By SUE SUCHYTA
“Wintertime” takes on a new meaning at Wayne State University as Charles Mee’s play heats up under the stage lights at the Studio Theatre, 4743 Cass in Detroit.
The show, featuring members of both the graduate and undergraduate companies, and set in the present day, focuses on the comic and dramatic intersection of love and partnership, and its significance through the seasons.
The show at its core is a lively comedy that focuses on love, and looks at it intellectually and romantically in ways that will surprise and enlighten.
The cast includes Katelyn Bettendorf as Ariel, with Santino Craven as Bob, Tim Hiemstra as Jonathon, Bonnie Holmes as Bertha and Kevin Keller as Edmund.
Antonia LeChe plays Frankie, with Michael Manocchio as Francois, Maria Ochoa as Jacqueline, Stephanie Stoiko as Hilda and Breayre Tender as Maria.
The author was inspired by the the Greek word “eros,” which refers to desire for what one does not have. The show, which features a diverse cast, also switches gender roles.
As the Studio Theatre brings romance to the stage, it invites audiences to “come out of the cold” for a heart-warming production.
Remaining performances are 7 p.m. Dec. 15 to 17, and 3 p.m. Dec. 11.
Tickets are $10 to $15, and are available at 313-577-2972 or theatreanddance.wayne.edu.
‘BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL’ AT THE FISHER
The Tony and Grammy Award-winning production of “Beautiful – The Carole King Musical” makes its Detroit debut Dec. 13 to Jan. 8 at the Fisher Theater, 3011 W. Grand Blvd. in Detroit.
The musical follows the early life and career of the singer and songwriter, known for “I Feel the Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” and the title song.
Producer Paul Blake said Carole King’s struggle and triumph resonate with people.
“Her music is loved the world over,” he said. “We know that audiences throughout the country will embrace this show.”
Performances are 8 p.m. Dec. 13 to 17, 20 to 23, 27 to 31, and Jan. 3 to 7; 6:30 p.m. Dec. 18 and Jan. 8; 2 p.m. Dec. 17 and 31 and Jan. 7; and 1 p.m. Dec. 18, 21, 27, 28 and Jan. 1 and 8.
To order tickets, call 800-982-2787 or go to broadwayindetroit.com or ticketmaster.com.
For more information about the show, go to BeautifulOnBroadway.com.
AUDITIONS FOR MOLIERE’S ‘THE MISANTHROPE’
Barefoot Productions auditions for Moliere’s “The Misanthrope” will be at 7 p.m. Dec. 12 and 13, with callbacks Dec. 14, at 240 N. Main in Plymouth.
Directed by Kirk Haas, the show features roles for five men and five women. Those auditioning should bring a resumé and a head shot, and prepare a one-minute comedic monologue.
“The Misanthrope” follows Alceste’s misadventures when, angered and upset by flattery and lies, he vows to only speak the truth, no matter what happens.
His friend Phillinte warns him about his plan, and Alceste’s life becomes even more challenging when he falls in love with a flirting, gossiping widow. Ultimately, his blatant truth lands him in a lawsuit and a showdown with the widow, as he become the victim of brutal honesty.
For more information, call 734-404-6886 or go to justgobarefoot.com.