Archive for category: News

You are here: / News

THE ADDAMS FAMILY – A Review

The Depot Theatre’s production of THE ADDAMS FAMILY: A NEW MUSICAL is on stage through August 28, 2022.


The Addams Family brand just won’t die. But of course.

Born in 1938 as a series of one-panel cartoons, this ghoulish family has lived through the generations as cartoon, TV show, film, video game, dance move, and musical comedy.

Broadway critics tried to drive a stake through the family’s heart a dozen years ago when the original Addams Family musical was introduced, with reviews filled with what cast members called “absolute cruelty and vitriol.” Gomez and Morticia would have approved.

But critics and paying customers didn’t, and the production was hastily retooled, after which it rose from the dead and became a nationwide hit. Read more

Depot Theatre Announces Monstrous Cast of THE ADDAMS FAMILY

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

The Depot Theatre is pleased to announce the cast of its production of THE ADDAMS FAMILY: A NEW MUSICAL, with performances from August 11-28, 2022.

The extraordinary cast of 15 actors/dancers/singers is comprised of professional Actors’ Equity Association members, regional standouts, and Depot Theatre Academy participants.

“As an Actors’ Equity Association-affiliated theatre, we always engage some non-Equity members along with Equity professionals for our productions,” said Kenney Green, the show’s director/choreographer and Depot Producing Artistic Director. “But this show is a much larger scale than usual, and only possible because we have engaged the triple-threat talents of our community members and Academy standouts.”

The show is based upon The Addams Family characters created by Charles Addams in his single-panel gag cartoons, which depict a ghoulish American family with an affinity for all things macabre.

The plot features the Addams Family’s dark, macabre, beloved daughter Wednesday, now an eighteen-year-old young woman, who has fallen in love with a sweet, smart boy from a “normal” family. To make matters worse, she has invited his parents to the Addams’ home for dinner. The result is a “comical feast set to music!”

MEET THE CAST

Megan Koumis (Morticia) returns to the Depot after performing in THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND in 2019. Megan made her off-Broadway debut at The Public Theatre in MADE IN AMERICA. She has been seen regionally in EVITA, JEKYLL AND HYDE, JOSEPH…DREAMCOAT, and AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS. Megan can also be seen in the national commercial for Keepsake Frames.

Michael Indeglio (Gomez) has performed on 6 of the 7 continents with tours including TITANIC, MAME, and FOREVER PLAID; select regional productions include THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND (Depot), TICK TICK…BOOM, THE LAST FIVE YEARS, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, and THE FULL MONTY.

Lauren Gunn (Wednesday) returns to the Depot after this season’s PUTTING IT TOGETHER. Gunn’s favorite credits include ASSASSINS (Squeaky), INTO THE WOODS, (Cinderella), HAY FEVER (Jackie), MEASURE FOR MEASURE (Pompey), and THE TAMING OF THE SHREW (Bianca). She has composed comedy songs for her series, “Eh, OK”, and written pieces for the NYC sketch collective, Boogiemanja.

Gina Lindsey (Grandma Addams) teaches communication in Plattsburgh at both Clinton Community College and Plattsburgh State University. She has been performing in local theatre since 2003. Favorite roles include Enid in LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL (CCC, 2014), Mae Peterson in BYE, BYE BIRDIE (CMT, 2015), Lucy the Slut in AVENUE Q (CCC, 2016), Eleanor in the original musical, THE ART OF LIVING (CCC, 2016, and The Strand, 2017), Sister Mary Regina in NUNSENSE II: THE SECOND COMING (ART and ETC, 2018), Elizabeth Proctor in THE CRUCIBLE (ART 2019), Mrs. White in CLUE ON STAGE (CCC, 2019), and Beatrice in THE EFFECT OF GAMMA RAYS ON THE MAN-IN-THE-MOON MARIGOLDS (ETC, 2021).

Michael Glavan (Lurch) has worked as an actor, director, playwright, and teaching artist across the country, and appeared in this season’s Depot Theatre production of RED. NYC/Off Broadway credits include ULTIMATE MAN!, AMERICAN HERO, THREE SISTERS, SEX TIPS FOR STRAIGHT WOMEN FROM A GAY MAN, MIRACOLO, and ETHEL. TV appearances include SHAHS OF SUNSET and WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE WITH ANDY COHEN.

Vincent DiGeronimo (Uncle Fester) is a singer/songwriter as well as an actor, and is making his Depot Theatre debut. He has played Seymour in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS in NYC, Charlie Davenport in ANNIE GET YOUR GUN at the Pines Dinner Theatre, has worked on two shows in the NYC Fringe Festival (I CAN HAS CHEEZBURGER THE MUSICLOL and PROPHET IN PINK), and was in ALWAYS, RACHEL as part of the NYMF.

Felix Haskins (Pugsley) is a twelve-year-old Brooklyn-born Westport resident making his professional debut in THE ADDAMS FAMILY. Previous roles in the Depot Academy include Jack (INTO THE WOODS) and Simba (THE LION KING). In his free time, Felix enjoys making art, playing the cello, swimming, and having fun with his friends.

Dru Loman (Lucas) makes his Depot debut in THE ADDAMS FAMILY. Recent credits include THE SOUND OF MUSIC (Rolf), NEWSIES (Jack Kelly), WEST SIDE STORY (Tony), MARY POPPINS (Robertson Ay), and BIG RIVER (Tom Sawyer). Dru hails from Wilmington, NC and is a High Point University graduate.

Brenda Chase McColgan (Alice) is a special needs aide by day, theatrical performer by night. Brenda is proud to be considered local talent, appearing as The Witch in INTO THE WOODS, Linda Porter in the one woman show LOVE, LINDA, Mary Bailey in IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, and performing Broadway standards with her husband at the Curbside by the Harborside Concert Series. Treasured roles from her life in Massachusetts include, Hannigan in ANNIE, Agnes in I DO, I DO, The Mistress in EVITA and The Beggar Woman in SWEENEY TODD, as well as her run in I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE with Showstoppers Inc.

Local audiences may know Bill McColgan (Mal) from ACT’s INTO THE WOODS (The Baker) and HELLO, DOLLY! (Horace), ART’s THE PRODUCERS (Max) and IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (George), and Plattsburgh’s Harborside Concert Series. Favorite shows/roles include URINETOWN (Lockstock), CHILDREN OF EDEN (Father), ME & MY GIRL (Bill), FORUM (Miles Gloriosus), and LES MISERABLES (Bishop), along with the murderous trio of Jasper in EDWIN DROOD, Jud in OKLAHOMA!, and the title role of SWEENEY TODD. Professional experience includes I DO! I DO! as Michael, SUGAR as Jerry/Daphne, the New England premiere of SECRETS EVERY SMART TRAVELER SHOULD KNOW, and more than 300 performances in Boston and around the country as Smudge in FOREVER PLAID.

The cast is rounded out with a talented ensemble that includes Depot alums Amy Fitts, Roman Matusiewicz, and Adam Michael Tilford, and Rachel Marie Kemp and Depot Academy alum Ella Lobdell in their Depot debuts.

TICKETS

Tickets can be purchased ONLINE or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449. More details, additional events, and news updates can be found online at DepotTheatre.org. The Box Office is open 1PM-5PM or 1PM-Showtime on performance days. Closed Tuesday.

ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2022 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Adirondack Foundation – Generous Acts Fund and the Essex County Arts Council.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY: A NEW MUSICAL
August 12 – August 28, with a $25 Preview on August 11
Book by MARSHALL BRICKMAN and RICK ELICE
Music and Lyrics by ANDREW LIPPA
Based on Characters Created by Charles Addams
Originally produced on Broadway by Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt, Five Cent Productions, Stephen Schuler, Decca Theatricals, Scott M. Delman, Stuart Ditsky, Terry Allen Kramer, Stephanie P. McClelland, James L. Nederlander, Eva Price, Jam Theatricals/Mary LuRoffe, Pittsburgh CLO/Gutterman-Swinsky, Vivek Tiwary/Gary Kaplan, The Weinstein Company/Clarence, LLC, Adam Zotovich/Tribe Theatricals; By Special Arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical
RATED: G
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: Chazy Westport Communications/Westelcom

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https://depottheatre.org/tickets/” button_text=”GET TICKETS” _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

RED – A Review

Jeff Williams (L) and Michael Glavan in the Depot Theatre’s production of RED by John Logan.

 

There’s not too much about pretentious artists that hasn’t already been explored, but even by the breed standard, abstract expressionist Mark Rothko — as depicted in John Logan’s Red — takes the cake.

“I’m fascinated by me,” Rothko (played by Jeff Williams) chirps in the Depot Theatre’s second production of their 2022 season. The thing is, we’re fascinated by him too, as he rants, browbeats, erupts, interrupts, insults, and self-glorifies his way through two years spent in his Bowery studio in the late 1950s. Read more

Depot Theatre announces cast of RED

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Westport, NY — The Depot Theatre in Westport, New York is pleased to announce the cast for its production of RED, a moving and compelling account of abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, one of the greatest artists of the 20th century.

Based on the real-life commission Rothko received in 1958 to create a series of murals for the Four Seasons restaurant in New York, RED is viewed through the lens of his youthful new assistant Ken. They challenge each other to ask big questions about art as they paint: what it takes to create it and what its role should be in the world.

Jeff Williams will make his Depot Theatre debut in the role of Mark Rothko. A versatile actor, Williams’ Broadway and National Tour credits include THE MUSIC MAN, CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG, THE PIRATE QUEEN, THE WILL ROGERS FOLLIES and A CHRISMAS CAROL. Regionally Jeff has appeared in productions of HAMLET, GOOD PEOPLE, SEMINAR, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, ART, THE CRUCIBLE, THE SISTERS ROSENSWEIG, TERRA NOVA, OUTSIDE MULLINGAR and many others. TV credits include THE GOOD FIGHT, THE MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL, WHEN THEY SEE US, TELL ME A STORY, ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, GOTHAM, TALES OF THE CITY, BULL, BLACKLIST, KIMMY SCHMIDT and THE SOPRANOS.

The role of his assistant Ken will be played by Michael Glavan. Michael has worked as an actor, director, playwright, and teaching artist across the country. NYC/Off Broadway credits include ULTIMATE MAN!, AMERICAN HERO, THREE SISTERS, SEX TIPS FOR STRAIGHT WOMEN FROM A GAY MAN, MIRACOLO, and ETHEL. TV appearances include SHAHS OF SUNSET and WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE WITH ANDY COHEN.

“These two extraordinary actors are perfectly cast by Director Elliot Wasserman to relate this searing portrait of an artist’s ambition and vulnerability,” said Depot Theatre Producing Artistic Director Kenney Green. “We’re looking forward to featuring this one-act play that is both intense and provocative.”

RED opens with a $25 Preview Night on July 21 and runs through August 7, 2022. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449. More details, additional events, and news updates can be found online at DepotTheatre.org.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https://depottheatre.org/tickets/” button_text=”TICKETS” _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_button][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. The Depot Theatre’s 2022 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Adirondack Foundation – Generous Acts Fund and the Essex County Arts Council.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

PUTTING IT TOGETHER – a review

The cast of Depot Theatre’s production of PUTTING IT TOGETHER (L-R: Elisa Van Duyne, Lauren Gunn, Hunter Nichols, Roman Matusiewicz, Adam Michael Tilford.)

Stephen Sondheim was, by acclaim, the best composer/lyricist of the latter half of the 20th century, his name up on the marquee of Broadway titans along with Irving Berlin and Cole Porter. Sondheim died last fall at the age of 91, and in tribute, the Depot Theatre in Westport opens its 2022 summer season with PUTTING IT TOGETHER, a musical revue that cleverly spins a story out of songs plucked from a cross section of Sondheim’s copious canon.

If the story itself is a bit hackneyed — money can’t buy love — it scarcely matters any more than a plain tablecloth beneath a sumptuous Sunday brunch. It’s the musical fare that is important, and TOGETHER is a hearty compendium drawn from some of Sondheim’s most notable shows. Read more

Depot Theatre Announces Cast of PUTTING IT TOGETHER

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

UPDATED 6/26/22:

Westport, N.Y. — The Depot Theatre in Westport, NY is pleased to announce the cast of its 2022 season opener PUTTING IT TOGETHER, a celebration of the stage and screen work of multiple Tony Award-winner Stephen Sondheim.

A humorous, poignant, and sophisticated musical review, the show weaves a lyrical story around the emotions and relationships of five guests attending a Manhattan cocktail party, and it features material from a number of Sondheim’s works, including ANYONE CAN WHISTLE, COMPANY, FOLLIES, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, SWEENEY TODD, MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, and INTO THE WOODS.

The Depot production is the 1999 Broadway version of PUTTING IT TOGETHER, which originally ran at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre for 101 performances and 22 previews, with a cast that included George Hearn, who was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Actor for his role as Man #1, and Carol Burnett as his wife.

MEET THE CAST

Adam Michael Tilford will play the role of Man #1. Tilford is a New York City based performer and educator. He has performed in regional theatres all across the country. Depot credits include ROUTE 66 and THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES among others. Some other favorite roles include Gaston in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and Radames  in AIDA. Adam is on faculty at AMDA in New York and is the Artistic and Musical Director at the Depot Theatre Academy.

Woman #1 will be played by Elisa Van Duyne, who has appeared on Broadway in 42nd STREET (Lorraine/Dorothy Brock cover), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, 110 IN THE SHADE with Audra McDonald, and FINIAN’S RAINBOW (Sharon cover/Dance Captain).  Regional productions include RAGTIME (The Kennedy Center), SOUND OF MUSIC (Fulton Opera House), and Paper Mill Playhouse’s KISS ME KATE.  National & European tours: WHITE CHRISTMAS, DR. DOLITTLE.  PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. Favorite roles include Betty Blake in WILL ROGERS FOLLIES, Velma in CHICAGO, Milly in SEVEN BRIDES …BROTHERS, and Young Little Edie in GREY GARDENS.  Appeared TV credits: PERSON OF INTEREST, AS THE WORLD TURNS, THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN, GOOD MORNING AMERICA, THE 2001 TONY AWARDS, and the MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE.  As a choreographer, she has staged THE WHO’S TOMMY, GUYS AND DOLLS, and BIG RIVER at Alpine Theatre Project, OKLAHOMA at Seton Hall University, THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE at Ocean County Professional Theater, and COMPANY at Middlebury College.  Other choreographic work includes tap theater pieces for BC/EFA cabaret benefits across the nation. She served on the faculty at American Music and Dramatic Academy in NYC, Paper Mill Playhouse in NJ, and Flynn Center For Performing Arts in VT.

The role of Woman #2 will be played by Lauren Gunn. Gunn’s favorite credits include ASSASSINS (Squeaky), INTO THE WOODS, (Cinderella), HAY FEVER (Jackie), MEASURE FOR MEASURE (Pompey), and THE TAMING OF THE SHREW (Bianca). She has composed comedy songs for her series, “Eh, OK”, and written pieces for the NYC sketch collective, Boogiemanja.  

Roman Matusiewicz is making his professional debut in PUTTING IT TOGETHER (Man #2). Roman has been tirelessly pursuing the arts as an actor, musician, vocalist, and composer. Born in Wisconsin, he moved to New York and continued his training at the American Musical and Dramatics Academy. He also is a committed weightlifter and fighter. 

The role of the Observer will be played by Hunter Nichols, who is a professionally trained singer, actor, and dancer in New York City with over 6 years of experience. He has played a diverse range of roles such as Prince Eric (LITTLE MERMAID) and Sky (MAMMA MIA). He has been trained by Broadway professionals in intensives such as CCM Summer Program and Destination Broadway. He has notably been featured on the Feinstein’s/54 Below stage in a miscast concert, NORTHSHORE VS. WESTERBERG this year.

“We’re thrilled to showcase this talented cast in this musical tribute to the foremost theatrical composer/lyricist of our time, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 91,” said Kenney Green, the Depot’s Producing Artistic Director. “This review is a wonderful compilation of his work encapsulated in a highly entertaining story!”

Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449. More details, additional events, and news updates can be found online at DepotTheatre.org.

 

###

 

PUTTING IT TOGETHER
July 1 – July 17, with a $25 Preview on June 30
Words and Music by STEPHEN SONDHEIM
Devised by Stephen Sondheim and Julia McKenzie
Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick

 

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https://depottheatre.org/putting-it-together/” button_text=”TICKETS” _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

IN THE NEWS: Willsboro Festival of Theatre Arts

Solos and Swashbuckling: Willsboro Festival of Theater Arts promotes arias and action

BY ALVIN REINER Press-Republican

A wonderful collaboration between Willsboro Central School Drama Club, Courageous Stage and the Depot Theatre!

 

WILLSBORO — North Country students from the sixth grade through high school participated in several workshops presented by professional actors, singers and musicians during Willsboro’s Festival of Theatre Arts.

“We had expert practitioners from the Northway to Broadway providing workshops in voice, classical stage combat, song coaching, monologues, and college and career advice,” said Jennifer Moore, Willsboro CS teacher and festival organizer.

“The event aligns perfectly with the Depot Theatre Academy’s plans to expand our education and outreach into regional schools,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre Executive Director.

VIEW FULL ARTICLE

DOWNLOAD PDF

2022 Main Stage Season Announced

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”header” _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”release” _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Westport, N.Y. — The Depot Theatre will ease into live theatre’s “new normal” with a decidedly abnormal (and eclectic) three-show lineup for the 2022 main stage season, which features a tribute to Sondheim, a riveting drama, and a spookily hilarious musical. 

The only professional Equity theatre in the Adirondacks, the Depot will continue to adhere to government and Actors’ Equity health and safety guidelines. “Just as we creatively manage the on-stage reaction to trains that interrupt our performances, we are prepared for whatever protocols we’ll need to implement to protect our cast and patrons,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre Executive Director.  “As in 2021, we appreciate everyone’s support and flexibility in making it possible to experience live theatre yet again!”  

The season opens with the humorous, poignant, and sophisticated musical review, PUTTING IT TOGETHER. This show is a celebration of the stage and screen work of multiple Tony Award-winner Stephen Sondheim, the foremost theatrical composer/lyricist of our time. Sondheim passed away in 2021 at the age of 91. 

The show weaves a lyrical story around the emotions and relationships of five guests attending a Manhattan cocktail party, and it features material from a number of Sondheim’s works, including ANYONE CAN WHISTLE, COMPANY, FOLLIES, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, SWEENEY TODD, MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, and INTO THE WOODS.  The show will run from June 30 through July 17.

Next up for the season, beginning July 21 through August 7, is RED by John Logan. Raw and provocative, RED is a moving and compelling account of abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, one of the greatest artists of the 20th century, whose struggle to accept his growing riches and praise became his ultimate undoing.

Based on the real-life commission Rothko received in 1958 to create a series of murals for the Four Seasons restaurant in New York, RED is a searing portrait of an artist’s ambition and vulnerability as he tries to create a definitive work for an extraordinary setting. Viewed through the lens of his youthful new assistant Ken, they challenge each other to ask big questions about art as they paint: what it takes to create it and what its role should be in the world.

The season ends in the kooky, upside-down world of THE ADDAMS FAMILY – A NEW MUSICAL. In this comical feast set to music, dark, macabre, beloved daughter Wednesday is now an eighteen-year-old young woman who has fallen in love with a sweet, smart boy from a “normal” family, and to make matters worse, she has invited his parents to the Addams’ home for dinner. THE ADDAMS FAMILY performances will be August 11-28.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY also provides an opportunity for local thespians. “As an Actors’ Equity-associated theatre, we are required to cast a certain ratio of Equity members compared to non-Equity members for our collective season,” said Kenney Green, the Depot’s Producing Artistic Director. “This year, we are excited to have negotiated an opportunity to offer several roles for locals in the final show.” 

Video audition submissions are being accepted through March 21. For more information about required materials, visit depottheatre.org/auditions. 

Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449 beginning June 1. As policies evolve, updates will be posted online and at the Depot. More details, additional events, and news updates can be found online at DepotTheatre.org.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”pic” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Depot Theatre’s Outdoor Box Office.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”about” _builder_version=”4.17.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2022 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Adirondack Foundation – Generous Acts Fund and the Essex County Arts Council.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

——————

PUTTING IT TOGETHER
July 1-July 17, 2022
$25 preview on June 30
Words and Music by STEPHEN SONDHEIM
Devised by Stephen Sondheim and Julia McKenzie 
Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick
RATED: PG
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: The Galley Restaurant and Bar at Westport Marina

RED
July 22 – August 7, 2022
$25 preview on July 21
By John Logan
RATED: PG-13  (Some strong language and reference to violence.) 
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: Mountain Lake PBS

THE ADDAMS FAMILY 
A NEW MUSICAL  
August 12-28, 2022
$25 Preview August 11
Book by MARSHALL BRICKMAN and RICK ELICE 
Music and Lyrics by ANDREW LIPPA 
Based on Characters Created by Charles Addams 
Originally produced on Broadway by Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt, Five Cent Productions, Stephen Schuler, Decca Theatricals, Scott M. Delman, Stuart Ditsky, Terry Allen Kramer, Stephanie P. McClelland, James L. Nederlander, Eva Price, Jam Theatricals/Mary LuRoffe, Pittsburgh CLO/Gutterman-Swinsky, Vivek Tiwary/Gary Kaplan, The Weinstein Company/Clarence, LLC, Adam Zotovich/Tribe Theatricals; By Special Arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical 
RATED: G
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: Chazy Westport Communications/Westelcom

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Area Students Invited to Participate in Festival of Theatre Arts

Willsboro, N.Y. – The Willsboro Central School Drama Club, in partnership the Depot Theatre Academy, will host a one-day Festival of Theatre Arts on May 14, 2022 from 9am to 4pm.

The Festival is free and open to all students in grades 7-12 from any school, and offers the opportunity for participation in workshops in singing, acting, dance, and behind-the-scenes technology with Depot Theatre teaching artists from Broadway and beyond.

“We’re pleased to offer this full, fun day of all things theatre,” said Jennifer Moore, Festival organizer, teacher, musician, and member of the Depot Theatre Advisory Council. “It’s a terrific opportunity for students to learn practical skills directly from professional artists, and even to explore theatre-related careers!”

“This event aligns perfectly with the Depot Theatre Academy’s plans to expand our education and outreach into regional schools,” said Ginene Mason, Depot Theatre’s new Academy Director of Outreach and Education. “We appreciate the opportunity to partner with Jennifer and the school to support their ongoing prioritization of arts and culture programming.”

Students are asked to wear masks when not performing. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Registration is open and should be submitted by May 10. Registration form is available online HERE. For more information, contact Jennifer Moore at jmoore@willsborocsd.org.

###

>> DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION FORM

ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. The Depot Theatre’s 2022 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Adirondack Foundation – Generous Acts Fund and the Essex County Arts Council.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

Depot Alumni – Apprentices and Academy Awards

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]“The creative arts are the measure and reflection of our civilization. They offer many children an opportunity to see life with a larger perspective…The moral values we treasure are reflected in the beauty and truth that is emotionally transmitted through the arts. The arts say something about us to future generations.”   -Ann P. Kahn, Former President of The National PTA
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

Many years before it was named the Depot Theatre Academy,

and before it absorbed the Boquet River Theatre Festival, the organization’s outreach and education program was called the Depot Theatre Apprentice Program.

There are many former students who have gone on to achieve success in the arts, including one who is nominated for a 2022 Academy Award for feature documentary!

Learn more about sisters Kira “Kiki” and Ani Simon-Kennedy below!

THEN

Drawing found recently in the Depot archives (artist unknown)!

“Ani & I learned so much as apprentices! From our wonderful teachers Lindsay & Mary Beth & Scott, we learned the basics of acting and so much more. We spent so much time backstage helping Jean adjust costumes and running lines with all the actors who all really knew how to have fun on the job! We have so many fond memories of being raffle sales kids and of ChooChoo the beloved trackside cat, growing up at the Depot was the best experience.”                                                                                                                      

–Kira Simon-Kennedy  
 

 

Growing up, every summer I looked forward to our time in Westport. My fondest memories were having Lindsey open my mind to the power of Shakespeare as part of the Apprentice Program, and hawking raffle tickets at intermission, balancing the huge rolls of red tickets with a wicker basket full of dollar bills. Every time we would announce the winner and they would return their prize money back to the theater, my heart would swell with pride. This was the real meaning of community theater. Being a part of the Depot shaped me in a huge way – it was my gateway drug into the thrill of putting on a production from soup to nuts. 

–Ani Simon-Kennedy 

Even after the family moved to Paris, Kira Simon-Kennedy and Ani Simon-Kennedy spent summers in Westport. Kira and Ani became Depot Apprentices as soon as they could read a script in English, encouraged by librarian Judy Moore at the Westport Library. They were, respectively, 6 and 7 years old at the time. 
  
The two did all their schooling in French until they came to the U.S. for college, Kira to University of Pennsylvania, where she studied Chinese, neurology, and photography, and where she was a staff photographer for the campus newspaper The Daily Pennsylvanian.  She holds a BA degree in East Asian Studies from the University of Pennsylvania and was a member of the inaugural class of Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice program in Social Impact Strategy and Arts & Culture. Ani headed to NYU where she majored in African Studies, film, and photography. After graduating in three years, she apprenticed in film production in New York City, and then studied cinematography and directing at Prague Film School.

NOW

During the COVID-19 pandemic of the past two years both released feature films. In 2020 Ani’s The Short History of the Long Road, which she wrote and directed, starring Sabrina Carpenter, Danny Trejo, Maggie Siff, and Steven Ogg was released by Filmrise. The film had made its debut at the Tribeca Film Festival where it received a special mention for Best Screenplay; five years earlier its script received the inaugural Dernsie award at the Bentonville Film Festival.    
  
In 2021, producer Kira’s Ascension, directed by Jessica Kingdon, about the changing nature of production, consumption, labor, leisure, and aspiration – the paradox of progress – in the People’s Republic of China was released by MTV. It had been awarded Best Documentary at its Tribeca debut and has been nominated for Best Documentary at the Gotham, Cinema Eye, Independent Spirit & the Academy Awards.  
  
Congratulations to both women – we look forward to watching as you continue to grow!

LOCALS!! ASCENSION will be screened at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts on Thursday, March 31, 2022! MORE INFO

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

Bio/Background  
  

Kira Simon-Kennedy  
  

Kira Simon-Kennedy

After graduating from Penn, Kira helped start “Caoker, a music & video web startup in Beijing aiming to bring China’s indie artists to the world and international artists to China.”   
  
Kira is co-founder and co-director of China Residencies― This multi-faceted arts nonprofit has supported over 100 artists since 2013 to foster sustainable creative exchange between mainland China, Hong Kong, and the rest of the world. China Residencies funds excellent creative people and projects & nurtures the next generation of cultural organizers.    
  
Through the nonprofit’s fiscal sponsorship program, China Residencies supports creative collectives and community organizations like BUFU, a collaborative living archive centered around (pan)Black and (pan)Asian cultural and political relationships; Yellow Jackets, a queer/intersectional Yellow American collective collaborating towards radical futures that centralize marginalized bodies; and The W.O.W Project, a community space and artist residency shaping the future of New York’s Chinatown. 
  
In summer 2021 with support from the Essex County Arts Council, China Residencies hosted three workshops in the Adirondack Mountains in the far northern reaches of upstate New York in August. “Originally intended to take place in spring of 2020 at the artist farm residency Lijiang Studio in Lashihai, a village in Yunnan province, we relocated and reimagined this project to a similar landscape in a different watershed in the rural towns where Shahong and Kira have lived full and part-time over the past year. Bringing into focus the local Adirondack Watershed, we partnered with local nonprofits and farms in the area to learn from, listen to, and create alongside the landscape shaped by this watershed and our collective presences here.”  

Johann Diedrick led a walk through nature to listen to the present, past, and future of the Adirondacks, peeling back sonic layers to reveal the history of this landscape and speculate on its future.  

Candace Thompson taught how to brew wild herbal ales from foraged plants while discussing humanity’s complex relationships with water contamination, intoxication, and remediation.  

Laura Kung taught the multi-step process of natural dyeing textile with foraged plants like goldenrod, mugwort, and sumac.  

Kira has been a fellow and mentor at NEW INC, the New Museum’s incubator for art, design & technology, as well as the IFP Made in NY Media Center creating with Katrina Neuman & Sebastien Sanz de Santamaria  Rivet, a platform to connect artists with opportunities worldwide.   
  
A photographer, Kira (aka Kiki) is a writer who has published the guides Applying for Things,  Holy Sh*t My Friend Has Cancer, and Kiki’s Guide to Kickstarter. She is also a translator of French and Chinese texts on art and philosophy. Currently, she is at work producing documentaries by Jiayu Yang (The Entomologists); Shelley Cheung Claudon (Laying The Last Track); Ana Mina (Rubbish).  Several other shorts & media projects are in development.  
  
Before the pandemic, she split her time between China, France, and the US. Now, she now lives mostly online. 
  
  
  

Ani Simon-Kennedy  

Ani Simon-Kennedy

Ani Simon-Kennedy has written and directed two feature films. Her work has received grants and fellowships from Sundance, Tribeca Film, The Gotham (formerly IFP), Film Independent, AbelCine, and Yaddo. In 2011, she partnered with cinematographer Cailin Yatsko to form Bicephaly Pictures, one of the few female-led production companies in New York City creating narrative films, music videos, documentary series, and commercials. 

Her first feature film was Days of Gray, an Icelandic dystopian fantasy. Deemed “an assured debut” by the Hollywood Reporter, the film played at top festivals around the world with an original live score by Hjaltalin. It was nominated for the 2013 Edda Awards (Icelandic Film Awards) and the soundtrack won Album of the Year at the Icelandic Music Awards.  

She then wrote, directed, and produced The Short History of the Long Road, a road trip drama starring Sabrina Carpenter, Steven Ogg, Maggie Siff, and Danny Trejo. It premiered at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival, receiving a Special Mention for Best Screenplay. Released by Filmrise, the film rose to #2 at the box office. A “breakout vehicle for its writer-director as well as its star” (Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus), the film’s screenplay now resides at the Academy’s library. It is currently available on all platforms.  

As a commercial director, she has created award-winning campaigns for Lego, Colgate, and Smirnoff amongst many others. She has helmed ground-breaking documentary series for Glamour, The New Yorker, and Vice. Her branded documentary A Touch of Sugar, confronting America’s Type 2 diabetes crisis, was narrated by Viola Davis and screened at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival. 

Most recently, she was selected to participate in Ryan Murphy’s Half Initiative television director mentorship program. She is currently in development on several projects for film and television. 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Our Mission & Vision

Mission: The Depot Theatre is to entertain, enrich, and educate through professional theatrical arts and related programs based in a historic train station.

Vision: The Depot Theatre will have a robust, regional, and year-round presence by creating the highest of quality programs, building strong partnerships, and enhancing community engagement while promoting diversity in all that we do.

Email Sign-up

Get the latest Depot Theatre News!

Sign-up

Recent News

  • Depot Theatre Opens Season Pass Sales for 2026 Main Stage SeasonMarch 16, 2026 - 4:13 pm

    Summer lineup features Tick, Tick… Boom!, Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and Ring of Fire  WESTPORT, NY — The Depot Theatre opened sales for its 2026 Main Stage Season Pass Package on March 16, offering audiences an opportunity to secure seats for a summer of professional theatre in one of the Adirondacks’ most […]

Read all News

The Depot Theatre receives funding from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

With special thanks to the following for their support of the Depot’s ongoing strategic objectives: Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust, Cloudsplitter Foundation, J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc., Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, Charles R. Wood Foundation, Adirondack Foundation, Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, Rogers Carroll Family Foundation, Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation.

Contact Us

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.