Curtis Lovell, new artistic director of Ujima Theatre, discusses what it's like to follow his mother's legacy in leading the theatre forward.
It's a busy week for theater openings on local stages so let's start there with a look at five productions, before going on to other events.
"The Fitzgerald's of St. Paul," preview by Irish Classical Theatre Company. This is the first chance audiences will get to see a fully staged production of this new musical by Christie Baugher that explores the relationship of Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Broadway choreographer Danny Mefford ("Dear Evan Hansen") directs Shannon O'Boyle and Jewell Wilson Bridges. The limited-run engagement is Nov. 8-24 at ICTC, 625 Main St. (irishclassical.com, 716-853-4282).
"Witch" from Road Less Traveled Productions. Scott Behrend directs this dark comedy by Jen Silverman about a charming devil who bargains for souls and thinks he has an easy mark in a woman who is branded a witch. Surprise - her soul can't easily be bought. It stars Wendy Hall, Chris Hatch, David Marciniak, Alex Anthony Garcia, Johnny Barden and Renee Hawthorne. Performances are Nov. 7 to Dec. 8 at Road Less Traveled Theater, 456 Main St. (roadlesstraveledproductions.org).
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"Grease" from Starring Buffalo. This nostalgic musical continues the Starring Buffalo tradition of bringing Broadway stars to Buffalo to perform alongside local talent. Artistic Director Drew Fornarola directs Broadway's Caitlin Houlahan ("Waitress"), Daniel Quadrino ("Wicked") and Morgan Siobhan Green ("Hadestown") along with local actors, students from West Seneca West and Gowanda high schools and dancers from the University at Buffalo. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9 at Shea's 710 Theatre, 710 Main St. (sheas.org, ticketmaster.com).
"King James" at D'Youville Kavinoky Theatre. This story of two LeBron James fans told over 12 years looks at friendship, loyalty and the influence of sports on our lives. Written by Rajiv Joseph and directed by Thembi Duncan, it stars Brendan Didio and Jake Hayes. The play runs Nov. 8-24 in the D'Youville University Kavinoky Theatre, 320 Porter Ave. (kavinokytheatre.com).
"The Thanksgiving Play" from Ujima Theater Company. What happens when four well-meaning white people think they're making a politically correct Thanksgiving play by hiring a Native American actress only to learn that well, she's white? That means there are some tough talks and decisions ahead in this satire written by Larissa FastHorse. Rachael Jamison directs. It runs Nov. 8-24 in the Lorna C. Hill Theater, 429 Plymouth Ave. (716-281-0092, ujimacoinc.org).
Also happening
Christmas in the Country. Nov. 7-10 at the Hamburg Fairgrounds, 5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg.
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For many, the return of Christmas in the Country is the start of the holiday shopping season. This is the 40th year for the popular event and if you've never been to it, here's the deal: More than 450 artisans - including 40 new vendors - will be selling their handcrafted creations throughout five buildings at the fairgrounds. (Yes, five buildings - wear comfy shoes.) The show is so big that many attendees take advantage of the free return pass that allows you to come back as often as you want. Among the items you'll find are home and holiday décor, unique jewelry, clothing, pet items, leather goods, pottery, items for infants and kids, candles, gourmet food and wine and spirits. Food trucks will be outside between the main and back buildings. Tickets benefit the P.U.N.T. Foundation, Hamburg Eden Animal Rescue Team (H.E.A.R.T.), Variety - The Children's Charity of Buffalo and Hamburg Presbyterian Church. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 7 and 8, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 9 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 10 (wnypremierpromotions.com).
Edward Honeck Buffalo Night-Life Music Awards. 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Cove Seafood and Banquets, 4701 Transit Road, Depew.
This second annual event will honor local musicians with awards in 31 categories. Craig Korka hosts the event that includes live performances and benefits WNY Drummers for the Homeless. Tickets are $15.
Michael Gelen: Posters for the Irish Classic Theatre Company. Opening reception is 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 at the Western New York Book Arts Center, 468 Washington St.
A busy theater week, especially one that includes the newest play by Irish Classic Theatre, is perfect timing for the opening of this retrospective exhibit by Buffalo artist Michael Gelen. His posters for the plays have a signature design that is instantly recognizable. "His creativity knows no bounds and his talent and graphic artistry have played a significant role in the longevity and continuing success of ICTC," Vincent O'Neill, ICTC artistic director emeritus, said of the artwork. The retrospective by Gelen, an award-winning illustrator, graphic designer and teacher, continues through Dec. 7.
Hurricane Helene Relief dinner. 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 at the Knights of Columbus, 261 South Legion Drive.
This dinner hosted by WNY Community Outreach and the Erie County Blotter will raise funds to support the homeless and recent hurricane victims in Florida and other states. The menu includes spaghetti, chicken Alfredo, salad and bread. Tickets are $12-$15 with a cash bar.
Community Health Day/Veterans Day. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11 at the Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway.
In honor of Veterans Day, Independent Health is sponsoring free admission to the museum with multiple community and family related activities, winter wellness info and fun for the kids from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At 10:30 a.m. and noon, there will be children's story time readings of "They're Heroes Too: A Celebration of Community" and "Hero Mom." Kids can get their photos taken with characters including Buster Bison. Veteran-focused organizations will be on hand including Johnetta R. Cole AMVETS Post 24 and the African American Veterans Arts and Culture Corporation. Community Health Day activities and informational tables also include organizations like the Police Athletic League, YMCA Buffalo Niagara, SPAR Self Defense, Mental Health Advocates of WNY, 95 Nutrition, Compeer and Goldfish Swim School. The four floors of the museum will be open for guests to explore.
Friday Night SmackDown. 7:45 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 at KeyBank Center.
Roman Reigns is the latest name to be added to this WWE live event returning to Buffalo. Also look for WWE champion Cody Rhodes, U.S. champ LA Knight, WWE Women's Tag Team champions Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill, plus Bayley and Solo Sikoa. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. (ticketmaster.com).
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