This is a rundown of shows and activities in theater you can catch around town. ‘Theater About Town’ navigates you through an eclectic array of performances, offering a glimpse into the diverse talent and creativity thriving within Savannah's theater community.
Experience “Shakespeare's Secret Play” at Front Porch Improv
This is not a midsummer night's dream; this is reality. Front Porch Improv is presenting a new show, “Shakespeare's Secret Play'' every Friday and Saturday in July. This is a unique way to beat the summer heat and be entertained.
"While living in NYC, one of my favorite summer traditions was seeing 'Shakespeare in the Park,'" said Brianne Halverson, Co-Artistic Director of Front Porch Improv.
Halverson has experienced improvised Shakespeare productions commonly seen in larger cities like Chicago, London, and NYC but had not been seen in smaller cities before.
"We knew bringing this concept to a smaller city like ours would be ambitious, but we were excited by the challenge and believed our audiences would love it,” she said.
The premise of their show is that Shakespeare wrote a play considered too scandalous for its time, leading to it being hidden away. During the performance, the audience is asked to provide a title for this lost play, which the troupe then uses as a jumping-off point to improvise a completely fabricated Shakespearean tale filled with all the classic elements: duels, poison, mistaken identities, star-crossed lovers, and more.
"We love narrative improv, so we thought, why not start with some of the best narratives—Shakespeare's works?" said John Brennan, Co-Artistic Director of Front Porch Improv. "This gives us permission to explore surprising or risky topics, like having a dog be the lead tragic character in a doggy park in Savannah."
"We aim to playfully poke fun at Shakespeare while also expressing our admiration for his work," said Halverson. "Our actors bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for the Bard, while our directors ensure the improv and comedy elements really shine through."
The show also features a "Fun House" segment, where the audience can directly influence the unscripted moments, including improvised songs, comedy, puzzles, and competitions.
"No two shows are alike at our theater; it's live, and our audience members can participate a ton or just watch. It's 100% up to them," said Halverson.
As an award-winning improv troupe, Front Porch Improv continues to innovate and evolve their comedy while honoring their Savannah roots and Shakespearean inspirations. Their primary goal is to create a friendly, welcoming space where people can enjoy a good laugh with friends, old and new.
"We practice every Thursday evening and during the week to keep our skills sharp. We practice, practice, practice. We love being present and entertaining audiences,” said Brennan.
Whether you're well-versed in Shakespeare or new to his plays, Front Porch Improv's "Shakespeare's Secret Play and Fun House Comedy'' promises a one-of-a-kind Shakespearean spectacle with a contemporary, innovative spin. For tickets, visit frontporchimprov.com.
The Savannah Children’s Theatre Encore presents "Jekyll & Hyde" the musical
The Savannah Children's Theatre (SCT) has launched its brand new program, SCT Encore. They are presenting "Jekyll & Hyde" the musical, which opened on July 5 and ends on July 14. Experience the timeless battle between good and evil in the captivating musical phenomenon, "Jekyll & Hyde." Based on the iconic story by Robert Louis Stevenson, this production features a thrilling pop-rock score by acclaimed composers Frank Wildhorn and Leslie Bricusse, leaving audiences around the world spellbound. Purchase your tickets here.
Savannah Stage Company holding auditions for "Ragtime" this month
The Savannah Stage Company is announcing open auditions on July 20 and 21. Their 2024 "Season Of Sustainability" is in full force as they announce auditions for "Ragtime." This is a professional theater company looking to hire adult and teen artists for the show. "Ragtime" has music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally Company. All positions are paid. Sign up now for your spot at a chance to help tell this story at Tybee Post Theater this fall. Registration link here.
Enjoy "Grease" the musical live at the Savannah Theatre July 18 - Aug. 3
The musical-turned-movie that brings us back to the days of loud cars, big hair, and summer lovin’ is coming to the stage at the Historic Savannah Theatre. The whole cast of "Grease,” including our beloved high school summer lovebirds, Danny and Sandy, will rock the stage with their classic songs that are still favorites today. If you love the movie, you will be sure to love Savannah’s revival of this incredible show. Featuring the Savannah Theatre’s award-winning cast and band. Get tickets here.
