Zachary Scott Theatre Center (ZACH) operates two theatre buildings located at the corner of Riverside Drive & South Lamar Boulevard on scenic Town Lake. The Whisenhunt Arena Theatre on Toomey Road and the Kleberg Stage on Riverside and South Lamar. Free parking is available in front of both theatres.
ZACH is one of Austin's most vibrant and innovative arts organizations and Central Texas' oldest professional theatre. ZACH's mission is to engage Central Texas in a dialogue by producing professional theatre of the highest artistic quality, inspired by a unique artistic vision and to offer a diverse theatre experience which is accessible to the community as a whole. In addition, ZACH fosters artistic education, expression, and development in children, teens and adults through a variety of outreach opportunities.
With the audience seated intimately around a circular swimming pool, Ovid's beautiful myths about miraculous transformations are brought to exuberant and inventive life in the water by ZACH's ensemble of Austin actors in a visually stunning production. The transformational power of love, the inevitability of change, and the human ability to adapt are all explored in this humorous, moving and heart-felt adaptation of our shared cultural myths.
Book, Music & Lyrics by Jonathan Larson | Directed by Dave Steakley
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of New York City bohemia when ZACH transports you to the lively East Village where performance artists, musicians, and hipsters of all persuasions band together to revolt against convention. The artist squatters have taken over the theatre and have created an environment in which you are fully surrounded by Austin’s finest rock vocalists and musicians and visual...
Our little Macy’s elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit. But you won’t be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris’ wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Sedaris’ comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris’ tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh ’til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to delight...
Austin’s rock-n-soul holiday spectacle is bigger, brighter and merrier than ever! Our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart–and your booty–as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane! With the new set design (premiered just last year) this holiday party features some of ZACH’s all-time greatest vocalists in new numbers, spectacular costumes and the biggest hair ever! It’s great fun for the whole family, but get your...
After cheering the wit, charm, and romance of Shooting Star and Becky’s New Car, ZACH audiences are in for a thrilling story of intrigue as Austin playwright Steven Dietz returns to ZACH with his razor-sharp play. Two married writers live a life whose very profession places them on edge of fact and fiction. When Linda faces a fatal diagnosis, she and husband Michael are forced to confront the notion that the only thing harder than dying with a secret is living with one. Dietz, the most...
Move over Baltimore! Austin is the new home for Hairspray -- the soultastic, hair hoppin’, dance-til-you-drop musical! Big girl Tracy Turnblad has big ideas about teasin’ to stratospheric hairdo heights while dancing on the Corny Collins TV record hop countdown, and instigating a change that’s gonna come. When this equality cutie starts back-combing and bee-bopping across the racial divide, the bigots can’t stop the beat. John Waters’ campy film inspiration and...
This scathingly hilarious tragicomedy of cataclysmic proportions is one bitch of a family reunion! When Dad unexpectedly vanishes into a sweltering Oklahoma summer night, the rest of the Weston clan rushes home to figure out what the hell happened. No easy feat with their serpent-tongued matriarch whose prolific pill-popping only sharpens her vitriolic outbursts. And if mama ain’t happy … she’ll make sure you’re worse! Perfectly subversive, this entertaining...
Welcome to the musical comedy with tons of laughs and the most 2006 Tony Awards of any musical on Broadway! Martin Burke stars as The Man in the Chair, a die-hard musical fan who plays his favorite cast album, a 1928 hit called "The Drowsy Chaperone," to lift his spirits. When the musical magically bursts to life in his living room, we are immediately immersed in the glamorous, hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day,...
Lauren Lane stars in this life-affirming comedy about an eccentric millionaire who offers Becky the keys to a brand new life. This romantic farce by acclaimed Austin playwright Steven Dietz (playwright of last season's hit Shooting Star) offers a fantastically funny exploration about class, wealth and selling out during Becky's wild ride through a clever twist of events. Huge laughs, hairpin plot turns and a story with the pedal to the metal. Buckle up!
This show is a celebration our Earth. Its travel through the solar system, as creatures from outer space discover and learn what makes Planet Earth unique. The show focuses on water, recycling and ways to keep the third rock from the sun safe and beautiful.
The Wilde Party has quickly become one of the most popular gatherings for our town's gay and lesbian community, falling on the third Thursday of every mainstage production.
This month, we're happy to celebrate the diversity of Austin with a show that stars Jaston Williams, of Greater Tuna and The Laramie Project. On Thursday, April 29th, the gay and lesbian community will gather for a pre-show party before OUR TOWN with plenty of food, drinks, music and friends.
"We all know that something is eternal. And it ain't houses and it ain't names, and it ain't earth, and it ain't even the stars," says the Stage Manager in Our Town. ZACH Theatre is bringing Grover's Corner to Riverside and Lamar for one of its signature reinventions with Thornton Wilder's beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Celebrating heart, passion and community spirit, this Our Town allows audience members to watch in several settings the courtship and marriage of George...
ZACH Performing Arts School will present premier youth production of a new musical featuring Austin youth ages 12-15. Mafatu's name means "Stout Heart" but he has lived his whole life in terror of the ocean. Now the time has come to face it. Now with his dog Uri, he climbs in to a canoe and sets out on the sea to confront his fears. On the way he will battle sharks, boars, violent storms, and more. Will Mafatu survive to become the brave Chief he was meant to be, or will the...
"Susanne Abbott's No History of Prevention follows the lush, languorous direction of Sarah MacLachlan and Tori Amos by purveying a mannered neo-folkiness ... Abbott is a powerhouse performer live!" - Margaret Moser, The Austin Chronicle
Known for her roles in ZACH hits such as Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Cabaret, and Speeding Motorcycle, Abbott is back at ZACH performing live in a two-night stand to celebrate the highly anticipated release of her new self-penned, full-length...
Just when you thought The Flaming Idiots days of jugglin', jokin', throwin', swallowin', leapin' and conquerin' Broadway were over, Austin brings them back! The Flaming Idiots are returning to ZACH's stage for the sort of theatre circus hilarity that brought them to international acclaim and got them kicked out of Williamson County. Prepare to be amazed as you watch their signature spectacle come to the stage with a bound-for-Broadway reunion act that is far more...
Everything About a Day (Almost) is a fast-paced musical revue about the joy and angst of a typical day in the life of a kid, including exam jitters, social pointers, sibling rivalry and monsters in the closet! ZACH's Performing Arts School talented students in grades 3 to 7 star in this heartwarming and hilarious show best for families and kids ages 5 and up. Last year's production played to sold-out audiences. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance!
Your $100 donation will enter you in the tournament, fill your stomach with delicious food from Sullivan’s and tickle your ears with live music entertainment. You will also automatically be entered into a raffle to win one of four fabulous prizes including a Capra & Cavelli Sports Coat and Custom Little Black Dress from ZACH’s Costume Shop, a weekend getaway to Lake LBJ and more! Drinks are not included, but the bar will be open with 007 themed martinis…shaken, not...
For Families and Kids Ages 3 to 7. The ever-popular Holiday Heroes is celebrating its 10th Anniversary! Holiday Heroes explores different holiday traditions like Hanukah, Kwanza, Christmas and more. As the two bumbling stage hands ready the set of a Big Holiday Show, they discover the trappings of the different traditions in the prop box and create a musical tribute to the season.
Austin's rock-n-soul holiday spectacle, Rockin' Christmas Party, celebrates a sweet sixteen years reigning as one of our town's longest-running traditions! Bigger, brighter and merrier than ever, our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart--and your booty--as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane! Featuring some of ZACH's all-time greatest vocalists, this year's edition has a brand new set design. It's great fun for the whole family, but get...
Our little Macy's elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit. But you won't be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris' wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Sedaris' comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris' tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh 'til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to delight adult audiences. Last year, Espie...
The creators of the highly acclaimed play The Laramie Project, which since 2000 has been one of the most performed plays in America, will premiere a compelling and groundbreaking epilogue to the original piece. ZACH Theatre, who produced the Austin premiere of The Laramie Project in 2002, will represent Austin in this national theatre project by staging The Epilogue on its Whisenhunt stage. All proceeds will benefit OutYouth.
For Families and kids ages 3 to 7! Ladybugs. earthworms and butterflies explore the freshest vegetables from the community garden and travel together to the farmer's market! Created by Tina Gramann & Shaun Wainwright-Branigan.
Can you spell H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S? Nominated for six Broadway Tony Awards, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a tuneful, offbeat and smart musical. Each night, the witty cast challenges audience members and Austin celebrities to a bona fide spell-off, but be prepared: this bee is anything but typical! Great fun for all ages, this show is a unique performance filled with surprising improvisations every single night!
The most requested show in ZACH’s history is back! Selected by Janis’ sister Laura Joplin as the original star of the Off-Broadway and national tour of Love, Janis, Andra Mitrovich returns home to ZACH’s stage to channel Janis Joplin as only she can! The life and music of the rock-n-roll icon explodes onto the stage in this dynamic rock musical that offers a glimpse at Janis’ soul through the letters she wrote home and the...
Acclaimed actress and playwright Anna Deavere Smith returns to ZACH’s stage with the pre-Broadway run of her new play Let Me Down Easy – a fully staged production based on the interviews Ms. Smith developed at ZACH. Channeling the dramatically different experiences of her interview subjects, from survivors of the Rwandan genocide to the head coach of the University of Texas football team, Ms. Smith captures a grace on stage that illuminates the resourcefulness of the...
Re-envisioned by Chicago’s famed Steppenwolf Theatre Company to international acclaim, this Tony Award-Winning play tells the story of the Joad family’s exodus from the dust bowl in Oklahoma to a new life in California in search of land, jobs, and dignity. With an epic cast, stunning theatricality, and an evocative musical score inspired by Woody Guthrie and the music of the Great Depression performed live by a four piece band, this is a deeply moving affirmation of the human...
From one of America’s most produced and beloved playwrights (and the director of ZACH’s hit play Doubt) comes the world premiere of Steven Dietz’s new romantic-comedy Shooting Star. Two ex-lovers – one from Austin and one from Boston – unexpectedly reunite after 20 years while snowed in at a Midwestern airport. This delicious, bittersweet comedy has great heart with an appeal to the romantic in all of us.
BETH FALCONE (composer/lyricist) • ERIC H. WEINBERGER (librettist)
Directed by Jaclyn Loewenstein • Choreography by Adam Roberts
Musical Direction by Lana Leed
Wanda is the coolest 8th grader ever. She’s beautiful. She’s confident. And she’s the star of her own TV talk show where she gives great advice to troubled tweens. That is...in her fantasies. In real life, Wanda has a problem of her own to face. Will the kids at her new school tease her...
Pointer, who starred as Judas in ZACH's hit production of Jesus Christ Superstar/ Jesucristo Superestrella, returns for two, amazing solo performances with special guest musicians including Suzanna Choffel!
TWIST AND SHOUT! BEEHIVE, the original big hair 60’s Girl Group musical is back for its special Farewell Performances at ZACH! Created by Larry Gallagher, Beehive is the rafter-raising tribute to the Girl Groups and individual artists who skyrocketed to fame between the years 1960-69. Directed by ZACH Artistic Director Dave Steakley, BEEHIVE is the winner of six Austin Critics’ Table Awards, including “BEST MUSICAL REVUE!”
Our little Macy’s elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit, but you won’t be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris’ wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Sedaris’ comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris’ tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh ‘til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to...
Rockin’ Christmas Party reigns as one of Austin’s longest-running traditions. Bigger, brighter and merrier than ever, our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart – and your booty! – as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane. It’s great fun for the whole family, but get your tickets early because seats go fast for this wildly popular holiday shindig. For all ages! Now booking holiday parties,...
A Tribute Dinner and ZACH show stoppers: An electrifying production starring ZACH performers and their songs that stopped the show! 75th Anniversary Honorees include Marla Bommarito -Crouch, The Dell Foundation, Bill Dickerson, Tom Terkel, and The Honorable Mayor Will Wynn.
Benefiting ZACH Education and Outreach Programs, CAST CALL is a fun night including a Cocktail Party and Dancing with Austin Dance Band, The Atlantics. Also featuring Roderick and Courtney from ZACH's award-winning musical, Porgy & Bess!
Perfect for children ages 3-7. Follow Mariposa, a young monarch butterfly on her way toward Mexico to find her family at the Dia de los Muertos celebration. Join her on her journey and explore fun science concepts like the life cycle of the butterfly, migration and more. Most weekdays in October: October 14-31 Two performance times: 9:30 and 11:00 AM
Book by Tony Kusher • Music by Jeanine Tesori • Directed by Dave Steakley • Starring Janis Stinson (of ZACH's CROWNS and IT AIN'T NOTHIN' BUT THE BLUES) as Caroline It’s 1963 in Lake Charles, Louisiana and the nation is reeling from the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement and the Kennedy assassination. Caroline, working as a maid for a southern Jewish family, is struggling to keep afloat emotionally and financially, while Noah, the young son of her employer, seeks solace...
ZACH's popular and award-winning Performing Arts School offers classes and special workshops in acting, comedy improvisation, musical theatre and voice, and a series of unique Homeschool Production classes. Great classes for children 3 to 18.
Sarah Ruhl's fresh comedy about love, the power of a good joke, and the virtues of a really clean house. Starring Lauren Lane (of TV's Nanny) with Barbara Chisholm, Samarand Ciceu, Alicia Kaplan, and Tom Green. Directed by Dave Steakley. "Intelligent and thoughtful. . . a sharply funny, moving work!" — Washington Theater.
a FUNtastical, magical, musical extravaganza based on the books of Dr. Seuss -- live on stage this summer! Your family will be enchanted when Seuss' beloved characters spring to life in this energetic, heart-warming musical featuring classics such as Horton Hears a Who, Horton Hatches the Egg, Gertrude McFuzz, Green Eggs and Ham and of course, The Cat in the Hat! Dr. Seuss' most colorful characters come tumbling right out of the books and up onto our stage in this joyful gumbo of musical...
Held Over! This new musical stars five Apostles of Pop — Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham — whose spectacular music, hot dance moves and an ability to drop the funk in fantastic five-part harmony will raise your spirits. With choreography that rivals Justin Timberlake and 'N Sync, the Altar Boyz share their message of brotherhood, love and the power of good hair gel. These heartthrobs rock the masses at Zach this summer with angelic voices and hysterical lyrics such...
Held Over!
This fast-moving drama, set in the Bronx against the backdrop of a Catholic school in 1964, is as gripping as it is thought-provoking. When a strong-minded nun grows suspicious of a young priest who seems to take a special interest in a new student, she faces the decision of a lifetime. Does she voice her concerns even if she's not entirely certain of the truth or bury her suspicions and leave room for doubt?
Helpful Information: All seats are $15 every Wednesday.
This out-of-this-world rock opera takes its inspiration from cult figure Daniel Johnston, a singer, songwriter and artist who first gained recognition in Austin during the 1980s. Anyone who’s ever enjoyed Johnston’s music or drawings will want to catch this exuberant celebration of his unique creativity. The quirky love story coupled with Beatles-inspired music was a hit at Houston’s Infernal Bridegroom Productions.
Jeff Tartakov of Stress Records Museum of Love has selected works...
Loosely based on, and inspired by, the story of Joan of Arc, d'Arcproject is an original play created and acted by Zach’s Junior Troupe, a group of homeschooling teens. Developed with Tina Gramann, the students also conceptualized and wrote the script, designed the set and costumes, and collaborated with the poster design.
Performance Location: Whisenhunt Arena Theatre
Director Dave Steakley and Zach’s artistic team are creating a dynamic, re-envisioned staging of this classic in the style of the jazz and R&B recordings of legends Ray Charles, Cleo Lane, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Central Texas’ wealth of African-American singers will star, including Austin artists who have graced ZACH’s stages for the past two decades from Dreamgirls to Crowns.Event Times:
1/25 - Friday 7:30pm
1/26 - Saturday 2:00pm and...
Based on classic MGM Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney films of the 1930's, Golly Gee Whiz! is a family musical starring Austin-area children that’ll have the whole audience tappin’ their toes! Written by Eric Rockwell and Joanne Bogart, the action takes place during the Great Depression. It's 1939, and even the town of Happyville is feeling the blues–especially the kids. To lift the town’s spirits and boost the economy, Mickey and his pals decide to “put on a show!” Optimistic...
Starring Shaun Wainright-Brannigan and Jerome Schoolar, Holiday Heroes has become a classic favorite at ZACH. Created by its talented stars, this interactive, musical production will entertain all kids from 3 to 100!
The four-part harmony, guy group holiday musical returns! Thanks to a heavenly phone call from Rosemary Clooney, Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie are returning to earth in the delightful Forever Plaid sequel, Plaid Tidings. This time the quartet tunes their heavenly harmonies on holiday songs and carols, along with a hilarious tribute to The Ed Sullivan Christmas Spectaculars featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks and The Vienna Boys Choir. And, the boys whip up a Plaid Caribbean...
Rockin’ Christmas Party turns fourteen this year reigning as one of the longest-running Austin traditions of all time. Bigger, brighter and merrier than ever our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart – and your booty! – as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane.
Event Location: Kleberg Stage
Our little Macy’s elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit. But you won’t be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris’ wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Now in its 10th hit year, the comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris’ tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh ‘til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to delight...
Rockin’ Christmas Party turns fourteen this year reigning as one of the longest-running Austin traditions of all time. Bigger, brighter and merrier than ever our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart – and your booty! – as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane. It’s great fun for the whole family, but get your tickets early because seats go fast for this wildly popular holiday shindig. For all ages!
ZACH’s summer production of High School Musical played to sold out, cheering audiences. So, with popular demand for more, this smash hit musical returns this fall for a limited, encore run! Already one of the biggest musical phenomenon's, High School Musical has topped the Billboard music charts and broken records. Follow the antics of East High’s most popular students as they fall in love and secretly try to audition for the school musical. Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan,...
Follow the antics of East High's most popular students as they fall in love and secretly try to audition for the school musical. Zach's Performing Arts School presents the Broadway smash hit by Peter Baroscchini. Please note, this is a limited three week run.
Credits: Directed by Dave Steakly.
Performance Location: Texas School for the Deaf's R.L. Davis Auditorium.
A breathtaking drama in which Samuel, a former Episcopal priest collides with the ultimate test of his faith when his wife gives birth to a beautiful baby girl -- born covered with downy white fur. As his daughter grows into a child of transcendent inner beauty, Samuel struggles to regain his faith.
Performance Location: Arena Stage
ZACH presents a fresh, bi-lingual (English/Spanish), re-invention of this popular rock opera inspired by a photography book of rural home altars throughout Mexico. These private shrines have profound personal and familial meaning, linking ancient traditions with modern customs. Likewise, ZACH’s production will synthesize ancient and modern images with traditional and current Mexican musical styles to illuminate new personal truths and discoveries for everyone who call Central Texas home. ...
Before Carrie Bradshaw and her cosmo-sipping friends on Sex and the City or the Desperate Housewives of Wisteria Lane, there were The Golden Girls – four sassy seniors living out their latter years in Miami Beach. Rue McClanahan, who starred as Southern vixen Blanche Devereaux, will share her personal story that is every bit as colorful as the characters she plays. From growing up in Oklahoma to her arrival in New York City, to her time studying with theatre legend Uta...
Handsome and charismatic Darren Lemming, a Derek Jeter-like god among baseball players is every boy's all-American hero. When he unapologetically breaks the locker room 'Don't ask, don't tell' policy, his revelation sparks irreversible consequences within his team and his sport. In the midst of this turmoil enters a lonely accountant who takes Darren on as a client to manage his huge baseball contract, and is suddenly transformed into the ultimate baseball fan.
'What an enchanting and...
Back by Popular Demand!
It was such a hit earlier this year, Zach had to bring it back.
In the spirit of shows like TV’s Whose Line is It Anyway? and Chicago's The Second City, comedian and author Les McGehee takes the audience on a rockin’ tour of the best in improvisation featuring special guests, comedy, music, stories, and some weird video. It’s so much fun that you won’t believe it is improvised. You’ll laugh your lips off and will leave feeling...
In the spirit of shows like TV’s Whose Line is It Anyway? and Chicago's The Second City, comedian and author Les McGehee takes the audience on a rockin’ tour of the best in improvisation featuring special guests, comedy, music, stories, and some weird video. It’s so much fun that you won’t believe it is improvised. You’ll laugh your lips off and will leave feeling better than when you arrived. Owen Egerton, of The Sinus Show, directs this hot new stage production...
A musical comedy of manners starring a cast of talented Austin-area kids! Move over Dear Abby, here comes Dear Edwina. For the best advice in town, visit Edwina Spoonapple and the neighborhood kids as they present their zany advice-giving show, answering children's letters through a series of creative and comical musical numbers. Family musical for all ages!
Performance Location: This musical will be on ZACH's Kleberg Stage.
This semi-autobiographical, madcap farce is one of Noel Coward's finest and funniest comedies.
Stylishly attired and devastatingly charismatic, Garry Essendine is a famous, self-dramatizing actor who never met a mirror he didn't like. He teeters reluctantly towards middle age, while everyone who encounters him is completely infatuated with him. As Garry says, 'Everybody worships me, it's nauseating.' The stage is set for a battle of glittering egos as Essendine - the master of razor...
Our little Macy's elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit. But you won't be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris' wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Now in its 9th hit year, the comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris' tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh 'til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to delight adult...
Forever Plaid is one of the biggest hits in ZACH's history - it ran for over a year, was named 'Best Musical' in Austin, and The Austin American-Statesman said 'Forever Plaid sounds as if it were woven by Angels in Heaven!' Now thanks to a heavenly phone call from Rosemary Clooney, Sparky, Smudge, Jinx, and Frankie are returning to earth in the delightful sequel, Plaid Tidings. This time the quartet tunes their heavenly harmonies on holiday songs and carols, along...
ZACH Jr Performance Troupe, a group of home schooling teens, presents an original adaptation of the Dicken's classic. Can the unexpected gathering of Liza Minelli, Bob Marley, and girl scouts at a Christmas Country hoedown melt the heart of cold Ebeneezer Scrooge? Directed by Derek Whitener.
Playgroups and preschools welcome! (Rufus and Ernie know it's time for the holiday show but the theatre isn't ready yet! Join our holiday heroes as they discover traditional songs and stories from different cultures in this interactive musical experience. Plays to sold-out audiences every year!
Rockin' Christmas Party turns thirteen this year becoming one of the longest running Austin traditions of all time. It's the party of the year and our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart - and your booty! - as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane. It's great fun for the whole family, but get your tickets early because seats go fast for this wildly popular holiday shindig.
Credits: Created and Directed by Dave Steakley...
Our little Macy's elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit. But you won't be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris' wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Now in its 9th hit year, the comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris' tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh 'til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to delight adult...
Forever Plaid is one of the biggest hits in ZACH's history - it ran for over a year, was named 'Best Musical' in Austin, and The Austin American-Statesman said 'Forever Plaid sounds as if it were woven by Angels in Heaven!' Now thanks to a heavenly phone call from Rosemary Clooney, Sparky, Smudge, Jinx, and Frankie are returning to earth in the delightful sequel, Plaid Tidings. This time the quartet tunes their heavenly harmonies on holiday songs and carols, along...
A FUNtastical, magical, musical extravaganza based on the books of Dr. Seuss in a full scale ZACH production guaranteed to delight your kids, your grandkids, and to make YOU feel like a kid all over again. Seuss' beloved characters spring to life in this energetic,heart-warming musical. A great family show!
Performed by Zach Theatre Performing Arts School that brought you the hit production of High School Musical last summer!
Media Reviews
Media Reviews
There are currently no media reviews for this organization.
Member Reviews
Member Reviews
Event Name: The Drowsy Chaperone "Very Entertaining, Not "Drowsy" At All!" Review
posted by:
Pammyla Brooks
from Austin, Texas,
Aug 22, 2010
There are so many great things to say about the “Drowsy Chaperone” – where to start? First, the deep-red stage is very inviting. Second, Martin Burke does an excellent job of hosting the play...
Expand
There are so many great things to say about the “Drowsy Chaperone” – where to start? First, the deep-red stage is very inviting. Second, Martin Burke does an excellent job of hosting the play within the play. His opening line about sitting in the dark before a show begins, praying for a good show, resonated well with me, especially since we were still sitting in the dark! Since he is feeling “blue,” he puts on a record and the musical comes to life in his living room. I do love musicals. And this one does a fantastic job of making fun of itself at the same time that it is taking itself very seriously. How does one do that so well? It must be the ironic songs, such as a song about a dress that is hideous; the “Don’t want to show off” song where the actress cannot stop showing off; and a love song, where everyone comes out and starts dancing in Monkey suits! Be warned: Jamie Goodwin steals the show as Adolfo. The show is complete hilarious fun, and you only have one more week to see it.
Collapse
Event Name: Metamorphoses "Greek Myths for Dummies" Review
posted by:
kholenkhov
from Austin, TX,
Aug 17, 2010
Metamorphoses is an episodic adaptation of Ovid's epic poem. Unfortunately the production struggles to build on the theme of change that links the myths in any meaningful way. As a result it works...
Expand
Metamorphoses is an episodic adaptation of Ovid's epic poem. Unfortunately the production struggles to build on the theme of change that links the myths in any meaningful way. As a result it works primarily as an exercise in theatrical storytelling (the cleverness in which they update the myths making them accessible) more so than a resonant piece of art with a message. That being said, the theatricality is something to see. The aerialists and their acrobatics during the show are no doubt the highlight of the production. And many of Dave Steakley's choices in staging are quite amusing, and at times striking. The actors are, for the most part, very good and provide a commendable ensemble in telling these classic tales, some familiar and some not. But it is only in the the production's final vignettes (beginning with Psyche and Eros leading up to the final image of redemption) that we truly begin to feel the spectacle has a soul.
Collapse
Event Name: Metamorphoses "Metamorphic Imaginations" Review
posted by:
Road Warrior
from Austin, TX USA,
Aug 12, 2010
If you think you don't have any imagination, not to worry. Dave Steakley has enough going on for all of us in his stunning Metamorphoses. With a cast that looks like they just jumped off of Grecian...
Expand
If you think you don't have any imagination, not to worry. Dave Steakley has enough going on for all of us in his stunning Metamorphoses. With a cast that looks like they just jumped off of Grecian Urns, this show, in the tradition of story theatre is all about the director. With enough humor to balance some of the darker stories, it is a delight. Some contemporary takes on some of the gods helps put things in perspective. One nice touch was when an Apple computer showed up for a brief appearance....talk about a god. Oh, and there's lots of water and flying and total theatre in that small space. Cudos to the collaboration, the designers, and all of the wonderful imagination. And although the script isn't that strong, it is consumed by the telling of the stories in amazing ways. Highly recommended.
Collapse
Event Name: Metamorphoses "Wear your swimming suit - You will get wet" Review
posted by:
A Casual Observer
from Austin, Texas,
Aug 12, 2010
It is very unique to have a pool as the center stage, and so I was quite curious to see this play. The costumes were impressive, and the Blue Lapis aerialists arriving and departing the stage via...
Expand
It is very unique to have a pool as the center stage, and so I was quite curious to see this play. The costumes were impressive, and the Blue Lapis aerialists arriving and departing the stage via ropes to the ceiling were also spectacular. However, all this plus Dave Steakley’s creative touches on the play could not compensate for the script which was dull and slow-moving. Although the old Greek Stories were re-told with some modern updates, there was no thread that tied them together. Characters arrive and leave the stage with no apparent connection. Actors talk about themselves in the third person which makes no sense in live theater. I recommend that you save your money and see “Drowsy Chaperone” on Zach’s other stage instead.
Collapse
Event Name: Metamorphoses ""Ovid for Today"" Review
posted by:
Zelda Austen
from Austin, Texas,
Aug 11, 2010
This is a lovely theatre piece. Performed at the rim of a pool, in it, or in the air by wonderful aerialists, it tells some of Ovid's stories of young lovers who suffer such anguish from death or...
Expand
This is a lovely theatre piece. Performed at the rim of a pool, in it, or in the air by wonderful aerialists, it tells some of Ovid's stories of young lovers who suffer such anguish from death or doubt or greed or fear that they beg to be transformed, and are, into animals, birds, trees, by the pity of the gods, who cause some of their suffering. The actors are fit, great to look at, and very good; my only quibble was with their extreme regional accents, they need more voice training to overcome the American twang. But the beauty of the material, the cast, their athleticism, and the writing of the grand poet combine to make this special and uplifting. Some of the stories, Midas who transforms his daughter into a golden statue, Eros and Psyche, Orpheus and Eurydice, are familiar, others delightfully not. David Steakley to be commended for putting on something quite unusual, which deserved its Tony when it played in NY in 2001.
Collapse
Event Name: The Drowsy Chaperone "Run, don't walk to buy tickets!" Review
posted by:
Michael Meigs Austin Live Theatre
from Austin,
Jul 04, 2010
When I got home, still bubbling from Zach's The Drowsy Chaperone, I was ready to write, "Run, don't walk, to the Zach box office to get your first set of tickets for this sparkling evening of music,...
Expand
When I got home, still bubbling from Zach's The Drowsy Chaperone, I was ready to write, "Run, don't walk, to the Zach box office to get your first set of tickets for this sparkling evening of music, comedy and light-hearted fooling, a clever reincarnation of Broadway at its wonderful beginnings."
That's hyperbole, of course. Because you don't need to run anywhere. You just tap zachtheatre.org into your browser, click a couple of times and give them your payment details.
The Drowsy Chaperone is a zinger because Lambert, Morrison, Martin and McKellar lovingly spoof those energetic, naive and amazing beginnings of what became American musical theatre, admired across the world, while giving us a contemporary moderator and chorus -- in the Greek sense. Martin Burke as the anonymous Man in the Chair hosts us for an evening alone in his apartment with LP recordings of that mythical 1928 musical.
Read full ALT.com review with pix & video at http://tinyurl.com/ALT702
Collapse
Event Name: The Drowsy Chaperone "A hilarious adventure and the appreciation of theater" Review
posted by:
Angela Garner - A*Team
from Austin, TX,
Jun 29, 2010
A treat for both the avid theater attendee as well as the novice. Prepare to join the "Man in Chair" who share his laughs, scoffs, and tears over his favorite 1920's play. There is a certain fondness...
Expand
A treat for both the avid theater attendee as well as the novice. Prepare to join the "Man in Chair" who share his laughs, scoffs, and tears over his favorite 1920's play. There is a certain fondness for theater that can be felt among the audience both in comfort of appreciating the more exciting sides to watching a play as well as criticizing the more boorish acts or potentially frustrating audience situations. Over the top antics, hysterical dance numbers, and witty narration serve to rekindle our love of the stage; from the lengths we will go to watch and the risks we will take to settle in our seats unsure of what to expect. This performance filled with an undeniably talented cast is not to be missed!
Collapse
Event Name: The Drowsy Chaperone "Love Musicals? Run, Don't Walk to the Zach!" Review
posted by:
Preston Kirk
from Spicewood (Austin) TX, USA,
Jun 29, 2010
"Over the top" is an understatement for "Drowsy Chaperone," but a reflection of the Jazz Age and 1920s musicals can be nothing less than glitzy, glamorous, fun and as usual, frantic. And I love a good...
Expand
"Over the top" is an understatement for "Drowsy Chaperone," but a reflection of the Jazz Age and 1920s musicals can be nothing less than glitzy, glamorous, fun and as usual, frantic. And I love a good "spit-take" . . . spit-take . . .SPIT-TAKE!
Nick Demos, a director with "history" on this show, says it best: TDC is "a love letter to the world of musicals."
Indeed, it is joyful and infectious, with an ensemble cast tighter than a lug nut on a racecar. Martin Burke plays the "gay" card with a tad too much panache, or certainly enough to make a homophobe squirm. But you'll fall in love with Jill Blackwood's stage star Janet, and Jamie Goodwin's lusty homme fatale Adolpho. Meredith McCall, arguably one of Austin's best regional actresses, has a veritable showcase here. Ian Scott as Underling the butler/servant has dead-on comic timing. No talent is wasted;solid performances throughout. The music (too loud),lighting, costumes and proximity of audience and actors are terrific! Go now!
Collapse
Event Name: The Drowsy Chaperone "Silly, Campy Fun!" Review
posted by:
Ronda Dale Kirk
from Spicewood (Austin) TX, USA,
Jun 29, 2010
It's easy to see why this show won so many Tony Awards in 2006. Anyone who enjoys musicals can relate to the "man in the chair" narrator who is thrilled to guide the audience through one of his...
Expand
It's easy to see why this show won so many Tony Awards in 2006. Anyone who enjoys musicals can relate to the "man in the chair" narrator who is thrilled to guide the audience through one of his favorite shows. He gives opinions, fills you in on the cast and their back stories as he listens to the score on his phonograph. (Well, it IS a 1928 musical.)
The musical, right there in his living room is the dream of most theatre-goers, just stop and answer the phone, get a snack, go to the bathroom by lifting the needle and freezing the live action. Well, isn't it?
The choreography, cast and costume are outstanding. I totally enjoyed the dancing of Robin Lewis, who also choreographed the show. Austin really has a lot of brilliant local talent . . . and its on display here.
I highly recommend this uproariously funny, clever, brilliantly performed production.
Collapse
NowPlayingAustin.com is a service of the Greater Austin Creative Alliance, a nonprofit organization providing critical support services for Austin’s creative community across all sectors and disciplines.
The Greater Austin Creative Alliance is funded in part by the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division and by grants from Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts which believes that a great nation deserves great art. The Creative Alliance also receives grants from Mid America Arts Alliance and generous in-kind support from The Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, CreateAustin, Hook'em Marketing and News8Austin. We are also grateful for the ongoing support and participation of our members and patrons.
"Very Entertaining, Not "Drowsy" At All!"
"Greek Myths for Dummies"
"Metamorphic Imaginations"
"Wear your swimming suit - You will get wet"
""Ovid for Today""
.jpg)
Check out the Now Playing Austin Arts Minute on News 8 Austin! Every Wednesday!
Reviews
Top 10 Events
Promote Your Own Event
Follow Our Blog on Wordpress
Follow us on Twitter
NowPlayingAustin.com is a service of the Greater Austin Creative Alliance, a nonprofit organization providing critical support services for Austin’s creative community across all sectors and disciplines.
Check out the Keep Austin Artsy podcasts!
