebecca Davis (Theresa) recently appeared as Christine Daaé in the Ohlone College/Stage 1 Theatre production of “Phantom of the Opera.” Other favorite credits include Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady” at Contra Costa Civic Theatre, Laurey Williams in “Oklahoma!” at Altarena Playhouse, and Abigail Adams in “1776” for Tri-Valley Valley Theatre. Rebecca spends her free time hiking, playing video games, and eating all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue. John Girot* (Shultz) make his debut with LVPAC in Circle Mirror Transformation. Recent credits include A Few Good Men (Hillbarn Theatre), Fifth of July (Aurora Theatre Company), Arcadia (Jewel Theatre Company). He has worked locally with Central Works, EXIT Theatre, Berkeley Theater Project, and PlayGround. John is a proud Bay Area native and member of Actors’ Equity Association. He lives in Oakland with his wife and two daughters. Emma Nelson (Lauren) is so pumped to be part of the cast and crew of Circle Mirror Transformation. She loves to act, and has been doing it since she was about eight, thanks to her encouraging parents. So far, she has been in shows in and outside of Dublin High School, and one student film. She loves strawberries, rollerblading, and the color yellow. As a senior, she is remembering to take time for these little things in life while preparing for the next steps in pursuing a career in film. Ray Renati* (James) has performed in major Bay Area and London theaters, as well as in several independent films and TV programs. Favorite stage roles include Henry Higgins in Pygmalion, Arthur in Superior Donuts and Neil in The Quality of Life, Burton in Burn This, Lee in True West, and Antonio in The Merchant of Venice. Ray studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London where he earned a certificate in Acting Shakespeare. Ray is a co-founder of the Pear Theatre in Mountain View and a proud member of Actors’ Equity. His theatre podcast is Green Room on Air (raysgreenroom.com). Rhonda Taylor (Marty) recently appeared as Jacqueline in “Don’t Dress for Dinner” and Morticia in “The Addams Family Musical” both with Chanticleers Theater. Rhonda, a long time Pleasanton resident, has been active in community theater for over 20 years. Some of her favorite credits include Louise in “Always Patsy Cline,” Gloria in “Boeing, Boeing,” Evy in “The Gingerbread Lady.” Rhonda is a lead singer for The Pushbacks, a local classic-rock cover band and has her own jewelry design business called Under a Gypsy Moon.

The rehearsal process. Insomnia and Stage Fright.

Dress rehearsal with the set.

The first dress rehearsal for Circle Mirror Transformation at Livermore Arts

RaysgreenRoom.com CarlyOzard.com

Step into the captivating world of radio as we sit down with the legendary radio personality, Alex Bennett. From his early days on the airwaves to becoming a trailblazer in the industry, Alex has a wealth of stories and insights to share. Join us in this exclusive podcast interview as we delve into the highs, the lows, and the untold tales of a radio icon. Get ready for a journey through the waves of entertainment with the one and only, Alex Bennett!

Contact Ray at Green Room on Air: greenroomonair@gmail.com

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) Visit Green Room On Air website: http://greenroomonair.com Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raysgreenroom/

Closing Music by Carly Ozard

Rehearsing CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION with Livermore Arts. Livermore Arts: https://lvpac.org/ Rayrenati.com RaysGreenRoom.com Music: CarlyOzard.com

Driving home from rehearsal of “Circle Mirror Transformation” in Livermore, CA.

Theatre of Yugen Web Site

http://www.theatreofyugen.org/

Puppets & Poe

Directed by Shannon R. Davis

Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, devised by Theatre of Yugen, enacted with post-consumer material puppets.

BE VERY AFRAID October 3 - November 2, 2019 Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 8 PM $15 STUDENTS, $35 GENERAL ADMISSION, $45 VIP (INCLUDES FREE DRINKS)

Preview on October 3: Use Code “PREVIEW” at checkout for $20 Tickets

Featuring: Ella Cooley, Alan Coyne, Shannon R. Davis, Steven Flores, Nick Ishimaru, and Jamin Jollo

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

or Go to

http://www.theatreofyugen.org/poe

 

  ___________________________ NICK ISHIMARU - ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Nick Ishimaru was trained originally as a musical theatre performer and started exploring Japanese theatre while studying at Colorado State University (BA, 2005), where he directed a kabuki adaptation of MacBeth. He went on to study at San Francisco State University, (MA, 2009). His work explores a combination of Western and traditional Asian performance techniques for original creations, along with work in conventional musical theatre and Shakespeare.

In October 2016, he opened his debut as Theatre of Yugen’s Artistic Director, The Red Demon by Noda Hideki.  Previous directing work includes It Ain’t Me by Claire Rice (original), Land of Infants by Meghan O’Patry (original), and Kaguya (original adaptation).  Other recent production work includes A Minor Cycle by Greg Giovanni (original; actor and fight choreographer), This Lingering Life by Chiori Miyagawa (original; actor), and several traditional kyogen plays with the Theatre of Yugen (actor).

SHANNON DAVIS - ARTISTIC ASSOCIATE

Descendant of the Potawatomi, Ojibwe, and Saami people, Shannon R. Davis (Bay area director, actor, and educator) is 2018 Phil Killian Directing Fellow at Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Credits: Othello (associate director, American Repertory Theatre); Othello & Manahatta (assistant director, Oregon Shakespeare Festival); Adulting for Beginners (Musical Café/Ashby Stage); Religomania (Exit Theatre/San Francisco Fringe Festival); Monsters & Wild Things (Brava Theater Center).

 

____________________

Music by Carly Ozard - CarlyOzard.com

Find all my podcasts at RaysGreenRoom.com

 

 

Neva and Cristina have been seen on stage in London, the UK, New York, and Los Angeles. Neva has performed in over 60 stage productions and has worked with Francis Ford Coppola, Will Smith, Jon Voight and others. Cristina has worked at many of the professional companies in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angles  including Theatreworks, Capital Stage, Pacific Rep. and the Grove Theatre (L.A.). Ray has teamed up with these two powerhouses to put together a production of "Love Letters" by A.R. Gurney.

Love Letters will be showing at the Dragon Theatre in Redwood City for two performances only: Sunday September 14th and 15th at 7 pm.

Tickets for LOVE LETTERS: http://bit.ly/lovelettersplay

or

Head to BrownPaperTickets.com and search for "Love Letters"

Web Site for Green Room on Air: RaysGreenRoom.com

 

Cate Hayman, a Bay Area Local, is making her SF Playhouse debut as Sally Bowles! She is a rising senior musical theatre major at Carnegie Mellon University. 

SF Playhouse Web Site

Green Room on Air Web Site

Carly Ozard

________

greenroomonair@gmail.com

 

Ready to interview the fabulous Cate Hayman (Sally Bowles) at SF Playhouse, I forgot to turn on the recorder and we talked but nothing was saved. This is a mistake I will never make again!

Cabaret at SF Playhouse is a must see musical. 

Get your tickets here.

__________

Green Room On Air

Opening and Closing music by

Carly Ozard

 

Ray talks about his second time seeing Hamilton, more on Cabaret at SF Playhouse, living life as a cabby, and the Toure de France. www.raysgreenroom.com

More thoughts on the musical Cabaret. The British parody film: Hot Fuzz on Netflix

If you happen to be in San Francisco or even if you have to make a special trip, a must see show that’s happening right now is the fantastic musical Cabaret playing at the San Francisco Playhouse. Do yourself a favor and go see this show! https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/

Recently I spoke with Ellen Callas and Daniel Savio of the Tony Award winning SAN FRANCISCO MIME TROUPE.

The company opened a new musical today entitled "Treasure Island". 

"Treasure Island" - is it the mythical isle where untold wealth awaits marauding pirates, or the freezing cold, artificial island in the middle of San Francisco Bay awaiting cut-throat developers? Or is it both? That's the question for Jill Hawkins when an old sea-dog of a developer drops anchor in her office at City Hall, and drops a mystery in her lap. "Developers...they scour the map looking for cities with fat purses, ready to be plundered, damn the regulations!" But if Treasure Island is such a wonderful opportunity why has no one developed it yet...? What about the people who live there now? And who is the one-legged developer Hawkins was warned about?

____________________________

About the Mime Troupe

The San Francisco Mime Troupe creates and produces socially relevant theater of the highest professional quality and performs it before the broadest possible audience.

They do plays that make sense out of the headlines by identifying the forces that shape our lives and dramatizing the operation of these giant forces in small, close-up stories that make our audiences feel the impact of political events on personal life.

To make this work accessible the Mime Troupe performs its shows in local parks at a price everyone can afford: FREE.

The San Francisco Mime Troupe does not do silent pantomime. We mean 'mime' in the ancient sense: to mimic. We talk, we sing, we make a lot of noise. We are satirists, seeking to make you laugh at the absurdities of contemporary life and at the same time, see their causes. We've done shows about most of the burning issues of our time, generally shows that debunked the official story. We perform everywhere from public parks to palaces of culture, aiming to reach the broadest possible audience.

SF Mime Troupe Web Site: Mime Troupe

____________________________

Green Room Radio Web Site: Green Room On Air

Ray Renati on the Web

Facebook: Ray on Stage

Twitter: @rayrenati

_____________________

Opening Music by Carly Ozard

 

🎤 Get ready to jam to the beat of the viral sensation! 🎶 Join us on Green Room on Air for an exclusive interview with the real talents behind the hilarious mockumentary 'Chickens in the Shadows'—Estelle Piper and Tom Shaw, aka Toasters and Moose! 🍞🦌 🌟 The spotlight is on the dynamic duo as they spill the beans on the unexpected success of their on-screen hit, "Taste the Biscuit." From the quirky scenes in 'Chickens in the Shadows' to the moment the song took the internet by storm, this episode is your backstage pass to the making of a viral sensation. 🎬 Director Vincent Gargiulo brought the magic to life, and now Estelle and Tom share the behind-the-scenes stories, the laughter, and the unexpected journey from the shadows to the limelight. Discover the secrets behind the infectious lyrics, the catchy tune, and the dance moves that have fans across the globe chanting, "Taste the Biscuit!" 🕵️‍♂️ Did you know the real names behind the characters Toasters and Moose? Learn more about Estelle Piper and Tom Shaw as they reflect on the whirlwind of fame, the joys of creating music for the screen, and the moments that defined the 'Chickens in the Shadows' experience. 👉 Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to dive into the world of viral sensations with the stars of the show. Subscribe, hit the like button, and join us on Green Room on Air for a behind-the-scenes journey into the making and aftermath of "Taste the Biscuit." #GreenRoomOnAir #ChickensInTheShadows #TasteTheBiscuit #ViralHit #EstellePiper #TomShaw #BehindTheScenesInterview

• Contact Ray at Green Room on Air: greenroomonair@gmail.com
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) Visit Green Room On Air website: http://greenroomonair.com Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raysgreenroom/

NEW YORK CITY’S SEXIEST BENEFIT STRIP SHOW, "BROADWAY BARES" HAS COME TO SAN FRANCISCO AND WILL FEATURE MANY OF THE BAY AREA’S HOTTEST DANCER/STRIPPERS. SUNDAY, JUNE 16, 2019   DNA LOUNGE

Doors open at 7:00pm, show at 8pm

375 Eleventh Street, San Francisco (near Harrison) Proceeds benefit  Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and REAF.     

Performance Director: Damien Beard​

Production Director: Emily Schreck

Artistic Director: Leanne Borghesi

Executive Producers: Ken Henderson & Joe Seiler

Tickets: http://bit.ly/broadwaybaressf19

DNA Lounge: http://bit.ly/dnalounge ________________________________________ ABOUT BRUCE VILANCH Bruce Vilanch

Comedy writer

 

One of the most sought-after jokesmiths in the entertainment industry, Bruce Vilanch has become a recognizable face in his own right, thanks to the feature-length documentary "Get Bruce!" (1999) and his stint as a regular on "Hollywood Squares" (1998- ), for which he also serves as head writer. Known for his eclectic eyewear and collection of unique T-shirts, he began as a child model for Lane Bryant, but when his initial efforts as an actor came to naught, he became an entertainment writer for the Chicago Tribune instead. Impressed by his review of her cabaret performance in 1970, Bette Midler hired him to punch up her act, and he later moved to Los Angeles where he wrote for variety shows like the original "Donny and Marie" and "The Brady Bunch Hour" (both ABC) and provided material for Richard Pryor, Lily Tomlin and Joan Rivers. He has maintained his connection with Midler through the years, working on such projects as the feature "Divine Madness" (1980) and the TV special "Bette Midler--Diva Las Vegas" (HBO, 1997), as well as writing for her sitcom "Bette!" (CBS, 2000- ). Vilanch began contributing to Academy Awards telecasts in 1989, collaborating with the likes of Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg and David Letterman, and graduated to head writer in 2000. The Whoopi connection led to his providing the notorious material Ted Danson performed in blackface at a certain 1993 Friars Club roast of his then-girlfriend Goldberg, but his resume also includes "You Made Me Watch You", the touching Emmy-winning valedictory Midler crooned as a send-off to Johnny Carson. He made his feature debut as a dress manufacturer in "Mahogany' (1975), starring Diana Ross (to whose act he also contributed), and put his Muppet-like persona to excellent use as Santa's number one helper in the syndicated TV-movie "It Nearly Wasn't Christmas" (1989). On the heels of "Get Bruce!", Vilanch performed his comedy stylings Off-Broadway in "Bruce Vilanch: Almost Famous" (2000).

 

We all have a lot to be grateful for despite whatever hardships we may encounter. I also talk about staged readings, and the TV shows True Detective season three, and Barry, both on HBO.

Music - CarlyOzard.com

Rayrenati.com

Raysgreenroom.com

Today’s special guest Maureen McVerry has been a fixture of entertainment here in the San Francisco Bay Area for well over 3 decades. She is the winner of 7 SF Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle Awards (SFBATCC) and 2 Dramalogue Awards. McVerry’s film credits include Nine Months, The Dead Pool, Big Business, True Believer, Howard the Duck ,The Ox and the Eye and Crackers. On TV, Full House and Divorce Court. In 1993 Maureen McVerry created VERRY McVERRY her ever evolving Cabaret Show and has performed it for 25 years. In SF she has performed at OASIS, Feinstein’s, the New Conservatory Theatre, the Herbst theatre, the Plush Room, the Venetian Room, the Gateway Theatre and the Alcazar. VERRY MCVERRY has also been performed at 88s in NYC and the Gardenia Room in LA and at other venues nationally. (2012 nominated for Best Solo Show SFBATCC).

The next performance of VERRY McMVERRY is happening on May 18 2019, that’s NEXT Saturday at The Oasis in San Francisco. 7 pm. You can get your tickets at SFOasis.com Go see her folks! She is a real pro. She’s absolutely hilarious and her acting chops are up their with the best of them. She can make you laugh, cry and jump to your feet in joy. I’ve seen her perform many times and it’s always special. https://sfoasis.com/

rayrenati.com raysgreenroom.com carlyozard.com - Music

"Mamma Mia!" - One of the first smash hit Juke-Box musicals.

Green Room On Air Web Site

How do actors learn all those lines?!!

Is Ray wearing briefs or boxers?

raysgreenroom.com

Music: carlyozard.com

Mamma Mia! at City College of San Francisco - rehearsal report. Conan without Borders on Netflix.

Mamma Mia! at City College of San Francisco

My thoughts about the Best Picture Award at the Oscars

Here's all the information you need about Anne Yumi Kobori's play:

WHAT: Utopia Theatre Project Presents... "Every Day Alice"

Written by Anne Yumi Kobori Directed by Maryssa Wanlass

WHEN: February 15 to March 9, 2019

Fridays and Saturdays @ 7pm (and Thursday, February 21)

WHERE: PianoFight, 144 Taylor St., San Francisco, CA 94102

TICKETS: $12 - $35

$20 Advance/$25 at the door

Students and Seniors (over 60): $12

VIP (Reserved seat): $35

Tickets: Purchase at EventBrite

INFO: www.utopiatheatreproject.com

 

Green Room On Air: raysgreenroom.com

Music by Carly Ozard

Ray talks about his stupendous experience seeing the hit Broadway musical - "Come from Away".

Green Room on Air

Contact Ray at feedback@rayrenati.com

Today's guest is Sara Moore

Sara Moore is an award-winning American clown. 

Her new show is called "The Supers"

Moore has created, directed, and performed material for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, The Krofft Puppets, Royal Caribbean International, Tropicana Hotels and Resorts, The New Pickle Circus, Six Flags Show Productions, and Merv Griffin’s Resorts Casino and Hotels, among others. She also wrote, directed, and co-produced the independent feature film “Homo Heights” starring Quentin Crisp, which is widely considered a cult classic today. Her recent solo show, Show Ho, has earned critical and popular acclaim through several sold-out runs.

____________________________________________________________________

Music by Carly Ozard: carlyozard.com

Green Room on Air Web Site: raysgreenroom.com

Please take a little time and rate my podcast on Itunes - http://bit.ly/GreenRoomOnAir

 

Friday Night Fun. Playbill.com Broadway Quiz

raysgreenroom.com

My day of auditions. raysgreenroom.com Instagram: @rayrenati carlyozard.com

The 2019 SAG Awards

Bohemian Rhapsody and the Witch Hunt Continues

Green Room Radio

How to find discount tickets for Broadway, off-Broadway, and touring shows.

Timeout New York - Discount Tickets

 

It's Oscar Time!

feedback@rayrenati.com

Green Room Radio

Music by Carly Ozard

Happy Martin Luther King Day!

My experience in directing "The Mountaintop" by Katori Hall Starring Nathalie Autumn Bennett and Michael Wayne Rice

Greem Radio Web site

feedback@rayrenati.com

Music by Carly Ozard

Today I received more SAG Awards Screener DVDs in the mail - House of Cards, GLOW, and Maniac! Check it out, DOGS!

Green Room Radio

Music by Carly Ozard

The Handmaid‘s Tale, Ozark, the Kominsky method. James Franco is getting hitched. Nancy Pelosi had her airplane taken away from her sandbox.

I have my SAG Movies!

My guest today is Aidan Park. Aidan is a nationally recognized stand-up comedian headliner, working actor, published author, certified life coach, public speaker, certified master level practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and creator of the wellness brand, The Art of Being Yay! Aidan is known for having survived seemingly insurmountable challenges in his personal life. Yet, through it all, he reached notable success. He overcame being an undocumented immigrant living in poverty, an HIV diagnosis when he was a teen, a widow later in life, and mental health issues. 

In his new book, The Art of Being Yay!, comedian and happiness expert Aidan Park provides tools for authentic joy and empowerment sharing scandalous juicy stories from his past that "out drama" a Lifetime TV movie with tales of infidelity, death, scandal, heartache, love, friendships and betrayals!

 

In The Art of Being Yay! discover:

-The science of happiness and how to use them to your advantage -How to manage destructive negative emotions -How to create new thought patterns for lasting mental and behavioral change -Practical tools for empowering yourself for the life that you want -How an undocumented immigrant in poverty that was once a Craigslist "erotic services provider" became a happiness expert people pay lots of money to get advice from!

https://www.aidanpark.com/

Amazon link - https://amzn.to/38z1jRF

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Neva Hutchinson has acted in New York, Maine and the Bay Area in over 60 theater productions. She's worked with Francis Ford Coppola, Lee Sankowich, Kevin Malony and Libby Appel. In film, she's worked with Jon Voight and Will Smith. She's trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and with Richard Seyd and Wynn Handman. She recently appeared at the Phoenix Theater in San Francisco in "By The Waters of Babylon" by Robert Schenkkan. Presently, she's appeared in the lead role in "Raptured: the Disappearance and Discovery of Aimee Semple McPherson". Also, she can currently be seen as a dry cleaner in a Buster Posey Toyota commercial.

Neva's Web Site: NevaHutchinson.com   Ray's Web Site: RayRenati.com   Green Room Radio: raysgreenroom.com ----more----Music by Carly Ozard   CarlyOzard.com

First, a little about the exquisite The Lorraine Hansberry Theatre and my recent experience in participating in a staged reading festival there two weeks ago.

Our Guest

Jamie Coventry (Clown, Juggler, Co-Producer, Co-Director): Jamie was raised in central CA by a family of eccentrics. He studied theatre arts in Santa Fe, music in San Luis Obispo and education and circus arts in SF. Jamie has worked with Flynn Creek Circus, Circus of Sound, New Pickle Circus, The Pickle Circus School Tour, Teatro Zinzanni, Sweet Can and more. He is perhaps best known for his work with partner Natasha Kaluza. Coventry & Kaluza won Best Comedy/Clown Act in the American Circus Festival two years in a row, and Best Duo in the Picklewater Free Circus Festival. Jamie is also the co-creator of the neo- vaudevillian harmonica trio, Tin Sandwich and a dedicated member of the Bay Area Harmonica Club. www.coventryandkaluza.com

 

 

 

 

 

This week I spoke with the multi-talented writer and actor Neva Hutchinson about her new play (which I directed), "Raptured: The Disappearance and Discovery of Aimee Semple McPherson", playing through November 3rd, 2018.

Raptured: The Disappearance and Discovery of Aimee Semple McPherson

Location: The Phoenix Theatre

Tickets: Brown Paper Tickets

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3603593

Neva's Web Site

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Podcast Web Site: raysgreenroom.com

Email: feedback@rayrenati.com