Upstart Crow Studios

Go, Go, Go Joseph

2010-06-30T18:22:00.000-07:00

Vocal rehearsals began this week for Joseph and we had fun sitting around determining range and parts for the first act. With so many girly men in the brother cast, we are challenged a bit in the alto and bass parts. Next week more of the cast will arrive and lend a vocal cord or two.

The cast sounded great and enjoyed the new material. Potiphar seems to be the favorite if not the most challenging so far. We worked on Jacob and Sons, although we are still shy a brother. With Stephen Brainard and Josh Byrum sharing the role of Potiphar, we may have a hard time keeping the volume up and the giggles down!

This promises to be a very fun show for all involved. Costume committee meets tomorrow and Dr. Hoolala is designing the Pharaoh headgear and Mandi Bussell is going to be creating the fabulous coat of many colors. Ordering wigs and beards for the manly and girly brothers. A whole new twist to this Biblical tale! Don't miss out on tickets for this one.

Any Dream Will Do!

2010-06-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

After two weeks of auditions, we are finally ready to announce the cast for the 2010 Summer Stock Production - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! And yes, it wall be amazing with this cast line-up! Ready to go? We begin next Monday with vocal rehearsals - check the website for the schedule!

Narrator - Cassie Serra
Joseph - Matthew Stevens
Potiphar - Stephen Brainard/Joshua Byrum
Mrs. Potiphar - Courtney Volta
Jacob - Stephen Brainard/Joshua Byrum
Pharaoh - Jasper Freedom

Brothers
Asher - Cristina Hernandez
Simeon - Jasper Freedom
Benjamin - Conner Criswell
Judah - Coleman Byrum
Reuben - Tom Lindskog
Issachar - Sadie Waddell
Levi - DeeDee Mann
Dan - Jack Brainard
Naphtali - Aidan Zeigler Hansen
Gad - Taylor Dalton
Zebulon - Holley Flora

Wives/Choir
Madeline Blumm
Olivia Buss
Kyaia Owens
Courtney Volta
Nealey Summerfeld
Sabrina Gross
Destinee Robertson
Tanner Zeigler Hansen
Katie Brainard
Holley Flora

Some Assembly Required

2010-04-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

April showers bring May flowers but at Upstart Crow Studios there is definitely something growing, and growing...and growing. Yes, Audrey II is in the building. Generously loaned to us from Mary Huls, director of a Junction City theater group. Although these seedlings are neatly potted, the final pod will need some "dental" work. Dr. Hoolala, not a dentist or a botanist, has offered to risk life and limb as he goes inside Twooey and fix the missing tooth.

Rehearsals going well with the cast focused on staying out of the pod as they learn the choreography and songs for this dark comedy of plant versus nerd. The Entr'Actes offer a light hearted look at this people eater and the Doo Wop sisters are certainly doing their best to tell the story of a misunderstood 6 foot man eating plant with sass and class.

You won't want to miss this wild musical theatre production of Little Shop of Horrors on May 21 - 23rd. Be sure to put this people eater on your menu, before you find yourself on his!

Tickets on sale now so no whining when you get to the door and find this Little Shop is closed!

Rave In The Nave

2010-04-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

Stage Door took the stage this past weekend in Portland at Rave In The Nave, an annual performing arts series at the Christ United Methodist Church. Joined by the resident dance company, All That! Dance, the students at Upstart Crow Studios performed dance, song and drama surrounded by a live audience on a theatre in the half round stage.

Performing their 20 minute show entitled, Defying Gravity, members of the Stage Door Team appeared to be working the audience with humor and style as they opened the show with Seize The Day, a powerful number from Disney's Newsies. The show is filled with other Disney hits, such as I Just Can't Wait To Be King and Spoonful of Sugar, all defining the character of the upstart crow and the resolve to be the best that you can be while ultimately defying the gravity of being different and unique.

All That! took the stage by storm with a hot salsa number. From modern to ballet to ballroom the crowd watched the dancers move with power and grace across the dance floor. The boys hip hop group brought cheers from the audience as they artfully moved to the beat.

Prior to the performance, Stage Door members had the pleasure of working with Devon Allen, the head of Acting at Portland State University. She along with her partner, Matthew, worked with the students on volume, relaxation, a bit of Shakespeare and some intense work with the chairs!

Stage Door moves into Little Shop of Horrors rehearsals these next few weeks. With Audrey II about to make its appearance, things are about to get creepy at the Crow...if you don't mind being on the menu, why don't you join us!

So Many Shows, So Little Time

2010-04-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

The vote is in! We are headed into the Summer Stock season on the coat tails of Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat this coming July. It was a tough and close call between Joseph and Singing In The Rain. With Auditions in June quickly approaching, we are gearing up for mounting this show in an intense 3 weeks of rehearsals July 5 - 23rd. You won't want to miss out on this show. So here is a shout out to all the guys - Joseph needs brothers! Stay tuned for audition dates.

Had the unique pleasure of sitting in the audience for Dr. Horrible's Sing-a-long Blog produced by Blue Monkey Theatre Company in Portland. What a fun experience for both audience and cast! This show has been on UCS wish list for the past year and we hope to bring it to Eugene in the 2010 season. If you get a chance, schlep on up to the Pacific Crest Community Theatre and check it out. You can also watch it from Netflix. You may find yourself laughing hysterically or better yet an evil maniacal laugh! Check your freeze ray at the door!

Rehearsals begin for Little Shop of Horrors with Entr'actes highlighting this one act dark humor play. Stage Door Production Team will take the lead on this show with younger members also appearing in the fun entr'actes we have planned. Rather than take reprise numbers entr'acte cast members will have their own show within a show with doo wop and modern day numbers to compliment Audrey II, eating up the audience with song and dance. You don't want to miss out on tickets for this Maneater!

Summer camp listings will also be out this coming week of April 5th. The fun never stops and with camps in How To Tame A Dragon and Mother Goose on The Loose there will be much to crow about! Take your vacation at the Crow!

Great Opening Weekend!

2010-03-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

This cast doesn't need to wait till "Tomorrow" to hear the ringing in their ears from the applause of a packed house! Annie opened this weekend to sold out houses. The phone was ringing off the hook and ticket sales for next weekend are going fast!

But the real news is the hard work by cast and orchestra, costume and set committee made this a real showstopper! The raves didn't stop in the lobby. Before I could get out of the office last night, there were phone calls to congratulate us on the work at Upstart Crow Studios. Congratulations to all of the dedicated volunteers to make this show a success.

Backstage the tension is high. Most cast members were focused on picking up their props, being ready on cue and helpful to newbies in the cast. The Entr'Actes were so precious and filled the night with their smiles and delightful performance. Without them, the scene changes would seem endless and the costume changes would be impossible.

The long and short of it - it takes MANY hands to cook this soup! Thank you for making Annie such a huge success!

The Best Kept Secret Is Out!

2010-03-06T10:04:00.000-08:00

When visitors come to Upstart Crow Studios there is always a familiar refrain, "We never knew you were here. This must be the best kept secret in Eugene". If that be true, Suzi Steffen of the Eugene Weekly, has single handedly "twittered" and "blogged" the secret all over town.

Thursday, March 4th, marked the first time in Upstart Crow Studios 10 year history, that print media has sat up and taken notice of the work done at the Studios. Perhaps it is fitting that the Eugene Weekly has been the rumor monger that spread the word about an organization that embraces diversity and the talents of the individual. One who breaks molds rather than fits into them.

Along with a cover story on the current production of Annie, Upstart Crow is also in contention for the Pepsi Refresh Project. A voting booth was set up for opening night and inserts placed in all the programs to get the word spread farther than the borders of Eugene and Springfield to vote for Curtain Call in this month's Pepsi Refresh selection. The people will speak out and hopefully be heard. We may be a small community but each of us has the power to be heard.

Thank you to the Suzi Steffen, Todd Johnson (the photos were outstanding!) and to all of you who have supported and are now voting (everyday, remember!) to get this best kept secret out there!

Rehearsals Are Over!

2010-03-05T09:05:00.001-08:00

Sets and props at the ready. Costumes neatly lined up backstage. Final clean-up rehearsal last night. We are in countdown mode.

Opening night is always a wild card. Jitters, butterflies, tech glitches and just plain nerves sometimes cloud the landscape of the stage as we approach the opening overture. From here there is no turning back and perhaps that is the most exciting challenge of all. No matter what happens, as they say, the show must go on.

Coaching cast members to pick up lines, look to the audience, stay in character...all come into play in but a single moment. You hope that everything they have worked on for the past 3 months is in the queue and ready to burst out on stage with confidence and resolve. With so many being in and out with sickness, I think everybody in the almost 90 member cast for Annie could pick up anybody's line and move on.

The Eugene Weekly did an outstanding job of reporting the truth and nothing but the truth as they covered the show from audition to final curtain. That along with our entry into the Pepsi Refresh Project, hopes are riding high that the best kept secret in town (Upstart Crow Studios) is finally going to burst out and be heard!

Doors open at 6:00 pm, we "Green Room" at 6:30 and the virtual curtain for Annie goes up at 7:00. With community support, we hope that next year, there is an actual curtain to go up in the Crows Nest Theatre and demonstrate what creative expression is really all about!

If you are reading this...stop and go vote for Upstart Crow Studios Curtain Call at the Pepsi Refresh Project for Arts and Culture. Make a difference without spending a dime! Set computer alerts - you can vote everyday!

Break A Leg!

Rags to Riches

2010-03-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

The challenges of creating a dark dennison and moving into a swank 5th Avenue mansion, is taken on by our set designer, Laura Stowe Emery. Her magic never ceases to impress as she designs a back drop for the Warbucks mansion. Hanging the canvas drop after penciling out the marble columns and floor to ceiling windows, she paints in the details.

Lisan Mowry paints in the details of the Oval Office where FDR and his cabinet will make decisions to get the country back to work with his famous New Deal. Lisan works on the blue and off white seal and side windows on a tri-fold set that will also double as the back drop for the Oxydent Hour Radio show with Bert Healy and the lovely Boylan Sisters. Bringing these sets to life, is all part of the magic that continues to unfold behind the scenes on The Road To Annie!

Lost Warbucks

2010-01-26T17:55:00.000-08:00

It has been a long month of cast members coming in and out of roles. Last night we had the final straw. Both Daddy Warbucks were unable to take on the role! Yikes! How do you do Annie without Daddy Warbucks? These are the headaches of theatre directors.

A serious search and rescue began looking to fill the missing Warbucks' shoes. Who to call and how to convince them that this bald headed role was for them? With only six weeks left until the curtain goes up on this show, it seems a daunting task. Most of our good people are in the play already, or had other commitments and were unable to take part this year.

For "non-theatre" types, I suppose this seems like a simple problem to resolve. Any guy can play Warbucks, shaved head or not. Put a guy in a tux, let go his bravado and before you stands Daddy Warbucks. But this character reaches beyond the shiny dome and flashy duds. Can he carry a bu-bu-bu bathtub tune? Or step lightly across the NY streets with Grace dancing in his arms? And does he like dogs and orphans?

Out come the resumes and the rolodex...

The Road To Annie

2010-01-06T20:42:00.000-08:00

Suzi Steffen, Performing Arts Editor for the Eugene Weekly, is writing a series on our Winter Production of Annie from auditions to final curtain. She sat through the parade of over 80 children singing and acting their way on to the stage anxiously wishing to be Annie but excited about being part of the theatre experience. She came to the first rehearsal and is patiently waiting as we finalize the casting.

She asked me a question in an interview today. Suzi asked what prompted me to do this kind of work. I told her the first time I realized I wanted to work in theatre was watching Ted Neely play Jesus Christ Superstar under the stars in Hollywood over 30 years ago. The magic of the cool evening and the dramatic presentation on stage still brings chills.

A year ago, we took Stage Door Production Team to see Wicked in Portland. I had seen the show a few years before, so I wanted to sit behind the kids and watch them have that same experience. Live theatre, is a powerful medium. It moves through you like a tsunami, with such force and energy that you are at once consumed. When the final curtain comes down, those on stage and those in the audience are forever changed.

To share that magic, the suspension of belief, a giant leap into imagination and watching it transform a child's self esteem - that is why, I do this work. Priceless! Thanks, Suzi, for reminding me.

Now let's get to work!

The Best Bang For The Buck!

2009-10-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

Brother, Can You Spare A Buck? was a huge success and one of the best buys for your entertainment dollar. Yes, Everything Was A Dollar and from the food to the Talent Show to the Live Auction, every minute of the event was fun.

The Talent Show cast demonstrated that Crows do everything better! We had singing, dancing, musicians, comedy and juggling. The winner of the Show - Simon Waddell. What a show man! Kudos to all who made this a great show. Tim Wilcox was impersonating a one man band as he accompanied and ran the lights for the show. Todd Waddell provided our sound system for the evening. When people ask how do you do that? I have a one word answer - Volunteers. It is amazing what we can do when we work together.

On to the Grinch...but keep a watchful eye. This event will be back by popular demand!

Oh Brother!

2009-10-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

Brother, Can You Spare A Buck? benefit this Saturday, October 17th is about to explode with food, fun and entertainment - the area's first Everything's A Dollar event. Where else can you stretch your hard earned dollar than at the Crow! The biggest bang for your buck will happen this weekend at Upstart Crow Studios. And yes, it is true - everything is a dollar. Why go to fast food dollar menus when you can come to the Crow and get dinner and a show?

The Talent Show will feature our local community on stage in the Crows Nest Theatre. With our magnificent Tim Wilcox doing his impression of a one man band, we bring a whole new meaning to the words "Lights, Music, Action". In true vaudeville style, the eclectic mix of talent will include juggling, comedy, song and dance. Our lovely assistant, Gracie McKenzie, will pirouette across the stage to announce each new act as she changes the placard on the stage easel.

But wait, there's more! Grab an auction paddle and join the fun at the live auction! And yes, you bid for only a buck! From Duck tickets to gift cards, a troubadour and magician - all waiting to see who will be the highest bidder. This Depression Era event is filled with affordable fun from the moment you walk through the door and transport yourself to a time when a community came together to make fun cheap! With this Everything's a Dollar Event, Upstart Crow welcomes the down economy to turn up the smile on your face!

And wait there is still more! Bi-Mart members get free admission! Come join the fun! Our people have gone all out to create a fun family event with something for everyone and....drum roll, please - It's Only A Dollar!

Falling Into Step

2009-10-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

As the weather cools and we find ourselves more indoors than out, classes at Upstart Crow challenge our creative instincts.

Mask Making by Dr. Hoolala is a number one pick this month. With Halloween around the corner, you can design and create a mask that will make you a hit during this ghoulish season. Have fun learning how to make a life mask you can use to make a mask that is true fit to your face. Working with the master, you will learn techniques and be inspired by the artistic masks that surround you and the magic of the master himself. Classes are available for adults and kids so spend October harvesting your creative side.

Project Voice with Alli Bach is singers dream. Alli comes with rave reviews to the Studios and will teach you how to use your voice wisely and learn habits on the care and feeding of your vocal cords. The play on words to project the voice as well as making your voice the project, speaks to how the class will help with communication, theatre and singing skills. We encourage kids interested in the theatre program to work with Alli this year in these exciting classes.

We are excited to bring to you the newest performance art opportunity at the Crow. Rhythms Recycled Ensemble will be a fascinating look at using recycled materials in a performance art project with percussion, dance and rhythm. Students will work to gather materials, make them into a work of art that is functional as a pitched percussive energy that will keep the dancers hearts and feet moving to the beat. 2010 performances in local venues, including the Eugene Celebration. Join this group for some hot nights in the cold winter months ahead.

Sign up for our e-newsletter and get all the latest details and updates. Whatever you are looking for, look to the Crow for the best in youth performing arts!

Eugene's Got Talent!

2009-09-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Eugene's Got Talent or at least we liked to see some of it. Upstart Crow Studios is hosting a Community Talent Show and we would like to invite everyone to come on down and show us what you got. Everyone who auditions is in, as is our policy, but we are looking for family oriented material for our audiences. And it's free!

Can you juggle, sing, dance, do magic - how about comedy? Since the halls are full of laughter around here, there must be some talented people just waiting to strut their stuff. What about sword swallowing? Now that would be something different! Ask around and find out just who has talent among your crew and send them our way.

The Auditions are on October 5th in the Crows Nest Theatre from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. We want to see what kind of a line up we can present at our Brother, Can You Spare A Buck? event on October 17th. The talent show will be the headlining event along with "Everything's A Dollar". Yes, that's right - EVERYTHING is a dollar. From food to entertainment and auction items, this event is a one size fits all wallets. And the price of admission is ONLY A DOLLAR! Show us what you got and let the Crow put you on stage!

The 2009-2010 Stage Door Team!

2009-09-15T09:14:00.001-07:00

Here it is. The moment you have all been waiting for...Upstart Crow proudly presents the Stage Door Production Team for the 2009-2010 theatre season!

Stage Door members have committed themselves to a year of study and performance. They start their season with an intense 2 day workshop with our professional instructors. This year's team will have an opportunity to work with Alli Bach, our vocal teacher, Rainey Taylor, a theatre professional from Los Angeles now residing here in Eugene and Brenda Cook, a movement artist and choreographer.

Cast members will work with each of these professionals during the year honing their skills and gaining a wealth of experience from these teachers. The workshops begin on November 7th and will be scheduled throughout the year to work on theatre skills and rehearse for upcoming performances.

This year's performances include Portland's Rave In The Nave, Little Shop of Horrors, Art In The Vineyard, Willamette Blues and Brew Festival, Hult Showcase and the Eugene Celebration. We will also be taking a group to see Disney's The Lion King in Portland. And all Stage Door members receive an additional 10% discount on any other theatrical productions they choose during the year!

Stage Door members are strongly encouraged to work more intensely with Alli Bach in our Project Voice class. Not only does this class help develop good posture, breathing and vocal techniques, it works on developing the power to project the voice enhancing volume and proper diction. Essential to all triple threat enthusiasts, this class will be offered on Mondays before the theatre production schedule on Monday nights. Perfect way to warm up the pipes!

All That! Dance Company, our resident dance company, also offers Musical Theatre class that develops the choreography and musical theatre dance steps basic to every theatrical production. These classes are available on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. You may register for this class through All That! Dance at their website www.allthatdancecompany.com

We still have ONE spot left as we limit this group to 20 students. Could it be yours?

The team stands - Stefhani Anderson, Ben Brown, Abby Cooper, Conner Criswell, Taylor Dalton, Taylor Doble, Ila Drumm, Charlie Emery, Holley Flora, Cortney Grant, Kevin Hagel, Diamond Huynh, Emma Mowry, Victoria Richards, Cassie Serra, Maggie Shidek, Courtney Volta, Sadie Waddell, Aidan Ziegler Hansen!

Young At Arts

2009-09-10T08:21:00.000-07:00

As our children head back to school, we fill their backpacks with school supplies and healthy lunches. We drop them off at the school door step, wish them a great day and trust that once through that door, their minds will open up and absorb all that knowledge.

But like most things in life, it really depends on that first step. The joy of learning comes from a seed that is planted long before they walk through those hallowed halls of academia. From their earliest opportunities, children begin learning. Through melody, movement and creativity, the young mind opens to learning on so many different levels.

Research shows the inclusion of the arts as a core creates more awareness, mental agility and academic achievement. Children who participate in the arts at least three hours, three days a week for a year are 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, 3 times more likely to be elected to class office and 4 times more likely to participate in math and science fairs.

Upstart Crow Studios believes in the concept of arts as a core to academic development. That is the basis on which we were founded. At a time when cutbacks have become commonplace in the school budgets, UCS step up to keep the concept alive and well. This year we take it to the next level. Beyond the after school arts programming, we now offer Young At Arts, early childhood development through the arts.

A unique pre-school model for Kindergarten readiness, this program will use the arts as a core to bring music, art, dance and theatre to young eager minds. The arts core will help develop language, reading, math and science skills. The program runs September through June and will feature a three day week, three hours a day. The perfect healthy snack for those eager, hungry minds!

Moving Words

2009-09-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

As part of the All That! Dance Company Bunhead Boot Camp this past July, the young prima ballerinas reflected on the themes of acceptance and letting go. These themes were based on Bill T. Jones ensemble piece, Still/Here - a mix of choreography and spoken words from people dealing with death and terminal illness. The study of this unique and moving piece brought the young dancers to conclusions of their own through the thoughts and words of others. During the finale of their performance there was a moment of silence as they sat on the edge of the stage and shared these thoughts with their audience.

We find by losing. We hold fast by letting go. We become something new by ceasing to be something old. This seems to be close to the heart of that mystery. I know no more now than I ever did about the far side of death as the last letting go of all, but now I know that I do not need to know and that I do not need to be afraid of not knowing. God knows. That is all that matters. - Frederick Buechner

The hardest part of faith is the last hour. - David Wilkerson

Some people think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go. - Sylvia Robinson

Forgotten? No, we never do forget. We let the years go;wash them clean with tears. Leave them to bleach out in the open day or lock them careful by, like dead friends' clothes, till we shall dare unfold them without pain. But we do not forget. - D.M. Mullock Craik

For death is no more than a turning of us over from time to eternity. - William Penn

This summer our dear, sweet Fa, grandfather to Dance Director, Sarah Beth Byrum and father in law to Executive Director, Eularee Smith passed away from this life and into that place of loving memory. He ventures into eternity with us strongly tied to him and he to us. As the spoken words moved gracefully through each dancer and across the floor, his spirit smiled on.

Be Careful What You Wish For

2009-09-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

It began as an idea behind the walls of the costume room. The topic was how to make things easier for the costume crew and the cast when sorting, transporting and putting costumes in order for a show.

The solution seemed simple enough. Garment bags that could hold the costume and accessories. We didn't find anything suitable, let alone affordable while letting our fingers do the walking online. So we did the next best thing and invented the wheel...or the garment bag as it were.

Mandi Bussell, our cupcake costume designer, offered to help design a pattern. We spent the afternoon putting together ideas of what we wanted, what was practical and what we could actually pull off. She plotted out a pattern on newsprint and left it with me to put the pieces together and make a working model.

Meanwhile our trusty Board member, Stephen Brainard, talked to his mom about making a "few" garment bags. She was visiting Eugene from Colorado and eagerly raised her hand to work on the project. Unable to make a working model in the time she was here visiting, I handed her the untested pattern.

A week later, Stephen brings in a finished product. Although she only sews in white thread (we love white thread but hate white socks!) she did a bang up job. A few weeks later, we now have almost half of the amount we were hoping for. The woman is a sewing machine addict! She must be chained to her machine to do this many so fast.

Laurie Brainard, you are an amazing woman and dedicated volunteer. There is no way to tell you how much this means to our kids. Laurie says she volunteered because Upstart Crow Studios is a good organization and it helps her grandkids even though she lives in a different state.

It is nice to know that volunteers come in all shapes, sizes, ages and apparently from Colorado!

Artists Come In All Sizes

2009-08-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

The August Last Friday Artwalk signaled an intent on the part of Upstart Crow to add something new. The Crow is working on hosting youth band concerts. We found a couple of worthy candidates on the stage (indoor and out) this month.

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory (T.S.F.) took the stage to crowd of fans last night at the Artwalk. Concerned about the acoustic nature of the group, not to mention Mother Nature's unexpected rain shower, they opted to perform

inside in the Crows Nest Community Theatre. The group had a wonderful mix of harmonies and personalities that jumped out on stage. With limited instrumentation - a guitar and a set of drums, the group had almost an acappella style. An impressive set of hand crafted drums was played by a remarkable young drummer who rivaled Kings of Perscussion like Ginger Baker. What a great group and they are on the list for upcoming events.

Outside, under the stars and along a fence of paintings of musicians, Angel Torres Mann took her guitar in hand and sang heartfelt melodies, including one that was written for her brother who died tragically earlier in the year. Her sweet voice and melodious guitar touched those gathering around for the acoustic calm of the evening. You had only to look to the art hanging along the fence for the inspiration of blending art and music. She was one of the models for the artist, Erin Bucklew, in a series of paintings created on Monday nights at Allann Brothers Coffee House in Eugene. Erin, along with other artists, use their artistic talents to capture the soul of the musicians who play there on Monday nights. It was wonderful to see Angel perform to the backdrop of these paintings and the mural, all capturing the winged spirit of Upstart Crow Studios.

The Flying Crow

2009-08-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

The summer is winding down but it seems the crow is flying high. Mural artists Erin Bucklew and Kari Johnson started on the mural project this year thanks in part to a grant from the Lane Arts Council. It was unveiled at the Last Friday Artwalk in July, but this Friday, August 28th it will be revealed in all its glory.
Erin, along with some of our young crows, have added bits and pieces to make the Flying Crow a symbol for all the arts, young people and most of all to the power of creative expression within all of us. It celebrates the artist within each of us and the imagination that inspires us. A tribute to the collaborative energy in the Studios, this project has evolved into a master work with new something to discover each time you look at it.
Come join us at the final summer Artwalk and see other works by Erin Bucklew and Alex D'Souza. Come dance the night away with our eclectic youth bands playing in the parking lot from 6 to 9 pm. Come see why Upstart Crow Studios is the best kept secret in Eugene!

Making A Difference

2009-08-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

"This place must be the best kept secret in Eugene", says Lane Arts Council Director, Douglas Beauchamp. What is not a secret is the difference Upstart Crow Studios is making in the lives of the young people who come to the Crow.

This summer we have been hard at work making the power of creative expression a reality for a talented young artist. Joel Fish knocked on the door asking what he could do to make a difference. His vision began on a blank wall on the catwalk over the main dance studio. It was there he found a canvas that awakened his power to express a powerful message to all who pass through.

Two simple words now grace the catwalk wall. Pursue. Passion. From vision to execution, Joel captured the essence of the energy in this building. The small addition of motivators - "if you can dream it, you can do it" and "the power of creative expression" boldly speak to what happens at the Crow.

Upstart Crow Studios proudly joins the Last Friday Artwalk in the Whiteaker neighborhood. Artwalkers are compelled by the message and at once engaged in the possibilities. Becoming less of a secret and more the talk of the town, Upstart Crow Studios looks forward to another outstanding season.

Edgar Allen Crow Honored

2009-06-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

It was our distinct pleasure to bestow Upstart Crow Studios highest award to Edgar Allen Crow on Saturday, June 20th. The lovely Edgar turned the ripe old age of 21 years and despite her tragic beginnings, she has managed to fly above her circumstances making her the perfect Upstart Crow.

Stage Door cast members put together a small tribute on Edgar's behalf, as well wishers gathered at her birthday party at the Cascade Raptor Center in south Eugene. Edgar is the darling of the Center and greets visitors with her infectious laughter (caw, caw, caw) and her easy going "oh well". From the time she crawled across the highway to an elementary school in Veneta, she has adored children and become a human imprint. The children fed her leaves of bugs and worms and she even had her very own cupcake.

Edgar was presented with a certificate declaring her an honorary Upstart Crow. Signed, sealed and delivered this certificate bears witness that anyone (or any bird) can rise above their circumstances and use their strengths to overcome their weaknesses and truly become someone to crow about!

Happy Birthday, Edgar!

Acting Out!

2009-06-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

What a fun week with a wonderful group of artistic kids! Act Out camp is a series of classes and workshops in the arts. It offers an opportunity to explore different mediums of performing and visual arts. Campers experienced theatre, dance, music, sculpting and set painting.

The theatre class worked on a readers theatre version of the Frog Prince Continued. They even had a chance to experience what the phrase "the show must go on" means when one of the cast was sick on the last day and we had to quickly change the blocking and dispense the lines among the remaining cast.

The STOMP class began their Friday showcase with a rousing chant of "Let's go, Upstart Crow". Their class focused on music literacy through the use of rhythmic chants and creating music from objects on stage. Between feet, hands, chairs, boxes and sticks the music was engaging and fun for the youngest to the oldest in the group.

The African drumming group was superb. The dancing was tuneful in and of itself, with the steady undertones of the drum. They delighted their parents with their ability to stay on their feet through some pretty tricky dance steps.

The sets were designed and painted as a backdrop for their Friday showcase. The sets complimented the Frog Prince, while adding character to the African dance and the STOMP of the Crow! The fairytale forest was filled with charm and whimsy with polka dot trees, a gingerbread house and firebreathing dragon.

And I am sure that breakfast will bring hold more than cereal for them come next week, as they eat from their glazed bowls and spoons from the sculpting class. The work was beautiful and sparked by the creativity of each individual. You will certainly never find two of a kind in this group of talented young artists.

With more summer camps to come, I look forward to the next group of young people to add their voice and creative expression to the Crow!

Dynamic System Rocks The Crow

2009-06-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

Great concert at the Crow and no one was sitting still as Dynamic System rocked the Crow's Nest Theatre for two hours Friday, June 12th. Nathan Grant, drummer extraordinare, along with Josh Lambe, on bass, and Patrick Dodd, guitar and lead singer took the stage and didn't let go as the audience listened to the group's mix of some phenomenal covers of rock and roll greats like Zepplin, Stevie Ray Vaughn and Hendrix among others. The hard core drumming, tight leads and vocals make this group a fun experience.

You may know Nathan, as the drummer for the Upstart Crow Symphony Orchestra, and Josh Lambe, who also plays viola for the Orchestra. Tim Wilcox conducted the light show. The Crow congratulates Dynamic System for an evening of great music. Free CDS were given out to all the concert goers.

Hoping to add a few more concerts at the Crow this summer. But we hear that Dynamic System will also be performing at Sam Bond's. Stay tuned and pump up the volume as this young group turns up the heat this summer with their hard rock style and crowd pleasing shows.

You can contact Dynamic System at dynamicsystem53@gmail.com.

What is an Upstart Crow?

2009-06-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

We had the good fortune to receive a grant to produce television commercials for the Crow. It has been a fun experience for the Stage Door team, who were the on air talent. The question that the commercial poses is "What is an Upstart Crow?"

Although we know the answer to the question, we had the opportunity to see it in action. Several of the kids in the theatre and dance program volunteered their time to produce a short cabaret show for a group of 3rd graders at Ridgeline Montessori School. They wrote the script, selected the music, directed and choreographed a musical theatre cavalcade of song and dance.

The show began as a gift from the teachers. They are moving and wanted to create a special gift for the class they were leaving behind. Their daughter contacted other theatre kids and presented the idea of putting together a show in 2 weeks. Reminiscent of the Little Rascal theatrical extravaganzas of my childhood, I watched these young people carry the torch.

This is an Upstart Crow. An individual who uses their talents and energy for the purpose of positive creative expression. The collaborative effort of these crows produced a powerful message for these 3rd graders - be the best that you can be.

The crow is not the most beautiful bird, quite common, ordinary if you will. Perhaps that is the best part of my job. To see these common birds find ways to give flight to their imaginations and become extraordinary through the process. And then to share that with other young people is exactly what every teacher hopes to inspire. As a teacher, I am always striving to work myself out of a job.

Ironically, the stage they performed on was the same one that Upstart Crow performed its first musical theatre production of Beauty and The Beast. We refurbished the stage area in a closed school cafeteria. We worked with a group of teenagers from the Lane County Juvenile Justice Department almost 10 years ago. Those teenagers worked long hard hours to make that theatre space accessible. More Upstart Crows.

Upstart Crow Studios is becoming a legacy. Something to truly crow about.

One Last Song and Dance

2009-05-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Stage Door Productions performed one last time at River Road/El Camino School today. The performance was a part of the winnings of a third grade teacher, Alison Bumstead, at the school for her winning dance number in Dance With The Stars, the annual fundraiser at Upstart Crow Studios.

Stage Door has performed several venues since September and each time has left the crowd wanting more. One little boy stopped me in the hall and said "this was the most awesome assembly we ever had!" Sure, getting out of school is fun but he was impressed with kids his own age performing live theatre.

I was impressed with the ability of these young people to ensure that the show go on. Several team members were unable to make it to the performance today. Quickly the team had to determine who would pick up the lines, change the choreography and vocal parts in a matter of about 10 minutes before the curtain literally went up. Though the audience had no idea how many cast members should have been performing, the Stage Door team made the performance a flawless execution.

The theme of the show is about the unique qualities we all possess and how important it is to celebrate those unique talents rather than hide them or try to pretend we are other than who we truly are. The message came across loud and clear as these young thespians did their very best to communicate through song and dance with a dash of humor in the mix.

The last show, yes, is always bittersweet. Done are the long rehearsals, the nagging directors, the lights, fatigue and dialogue you could say in your sleep. But so are the funny moments, the awkward pauses, the tripping over each other's lines or forgotten dance step. Hopefully in their place are confidence in tight situations, pride in accomplishment and friendships that will last a long time. Texts, tweets, emails and Facebook walls filled with a job well done and the anticipation of what next season will bring.

Crows Have Heroes, Too

2009-04-26T16:26:00.001-07:00

It was with great pride that I sat in a room filled with heroes on Thursday, April 23rd. In all, the United Way Volunteer luncheon had 25 tables making this a room of 250 people who volunteer in their community an extraordinary amount of hours. They came from all walks of life, some professionals, others were teenagers and young children, many were seniors. The oldest volunteer of the bunch was 93 years old!

Their pictures went up on the screen as the emcee spoke briefly about the service these volunteers had done over the past year. The number of hours that some had volunteered was staggering. From 3 - 20 hours a week, for most and some were even higher. These are individuals who dedicated time from their busy lives to work for the greater good in their community. It really was an impressive event.

What made it even more special, was that our own Timothy Wilcox was nominated for the Arts and Culture Volunteer of the year. I don't know that many people know the amount of hours this young man gives to Upstart Crow. He works tirelessly to bring a level of music accompaniment that most youth performing arts programs do not have. He receives no pay for his countless hours of rehearsal with the orchestra, accompanying the cast at rehearsals and working with them on the their vocals as chorus and soloists. He is pretty handy with the tool box, not to mention the tech service to get the wireless up and running in the building and networking the printer in the office. And he has been seen in the hallways, vacuuming! Is there nothing this Super Hero can't do?

We have a wonderful organization, here at Upstart Crow Studios. But what makes it truly remarkable is the level of volunteerism that keeps us running. Thank you to all those who believe in the vision of keeping the arts alive and accessible to our community and especially to the children we serve. And a big round of applause for Timothy!

Happy Birthday!

2009-04-23T07:46:00.000-07:00

Today is a unique day in history and one that obviously speaks to all Crows. Happy Birthday, Shakespeare and oh by the way, bon voyage.

William Shakespeare's birth is not officially recorded but his baptism is dated on April 26th. It is commonly accepted that his birthday was April 23rd and that he was born in a house on Henley Street in Stratford, Englan. Much of what is known about the man remains in court documents and church records and most significantly from his rivals.

To be sure, that is how Upstart Crow Studios, gained its name. From the penned hand of one of Shakespeare's critics, Robert Greene, came these words, which seemed to fit our intent and mission at Upstart Crow.

Greene disparages Shakespeare, an actor who fancied himself a playwright. Greene writes this about Shakespeare.

"...for there is an upstart crow, beautified with our feathers, that with his tigers heart wrapped in a players hide, supposes he is well able to bombast out a blank verse as the best of us.."

From these words, Robert Greene gained fame. Shakespeare, on the other hand, is legend. His final enigma was to die on the day he was born, 52 years later.

We wear the term "upstart crow" with great pride. We are unique individuals with dynamic voices. All crows are welcome here. Let us celebrate the individual today in honor of this worthy playwright, Shakespeare. We all have something to crow about!

Wicked in Portland!

2009-04-05T08:47:00.001-07:00

There is nothing better than taking your kids to Disneyland for the first time UNLESS it is taking your theatre kids to see Wicked! What a great show, great day and the joy of watching their faces as they saw the magic unfold on stage was the highlight of my week, month, year!

The powerful message and music in this touring Broadway production in Portland, OR is phenomenal. The sets are well used throughout the production with Galinda's bubble being used to levitate Elphaba is just a small example. The clock opening to reveal scenes at Shiz, the Emerald City and Monkey cages was brilliant. The costumes were stunning. They captured the magic of the Land of Oz from the stylish uniforms at Shiz to the stunning gowns of Emerald Citizens - every costume change was so integral to the sets and scenes to create an overall look and feel to the piece.

Vocals and choreography were outstanding. Since the Stage Door team is performing some of these numbers in their show, it was a wonderful opportunity for them to see the energy of the music on stage. From a flip of the wrist or foot movement or "Swish, swish" of the hair, it opened up a new perspective to their interpretation within their own characterization on stage. And of course, as they file away this extraordinary musical theatre production, they are looking ahead to the time when they will be performing this play on their home turf, Upstart Crow Studios.

Yes, much to crow about yesterday. How lucky am I to have such a great job - mentoring some of the greatest kids in the world! We Defy Gravity everyday!

The Cupcakes Are All Put Away

2009-03-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

After two weeks of show shut down, the final cupcake was stacked along the wall, the floor was vacuumed and the benches arranged in a row in front of the costume racks. I have spent the last couple of weeks putting away the tea cart, packing away the Beast and his paws and trying to find a place big enough to store Mrs Potts hoop skirt...she was a VERY big woman!

There is always something bitter sweet about closing a show. By the time you get to the end of the run, everyone has nailed their part so well. They all begin to mesh as a cast and the stress of opening night is far behind them. Everyone is eager to go another weekend. The cast party and then its over. You are standing in the middle of a volcanic mass of costumes, shoes, props and scripts that need to sorted, cleaned and put away. The scripts have to be boxed up and shipped back to New York. I am never sure if it takes more time to put the show together or to put it all away.

I do enjoy the quiet. I like to take a day to sort through the costumes slowly, looking for tears, cleaning, finding the container they came from and a place to put the container back when you are done. We are getting quite the collection. With each show, I try to clean out unusable items and pull some for the next show. I remove the cast member's name and for a moment remember something unique or special about them. The little cupcake girls may have been costumed the same but each of them added their own brand of icing to the cake.

Cogsworth's cap and clearing the drawers of the Wardrobe. Babette's hat didn't make it, but Mrs Potts hat should go in the Upstart Crow Studios Hall of Fame. I was thinking how fun it would be to have a case where you could point to such things and remember the story behind it. Each show has its own memories, stories, inside jokes and energy. So putting it all away is time spent savoring the remnants of 60 kids who were beauties and at times, beasts, but were always something to crow about!

Beast, Beast, Where For Art Thou?

2009-02-25T08:51:00.000-08:00

It never ceases to amaze me what talents lie in the hearts of our volunteers. Forrest Wilcox is an absolute genius craftsman and has once again outdone himself. From my crude drawing on the back of an envelope and awkward description of impossible scene changes, this master designed and built our balconies for Beast to cry out in despair, our battle to ensue and our townspeople to herald crazy old Maurice.

Add to this genius the set design and painting by our talented Alex D'Souza, Laura Emery, Noel McKern, Doug Fuerst, and Maya Curtinzupan and you will find a magical place to suspend not only your belief, but your worries.

Dr. Hoolala will bring his own brand of magic to the stage as he costumes the wardrobe and makes Cogsworth tick. Lumiere will shine and Cupcakes will giggle in the hands of Seamstress Extraordinaire, Mandi Bussell.

Beauty and her Beast, along with an enchanted castle filled with clattering objects will bedazzle, bewitch and befuddle you as to "how did they do that?"

Come see how we put all these pieces into "play" and create our own very special Upstart Crow Magic! Tickets are disappearing!

Human Again

2009-02-20T13:22:00.000-08:00

Working the choreography for Be Our Guest proves challenging when so many cast members are out sick. This always seems to be the problem with calling for rehearsals and only some of the cast shows up. The real challenge is the short rehearsal schedule. We can't go back to teach those who missed the choreography creating more demand on those who are there to KNOW what they are doing.

Some of the cast members are also dancers, which helps. The steps are simple enough but learning to sequence them, let alone remember the sequence often confuses the novices. We have a great team, though, and they work patiently with the novice dancers. Those who are involved in dance as well, also "step up" and lend needed support to their fellow cast members.

Hopefully we can get over this sick stretch and make the most of the rehearsal time we have left. Only three weeks to show! The cast will be surprised on Monday when they see what we have in store for them!

Cupcakes, Napkins, Sporks - oh my!

2009-02-05T17:28:00.000-08:00

Working our volunteers hard on measuring and designing cupcakes, napkins and utensils for the big chorus number Be Our Guest! WIth our Lumiere shining a spotlight on the enchanted characters in the castle we are looking to find interesting costumes. The cupcakes are quite adorable with berets of whipped cream and the magic carpets look adorable waving golden tassels. Our own Dr. Hoolala is madly whipping up a cup of tea for Chip and a place for the fancy bloomers of the Wardrobe. Tick Tock, Cogsworth will butle his way onto the stage as the enchanted butler. And all for the love of a rose.

Tickets go on sale soon. Great Valentine Gift! Check the web site on February 9th. Order early!

Tea With Tights

2009-01-25T22:55:00.000-08:00

Stage Door Productions Team took the stage this weekend at Tea With Tights, an annual fundraiser for the All That! Dance Team. We were invited to be a part of the cabaret style show served up to audience members along with a full tea service. There were 23 dance numbers with dancers ranging in age from itty bitty 3 to 5 year olds to teens and every age between.

Stage Door performed You Can't Stop The Beat! one of the 5 numbers from their latest stage production. They have performed at Festival of The Trees at the Valley River Inn and will be performing at The Studio in the Hult Performing Arts Plaza in a Youth Performing Artists Celebration on April 5th. Next stop is a performance for a local school, River Road School, winner of the Dance With The Stars competition last October.

Great group of performers! Our youngest member was a shining definition of the show must go on. She performed on Saturday despite being sick for the past few days and feeling feverish at the show. She was rewarded with a few cookies and hugs all around (with the exception of her older brother) from her team mates. Bravo to one and all!

Call to Musicians

2009-01-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

Looking for something to do on a cold winter night? Warm up with the orchestra at Upstart Crow Studios. We are looking for a French Horn, Cello, Stand-up Bass and Keyboard player. Rehearsals at the Studios for Disney's Beauty And The Beast. Performances are March 12 - 15th at Upstart Crow and Wildish Theatre. You even get a t-shirt! Call Upstart Crow 688-8260 for rehearsal days, music and information.

This Provincial Town

2009-01-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Rehearsals for Disney's Beauty and the Beast have begun and what a great cast it is! This production will be double cast which means a bit of split personalities and chaos but everyone seems enthusiastic and up to the challenge. Today I spent the day rummaging through North Eugene High School's costume and prop department in the hopes of finding something from their 2005 production of B&B. Found Chip's tea cart, Mrs. Potts' skirt and the terrifying Beast's head. Looking for a hoop skirt to attach Mrs. Potts' skirt and fancy butler type suit for Cogsworth.

It is so fun to go on the hunt for costumes!

Scrooge changes his tune

2008-12-12T10:51:00.000-08:00

Outstanding performance by a lively bunch of thespians! Played to a full house both nights to rave reviews. Many of these players had to be multiple characters. A challenge for both player and costumer. But the sets and costumes did the cast proud and I do believe the Christmas Ghosts finally helped Scrooge to change his tune from Bah Humbug to a Merry Christmas for all!

We move ahead to next week's audition schedule. Yes, no rest for the weary. Our next undertaking is Disney's Beauty and The Beast. A tale of romance and intrigue, filled with music and dance, this Broadway musical is filled with the Disney magic. Don't miss the audition date on Wednesday, December 17th from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. Everyone who auditions is guaranteed a part and no experience is necessary.

Ready to rumble

2008-12-01T17:54:00.001-08:00

Ghosts are flying about and little Scroogians are getting decked out for this week's show. Dress and tech rehearsals all week, which can be grueling. Funny how things seem to go so wrong in rehearsal and somehow work out in show. Murphy's law, I suppose.

Speaking of which, Kudos to Forrest Wilcox for a great Murphy bed for Scrooge. And Alex has created a haunting masterpiece with sets. Stage Door Production team members are stepping in and helping backstage. What a great learning experience - working both sides of the stage!

Tickets on sale now.

Bah Humbug

2008-11-10T10:10:00.001-08:00

Hard to be in a bad spirit with so many good spirits floating around the Studios. The cast for Scrooge is shaking off the humbug blues. Even Scrooge (Nick) seems to be having difficulty being a crusty old man. He has decided that working with a cane might help slow him down and age him up.

The opening scene with the bean counters is coming along great. Our youngest counter, Finney (Hunter) is doing a great job of keeping time and rhyme. And Carroll (Jona) got a hair cut, making him a dashing fellow employed by Master Scrooge. And Dickens (Ben Brown) always creates lively discussion. His dual role of Ghost of Christmas Future is dynamic...when he speaks, we all listen!

New kids on the block are doing an outstanding job! Mark your calendars for this holiday rebel - Scrooge!

Dance With The Stars Winning Couple!

2008-10-24T16:31:00.001-07:00

Upstart Crow takes great pride in congratulating the Star teacher, Alison Bumstead from El Camino/River Road Elementary School and her dancing partner, Logan McGann from O'Hara Catholic School on their outstanding performance at the second annual Dance With The Stars gala event on Saturday, October 18 at the Richard E. Wildish Theatre in Springfield. Alison and Logan performed a swing dance to Do You Love Me by the Contours.

Competitors were local school teachers from the Eugene and Springfield school districts dancing with student partners from All That! Dance Company. The winning teacher receives a performance by Stage Door Productions for their school. Congratulations and thank you to all the teachers who participated! What a fun evening!

Disney Salutes Crow Family!

2008-10-24T11:35:00.001-07:00

It was great to finally make the announcement about FamilyFun magazine grand prize winner - The Byrum family! They were one of five grand prize winners in the Family Volunteer contest sponsored by Disney and Points of Light Foundation. The Byrums handed us the GIANT check at the Dance With The Stars event last Saturday, October 18th. It will go a long way to help keep children involved in the arts. In this depressed economy we have more and more families in need. The arts are critical in these times of crisis and we are thankful to be have been the recipient, not only for the volunteer work the Byrum family offers so generously, but the $5,000 award money to help these families.

Thank you Byrum Family, FamilyFun magazine and Disney! It is fantastic to see volunteerism be rewarded in such a grand fashion!

Stellar Event!

2008-10-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

Wow! The phone and emails have been flooding the Crow with kudos on the Dance With The Stars event last Saturday, October 18th. From the stars, local school teachers in Eugene and Springfield, to audience members and sponsors, there have been nothing but rave reviews. This is our second year with Dance With The Stars, and we look forward to the Third Annual, if we can ever get off the phone to get started!

Teachers are calling wanting to get on the list for next year already. Guess we will need to open this up to high schools and even the colleges (oh yes, they want in, too). We will get out the invites in April 2009 and have our list of Stars ready to go over the summer. Promises to be a great event for Upstart Crow!

Thank you to all who helped sponsor this event. It is wonderful to live in a community with so many dedicated business partners! These business partners are definitely where the Crow flies. Support them!

Starbucks, Jerry's Hardware, American Girl Magazine, Wags, Canine Communications, Our Happy Hounds Organic Biscuit Bakery, Bello Spa, Footloose Massage, Beverly Soasey, Linda Hodgert, Ruthie B's, Albertson's, Sweet Life, Mr. Formal, Blue Moon Limo, Pump Cafe, Oil Can Henry's, Prime Time Sports Bar & Grill, Kristie's Barbershop, Kim McFadden of Chase Salon, Fred Meyer, Trader Joe's, Knight Communications, Hollie Haas - Keller Williams Realty Broker, MECCA, Coburg Car Wash, Putters, Lane Ice Events Center, Bounce Gymnastics, Mookie's Kabuki's and the Science Factory.

Putting on our dancin' shoes!

2008-10-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

Lots to do before Saturday night's big benefit, Dance With The Stars but we have had such a wonderful response from teachers who are dancing to media, volunteers and patrons. It looks to be a fun evening. If you don't have a ticket, I highly recommend getting one now. We also have a very special presentation that night. A surprise you won't want to miss!

A big thank you to all our sponsors, volunteers and especially All That! Dance. Without them, none of this would be possible. The students who are dancing have volunteered their time and energy and the teachers are looking good! This is a great community event! Get ready to cheer on your favorite school, teacher or student this Saturday, October 18th at the Wildish Theatre. Be there early for the limo to arrive with the "stars" for the red carpet treatment. Reception begins at 6:30 p m. Ticket office opens at 6:00 pm or buy early online.

Dance With the Stars

2008-10-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

In the countdown mode for Dance With The Stars. Teachers are practicing their moves and the schools are gearing up for the competition. Arriving by limo the stars will make a grand entrance to a reception hosted by Upstart Crow Studios. This is a guaranteed family friendly good time! Don't be left out - get your tickets now at www.upstartcrowstudos.com

Crow has been kidnapped!

2008-09-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

Bad news, fellow Crows. Our beloved Crow has been kidnapped. The dastardly deed happened at the Eugene Celebration. Be on the look out for a miserable fellow with black feathers, yellow beak and feet. We have not received ransom demands but we realize how popular Upstart Crow is, so perhaps the scoundrels are determining the value of our Crow. Since his presence in the Studios is beyond dollar calculations, we are hoping to negotiate his return on more friendly terms.

Anyone spotting this bird, should call us immediately and we will send out a team to rescue his tail feathers! Do not attempt to rescue him on your own. The scoundrels may be dangerous and armed with bird seed. A reward of two tickets to Dance With The Stars for the Crow with information leading to the rescue of beloved mascot!

Dreaming of Eugenie

2008-09-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

Great performance by our Crows at the Eugene Celebration this past weekend. Kudos to all the great kids and volunteer parents who came out and sat in the sun all talking crow and helping potential crows try out outlandish costumes. Had a suggestion by a couple of crows for a dunk tank next year! Any volunteers for that job? It would have been nice in the heat but it will probably rain next year - and we would be a bunch of soggy crows.

More Crows getting on board for the Stage Door Production Team. We are only taking 20 students this year, so if you want in, don't wait to call or sign up. Our first performance will be Dance With The Stars and The Festival of the Trees. Remember being a member of Production Team does not mean you can't audition for other theatre performances. Stage Door is to hone your skills, especially those of you who have demonstrated your passion for the art.

In case the news hasn't spread yet, we are unable to do Annie this season as anticipated. The national touring company has blocked any theatre groups from doing it within the area that they are performing. Since they are at the Hult Center in January, that knocked us out of the box.

We have decided to flip our season with next year's offering and do Disney's Beauty and The Beast instead and put Annie on next year's schedule. A bit disappointing, I know, but hopefully this is a good alternative and we will have a wonderful chorus of forks, knives and spoons - not to mention wonderful animated characters in the castle, through the woods and of course the townspeople! Lots of roles, music and dancing to tempt even the savage beast...Auditions will be in December so keep checking the web site.

Scrooge is next - get ready for Dickens of a twist to this tale. You know we just can't leave well enough alone! Music, dance and a delightful funny story...what a great way to spend the holiday! No auditions for this production. We begin on Oct. 20th with our regular theatre schedule on Mondays and Thursdays. Check the web site for details.

Coming right up - Dance With The Stars! This will be great fun with local schools competing for a chance to see Upstart Crow's production team perform for their school! Come cheer on your school or just to enjoy a great night of dance! Lots of fun for everyone. If you came last year you know we ain't lying, if you miss it this year, you will be cryin'!

The Crow is dreaming of Eugenie

2008-09-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Last call for all crows who would like to be part of the Eugene Celebration...if you are within the sound of my caw, head on down to the Studios on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 10 - 1 for a rehearsal of the performance for the Eugene Celebration. We will be doing reprises of Cinderella, Grease, Wizard of Oz and Music Man! If you would like to volunteer to man the booth at the Kid Zone on either Saturday or Sunday at the Celebration, call the office. We are looking for a parent and two kids to volunteer 2 hours. All volunteers get a Celebration bracelet to enjoy the rest of the Eugene Celebration so it is a great way to be a part of the fun!

Come by and see everyone as we gear up for the new season at the Open House on Saturday, Sept 6 from 1 - 3 pm. We will have registration available for the new Production Team - Stage Door Productions and for Scrooge, which starts on October 20th. Hear all about Dance With The Stars and

We perform on Saturday, Sept 13 at 1:30 pm. on the KidZone stage. If you can't be part of the show or volunteer, then come down and watch! The KidZone is free!

Just Flew In!

2008-09-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Just got back in on the tail of Hurricane Gustav after being bounced around a bit by Hurricane Fay! Wild couple of weeks in Florida but the creative juices are flowing and we are ready to hit the ground running!

Open House on Saturday from 1 to 3 pm. Come on down and see what the crow is up to. More information will be available about our upcoming theatre schedule, events and the new Stage Door Production Team. There will be free dance classes and a preview of our Eugene Celebration show! You won't want to miss this.

Speaking of Eugene Celebration, come out to the KidZone on Saturday and Sunday and make some fun with us. We are looking for volunteers to man the crow booth - hoping to get kids involved since they really know the ropes around here. We will be performing from 1:30 to 2:00 pm on the corner of 8th and Olive. Volunteers get a bracelet so they can enjoy the rest of the festivities. The KidZone is a free area so bring the family and enjoy!

If you would like to be a part of the performance or can volunteer, give us a call!

Open House

2008-08-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hey, come on down to Upstart Crow Studios on Sept. 6 - going to have a great open house. Lots of fun - free dance lessons, theatre performances. And all the latest info on the upcoming season for Scrooge and Annie. Information will also be available for our new youth production team - Stage Door Productions - ages 5 to 16 years. So much is going to be worth crowing about you don't want to miss a minute!

Crow is flying south for a couple of weeks so see you in September!

Marching On

2008-07-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the cast of The Music Man. It was phenomenal! We had so many kudos from the audience saying it was amazing! From the choreography to the music and acting, everything was top notch! Cast party tonight - does the party every stop at Upstart Crow?

Music Man Camp

2008-07-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Great job today by the little ones in The Music Man. With separate rehearsal times for the younger cast, we will be working them everyday this week. Songs and dances from The Music Man and they will also be Entra Acts - a key element for those of us backstage trying to change sets, costumes and quiet the riot! Super bunch showed up today and have already learned Wells Fargo Wagon...its a comin' down the street and stopping right here at Upstart Crow Studios. I hope Mayor Shinn is aboard, because he is the last piece to this puzzle. But having a fun time putting it all together. Don't miss this show!

We Got Trouble

2008-07-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

The trouble is right here in River City, we are having WAY too much fun at rehearsals. The cast seems to be enjoying the fact that our very own Harold Hill, Chas King, is a billiard playing hustler and proud of it! The Ladies Society is all but faint from his captivating and charming snake oil ways of shaking things up in their quiet little town of River City. Marcellus, the infamous Ben Brown, is trying to keep Marian the librarian, the formidable Helene Morse, from poking too far into Professor Hill's questionable past. But the burning question is...can Amaryllis, the sweet Taylor Dalton, play that note on the piano right? Yes, she may!

Right Here In River City

2008-07-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

The Upstart Crow Symphonic Band has been practicing for the upcoming event - Right Here In River City! An old fashioned concert in the park. Everyone is invited to bring a picnic lunch, family and friends and head down to Skinner Butte Park at River Play and spend a sparkler afternoon of fun and music. Admission is free so come join the crows and win a chance to conduct the orchestra...that is if you can wrangle the baton away from Tim!

Hurray for Iowans!

2008-07-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Last night's rehearsal was outstanding in its field - corn fields, that is! Just a little Iowan humor and a great big howdy to all our cast members. Great song and dance numbers. Marion the Librarian (Helene Morse) was not one bit amused by the wiles of the crafty Harold Hill (Chas King), although Marcellus Washburn (Ben Brown) did try to warn him. Still room for some Iowans in the corn field if you think you'd like the pickin'!

Quick Sale!

2008-07-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

Are you a quick talker? Ever tried to make a quick buck? If you have ever wanted to be in theatre but just can't find the time - how about joining The Music Man cast as a salesman. We need 5 guys to play the jive talking salesman in the opening scene. This is a fun, fast paced bit that would require a few rehearsals but not everyday like the rest of the cast. Once a week and then homework, dress rehearsals and show nights. Think about how much fun you could have...not enough? Then think about how much we need you...not enough? How about $9.95...but wait - there's more! Your name in the program and if you have a business card, we will put a free ad in the program. Now what salesman can resist that! Give us a call and let's make this deal happen!

Romeo, Romeo

2008-07-03T10:19:00.001-07:00

Where for art thou? We need four male roles for Music Man. Anybody out there have any resources for tall, dark and handsome men? Okay, we will settle for short, light and good looking but we NEED four guys to kick start this play. We have a strong cast but believe it or not these four roles are pivotal to the play. If you have a friend, dad, brother, uncle, neighbor, co-worker - call them up and tell them how much fun they can have working with us! Get out there and crow!

Theater camps

2008-06-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

Lots of fun ways to spend the summer here at the Crow! Check out our theater camps, dance camps - yes, even a pirate camp!

76 Trombones

2008-06-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

We are gearing up for Summer Stock production of The Music Man. Tomorrow, July 1, we will be hosting auditions beginning at 6 pm. Come on down if you want to have a fun three weeks of intense theater work. No experience necessary - 12 through adult, so Mom and Dad, this is your turn to get in on the fun.

The Wall is Down

2008-06-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

With Secret Garden done, we look ahead to Music Man. Open Call Auditions begin next Wednesday at 7:00 pm at Upstart Crow Studios. So many parts to fill! This is our summer stock production, which means we include ages 12 through adult. Yes, kids, your parents could be on stage! Many parents have requested an opportunity to join in the fun. Here it is. Rehearsals begin on July 7th from 6 to 9 Monday through Thursday. It is a LOT of work, but it is also a LOT of FUN! No experience necessary, people, so come on down and audition!

Singing a sweet tune!

2008-05-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks for answering the call for the orchestra. Filled all the vacancies but the keyboard player. If you know an advanced keyboard player, have them give us a call.

We are also looking for singers for the ghostly dreamers in The Secret Garden. Interested? Not much in the way of rehearsal but sure could use your pipes. Looking for 4 to 6, male or female, middle school and older. Choir experience helpful but certainly not necessary. You don't even need to read music. A couple of one hour rehearsals and show dates of May 31st and June 1st. Come by and check out a rehearsal - Monday or Thursday from 6:30 - 8:00 pm and see if you'd like to warble with with us.

Stay cool, be hot!

2008-05-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

Looking for Marion and Harold. Have you seen them? If you do, will you send them to Upstart Crow Studios on May 21st between 7 and 9 pm? Tell them they have to be at least 16 years old and have to be able to sing. Cold reads are a nice way to stay cool and make a hot impression. Try out for our Summer Stock production of The Music Man. Three weeks of the hottest thing to do with your summer vacation! Rehearsals begin in July!

Will Play For fun!

2008-05-06T18:28:00.000-07:00

Looking for something to fill those empty hours? Upstart Crow Studios needs you! Do you play an instrument? We are looking for musicians for the Upstart Crow Symphony Orchestra - the only balcony orchestra in the WORLD! Middle School (8th grade) and up are encouraged to call us and come play in the orchestra. Secret Garden needs more orchestra members. Rehearsals will begin this week. High school students - this does count for community service hours! A two-fer! Have fun and get credit. You know you want to...there is safety in numbers and we just have a lot of fun. So give us a call. We need a violin, french horn, cello, clarinet, keyboard and trumpet. Call our music director, Tim Wilcox (now there is a fun guy!) at 554-5267 or email twilcox@uoregon.edu. You can call the office, too - 688-8260. Fiddle around, toot your own horn, but whatever you do - come play with us!

Birds don't sing as sweet

2008-05-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

Cast sang confidently through vocal rehearsal last night. Colin, despite the character's weakness, warbled beautifully. Now if I can get him to sing like a flock of birds maybe he will be heard over the orchestra! Good job, people!

Hard to keep a secret

2008-05-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

Last night's rehearsal was full of giggles. Dickon and Mary had a hard time keeping a straight face and Dr. Craven did his best to keep Colin quiet with his impression of a mad doctor! Colin, fortunately, used his volume to shout "NO" as the Mad Doctor approached him with the needle...oh, you want details? Guess you will have to come and see for yourself. Tickets will go on sale next week! Great job, Cast!

The Wall Is Going Up!

2008-05-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

Our set designers for Secret Garden met last Friday and got right to work on creating the magic. The wall surrounding the garden is up but don't think you can get in without the key...and only the robin knows where it is! So read the book by Frances Hodgson Burnett and find out about the secrets that lie in the garden. Good book, great play. Stay tuned. On Monday we search the racks of the UO Costume Department - who know what magical costumes we will find!

Action, Lights, Camera

2008-04-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

Want to get in on the excitement of theatre but not sure standing on stage is your thing. There are lots of fun things to do behind the scenes - today we will be working on set design for The Secret Garden. This will be a challenge because there is a Student Showcase happening the night before. The sets will need to be all black for the Showcase and a garden and library for Secret Garden.

We are always looking for people to run lights, work on sets, costumes, the program - lots to do in a theatre. If you are in high school these hours count as community service but mostly they count as a great way to kill time and have fun. Interested? Call us- there is always room for one more at the Crow's Nest!

Ongoing Classes

2008-04-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

Along with our production of The Secret Garden and class offerings from All That! Dance, Upstart Crow Studios hosts several classes open to the community.

Iwalani Chafran teaches the expressive art of hula to students of all ages through Island Arts Productions. Hula classes currently meet in Studio 1 on Tuesdays 6pm-7pm. Call or email Iwalani for more details. 541-688-6585 iwalani1@msn.com

On the other side of the expressive dance spectrum, Tobey Johnston offers a breakdance class open to ages 10 and up. Classes meet in the Crow's Nest Theater on Tuesdays from 6:30pm-7:30pm. Call Tobey Johnston at 541-953-5102 to sign up.

These two amazing instructors have taken full advantage of our beautiful studio spaces. Imagine what you might teach. Send your class proposals to info@upstartcrowstudios.com

Great Rehearsal

2008-04-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic group of cast members we have for this musical production of The Secret Garden. We did character studies last night and it was obvious that everyone had some wonderful insights into their character. It was fun to write up on the board all the ideas the group had to share. Becca Morris came in for the choreography and worked with a few cast members on the ballroom scene. There are ghostly figures in the background that we still need to add to the scene but the dancers worked through the awkward moments and were becoming quite graceful by the end of rehearsal. Kudos! Better get tickets now for this one!

The Secret Garden

2008-04-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful Tony award winning Broadway play with an all youth cast. With haunting music and story, it is a delightful family show. Based on the book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the story is about an orphaned girl who comes to live with her uncle in Yorkshire, England. Poor thing has a broken heart and finds her young cousin suffering from an illness he has had since birth. Both find happiness in the garden that heals both their spirits and bodies. Tickets are on sale now for performances May 31th and June 1st.

What's going on this Summer

2008-04-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

You ready for Summer? We are. Check out what we have going on.

Upstart Crow blogs!

2008-04-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

Hello and thanks for visiting our blog. We're exciting to be here and look forward to using this venue to share information about our programs, the community, the industry and whole lot more.

Wondering who we are?

Upstart Crow Studios was founded in February 2000 in Eugene, Oregon, working in humble, nomadic ways — school gyms, church basements, private studios, and retirement community centers. In February 2002, and after many months of working with a student volunteer program to refurbish the stage at Willard Elementary School, the curtain opened on our first stage production, Beauty and the Beast.

From that first production, and only a handful of students, we have literally grown by leaps and bounds each year. Realizing the need to find a permanent home for our expanding program, we opened the doors of Upstart Crow Studios School of the Arts in September 2006. Our dedicated staff, enthusiastic parent volunteers, local community leaders and hardworking Board of Directors have generated the energy and support to make this dream possible.

The vision of Upstart Crow Studios has always been to seek out the everyday child. The child that doesn't know they have talents and gifts and to demonstrate the power of creative expression.

From our early days, to the opening of our new facility, our vision remains constant.