Totem Pole Playhouse continues to build its artistic momentum in its 60th Anniversary Season as it presents Neil Simon's hilarious 45 Seconds From Broadway, starring a stellar ensemble of some of the most accomplished actors ever to grace its stage. Totem Pole veterans Wil Love, Tess Hartman, Catherine Blaine, Ed Gotwalt (Mister Ed) and newcomers Paul Floriano and John Dow lead a cast of twelve that ignite comedic fireworks in this smart, fast-paced valentine to Broadway.
John Putch, son of former Playhouse Producing Artistic Director, William Putch and Actress Jean Stapleton, returns to Caledonia to direct for the first time at Totem Pole. John has had a respectable television and film-acting career but now enjoys directing. Notable films include the cult indie favorites: VALERIE FLAKE, BACHELORMAN, MOJAVE PHONE BOOTH and ROUTE 30. TV directing includes: "Scrubs," "Cougar Town," "My Name Is Earl," "Ugly Betty," "Grounded For Life," "Son Of The Beach" and multiple television movies and mini-series. John has been referred to as a ‘genuine and positive force for the creation of meaningful media.' John Putch last appeared at Totem Pole Playhouse in 1984.
In assembling the actors and director for the 2nd offering of the 2010 Season, Playhouse Artistic Director, Ray Ficca, certainly gave particular attention to each and every role. "This play demands impeccable comic timing and a director who is able to guide the ensemble towards that, while still telling a very touching story about life just beyond the Great White Way. We've hit a home run with this group of artists and it is an honor to have John back at Totem Pole," say Ficca.
45 Seconds from Broadway is the 33rd play written by America's master of comedy, Neil Simon. It premiered at the Richards Rogers Theatre in November 2001. The title refers to the amount of time it takes to walk to Broadway from the play's setting, a coffee shop inspired by the one located off the lobby of midtown-Manhattan's tourist-class Edison Hotel, a long-time watering hole for struggling actors, aspiring writers, standup comics, and suburban matinee ladies. 45 Seconds from Broadway is sponsored by Walker, Connor & Spang, LLC and Orrstown Bank.
James Fouchard, Resident Scenic Designer, returns to The Playhouse for his 29th season. His true to life set is actually based on the Polish Tea Room (coffee shop) of the Edison Hotel. Mr. Fouchard met with Ray Ficca for several morning coffees in the Edison while Mr. Ficca was hosting Equity auditions in Manhattan. James designed the set for the 60th anniversary season opener, Sisters of Swing. Michael D. Domue, Resident Lighting Designer designs the lights while Catherine Lovejoy serves as Costume Designer. Heather Sorensen is Sound Designer.
The post-show discussion, an informal chat with the cast & crew will be Thursday, June 17.
45 Seconds from Broadway by Neil Simon directed by John Putch, June 15 - 27, sponsored by Walker, Connor & Spang, LLC and Orrstown Bank.
The Complete History of America (abridged) by Adam Long, ReEd Martin and Austin Tichenor, June 29 - July 11, sponsored by Franklin County Visitors Bureau.
The Coward and the Glory by Keith Bridges, July 13 - 25, sponsored by F & M Trust.
Unnecessary Farce by Paul Slade Smith, July 27 - August 8, sponsored by The Orchards.
Ruthless! The Musical. Book & Lyrics by Joel Paley. Music by Marvin Laird. August 10 -22, sponsored by Patriot Federal Credit Union.
For more information on performance times and any event at the Totem Pole Playhouse, call 888-805-7056 or visit www.TotemPolePlayhouse.org.
