Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Season’s Greetings from Justine Lambert and Looking Glass Theatre!

Season’s Greetings from Justine Lambert and Looking Glass Theatre!

My most recently received email was to our house managers about how to handle the SOLD OUT crowds for our final week of the Winter 2009 Writer/Director Forum. Luxury Problem!

This (among other joyous) success doesn’t mean we don’t need your support. Please give. I’m sure you’ve heard the pleas and perhaps are feeling the crunch yourself, but if you value theatre, creative freedom and what we do for our lovely lady (and men!) artists, just be as generous as you are able. Any amount from $1 to $1 Million will truly help! Click here to contribute – or mail your contribution to the address below. Remember, all contributions are tax-deductible!

Now back to the fun stuff. We are going into the next decade with a lot on our plate. Our first Mainstage show is actually an old one, March 13 – April 25, we’re bringing back Ready, Set, Story! If you’ve read my past blogs or letters, you’ll know already how much I adore this children’s play. It’s simply a perfect combination of fun and learning (think Leapster on stage, with mythology). Rose and Emily (director/author) couldn’t BE a better team!

Next up is 70 Million Tons….of icky sticky grimy muck! We theatre folk can’t help loving a good self referential comedy about theatre. This one’s about how companies like ours can fight the good fight and go green! Sounds like a heavy subject, perhaps but this is comedy through and through. Can a pretentious big wig save the world with a scrappy cast and crew in under an hour…..or else….God’s bringin’ it on, floodwise, AGAIN! We love that it’s funny and we love the opportunity to learn about how we and perhaps you our audience can be a part of the solution. The show is scheduled April 5 -28. Look for talkbacks and surround events on re-using, environmental conservation and, of course, green theatre practices.

Speaking of events we’ve got two great ones coming up in February 2010. We’re holding our first-ever clothing swap, so save all your “gotta get this outta my closets” and get ready to find new wardrobe treasure. AND we’re planning a V-Day event to support this amazing cause and give Rose Ginsberg the chance to create more beautiful theatre for a cause that she cares about deeply.
OMG, I’m super excited that we’re having long term Artistic Associate Jennifer Goodlander bring in her latest project. As yet untitled, it’s a Balinese Puppet show based on a Woman Warrior myth! So cool. And so cool to get our beloved Jennifer back once again. This is a very limited presentation in March so get tickets as soon as they become available.

Our next benefit (always a great party) will be Tuesday, April 13 and I have to mention our amazing upcoming Space Grant, wait, make that Grants - plural. We received such strong applications this round that we had to choose THREE winners! You will be seeing their information on our web site soon.

Hey, don’t forget there will be another incredible gathering of women directors/playwrights for the Spring 2010 Writer/Director Forum, June 3-27.

DARN IT (stronger expletive deleted). I don’t have space to brag about our just-ending fall season! Please go look at our blog our Facebook page and our web site – or follow us on Twitter – to read about it, because I’m crazy proud of Aliza, Shari, Rose, Emily, and Kenneth, to name but a few. And see pictures of the Benefit (amazingly organized by Megumi - AKA rock star) and the Winter FORUM!
Enjoy magical theatre dreams this holiday season,
Justine
Justine Lambert
Artistic Director
Looking Glass Theatre
422 West 57th Street
New York, NY 10019
http://lookingglasstheatrenyc.com/

Friday, December 18, 2009

THE LOOKING GLASS PERFORMANCE SPACE GRANT-Feb.-March, 2010

ANNOUNCING THE LOOKING GLASS PERFORMANCE SPACE GRANT-Feb.-March, 2010

Seeking proposals from theatre companies!
Grantee(s) will receive performance space (anytime between February 17-March 6, 2010) including one technical rehearsal, and marketing and publicity (text provided by you) to our email press and audience lists and a listing or link on our website.

85% of ticket sales go to Looking Glass with 15% going to the Grant Recipient.
Grantee shows will be credited as COMPANY NAME, in conjunction with The Looking Glass Space Grant Program, presents SHOW TITLE

Additional rehearsal time will be made available at a deep discount when available.
DEADLINE: Applications accepted beginning Monday, December 14, 2009 through Monday, December 21 at 6pm.
Final Deadline Monday, December 21 at 6pm.

Proposals must be submitted via email to Artistic Director Justine Lambert at LookGlassJustine@aol.com as one (1) attachment. Companies are encouraged to make contact (via the above email address) in advance indicating their intent to apply and/or with any questions.

Applicants will be contacted with the final decision no later than Wednesday, December 23, 2009.

What you provide: A production(s) that reflects our mission statement.
OUR MISSION-Reflecting life on the stage with truth and theatricality while exploring a female vision. See web site for more! http://www.lookingglasstheatrenyc.com

Bottom line-Either playwright or director must be female (both is great but not required). Cast must be half or more female (for classics gender bending casts are accepted to meet this requirement). Female subject matter not required.

1) The Proposal-A one page description of the project including story, concept, and tone. Include running time. Include technical requirements and keep them MINIMAL, shows will be sharing the space.

2) Creative Team-List of all creative team members already on board with short bios. (Director or Playwright must already be chosen)

3) Space Request- Your ideal opening date and performance dates requested between February 17-March 6, 2010 (Maximum of 12 performances).

4) Marketing Description-A description of how you will attract a crowd!

5) Company Mission-Your mission statement and a description of activities along with current staff list.

Please put the above sections in their stated order and include the number and name of each section at the top of that section. Recommended length about 4 pages. Scripts are not required but may be requested after initial proposal review.

Please note: The Looking Glass Theatre is in an old and historic, but drafty building. Shows should be appropriate for winter (warm costumes, etc.)

The Looking Glass Theatre is located at 422 West 57th Street (btwn 9th/10th Aves). 212-307-9467 www.lookingglasstheatrenyc.com

Justine Lambert, Artistic Director
Jenn Boehm, Managing Director