Whether giving new playwrights a stage during SparkFest or letting comedians work on new material in their popular standup comic residencies, Amphibian Stage helps us view the world through fresh eyes. Madeworthy talked with Jay Duffer, Amphibian’s Artistic Director. [Editor’s note: This article was edited for space in the magazine, but Jay’s answers are so good that we wanted to run the whole thing on our website.]

Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

Madeworthy: Congratulations on the 25th season! Tell us a little about how Amphibian Stage came to be.

Jay Duffer: Amphibian Stage was founded in 2000 by three TCU graduates. Kathleen Culebro, the Founding Artistic Director, and her producing partners, Carman Lacivita and Jonathan Fielding, envisioned a theatre company providing bold and innovative work to the DFW metroplex and adding another option to the theatre landscape in Fort Worth for theatergoers. The fledgling company used spaces donated by TCU in the early years before moving to the Fort Worth Arts Center. In 2012, the company was among the first businesses to plant its roots in the now vibrant South Main Street in Fort Worth’s near Southside. Since its founding, the theatre company has garnered high praise and recognition locally and beyond.

MW: What was the first production at Amphibian Stage?

JD: I believe it was Landford Wilson’s Burn This.

Jay Duffer and Elizabeth Kensek
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: Last year, founding director Kathleen Culebro stepped down, leaving you as the sole artistic director, and Elizabeth Kensek joined as managing director. Will these changes affect what playgoers have come to know and love about Amphibian?

JD: In short, no. I believe the mission and vision of the organization are solid, and its unique trajectory has been set since its inception. Creativity, innovation, and engagement are at the core of what we do. We still have a deep committment to new works as well as presenting plays that are lesser known/have not had productions in the DFW area. When asked what separates us from all the other theatres, I usually respond, “The work we do, you will not find anywhere else in North Texas.”   This is not always the case, but we will continue to intentionally seek out those excellent stories and storytellers needing a home for a supportive, creative process. Our programming will continue to inspire and challenge and hopefully impact how we view the world around us.

“The Amazing, Fabulous, and Spectacular Untruths of Juan Garcia”
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: Amphibian Stage has always championed new playwrights without relying on a stable of “safe” productions. To be blunt, how is that possible?

JD: Great question! And I have a lot to say in response. Several things attribute, I think. There is a spirit of adventure in our theatergoers. If you attend an Amphibian Stage production, you are coming knowing that the work “gets into trouble”. Good trouble. That is to say, the work not only entertains but also takes smart risks. It’s not predictable. The work surprises, delights, and challenges. I also feel like those who donate, be it individual donors, foundations, or grants, invest in our mission of supporting such unique work. We know there is a natural draw to those stories that have huge commercial success, for example, Steel Magnolias or A Christmas Carol, but that’s not our vibe. There’s nothing wrong with such commercial successes. These works are done everywhere and should be. We simply present the alternative. Amazingly, we have the support and resources to take such risks. We offer, if you will, other culinary delights to the meat and potatoes diet. By the way, this has perplexed me throughout my whole career from the consumer/patron’s point of view. People flock to see the newest concert and will pay big time to sit on that front row, or they will be first in line to catch that new movie, but when it comes to theatre, the tried and true and familiar seems to take precedence in purchasing habits. So getting people to come see new work – and be excited about it – is a necessary challenge for us. We wear the badge proudly, and we take on the challenge basically one patron at a time. If we can get them here, they always love it and come back for more.

SparkFest: “Barren”
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: What is SparkFest? Could you give us a sneak peek at SparkFest 2025?

JD: SparkFest is an annual festival centered around the simple idea that a spark of creativity can lead to immeasurable results. It is a 10-12 day festival developing new works from emerging and established playwrights from across the country, there is a high-stakes acting competition with awards in the thousands (ala The Cliburn), moving story-telling, lively and entertaining music events, comedy shows, exhibits, parties, etc. Every year, the festival uplifts and celebrates a specific community within the wide swath of the American people. Last year, we celebrated the AAPI Community, and this year, we are thrilled to celebrate the Native and Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (North America) and the Hawaiian Islands. The festival brings in more than 65 artists from around the country every year and is packed with highly entertaining events that our patrons and community have come to expect. This year’s dates are June 13-22. It feels like a 10-day party. Oh, and we offer our popular wine slushies only during this festival. Come get out of the summer heat and enjoy the Spark!

MW: A lot of us only know standup comedians via their specials on various streaming services. Your standup residencies offer both upcoming and established comedians an audience as they work out new jokes and routines. Can you tell me a little more about these evenings?

JD: Yes, we are not a comedy club. Let’s make that distinction clear.   The comic residency aligns with our core mission of supporting and developing new work. There was no standard for developing new comedy other than the comedian going from club to club and working the material out on their own. We offer a place for that development to happen over the course of two to three nights. I know nothing like this offered anywhere else in the country. Our North Texas audiences love being a part of that process. They know they are hearing jokes for the first time, and some comedians even stop to get audience feedback. Every comedian is different, so each experience is unique. Our audiences are supportive and highly entertained. So far, we have had the pleasure of hosting 2 Saturday Night Live cast members, Sasheer Zamata and Melissa Villasenor, in addition to Phoebe Robinson (she has visited twice to sold-out performances), Baron Vaughan, River Butcher, Aparna Nancherla, Chris Laker and 2024 brought in Cat Cohen to rave reviews and packed houses.

SparkFest 2024 – This Is My Story
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: I know our readers (many of whom are parents of high school students) would love to know more about your summer intern program.

JD: We often offer internships to high schoolers. We have created concentrated experiences for high schoolers to get hands-on training in sound, lighting, set building, producing, community outreach, etc. Information about these opportunities can be found on our website on the community outreach page. Internships can also be in the fall or spring, not just the summer. This year’s internship involves working with the producing team on SparkFest 25. The submission process has closed on that opportunity. However, we do have another opportunity that will be posted for a possible Sound Intern/Apprentice coming up in the fall. I encourage parents to keep checking the website for updates. Because we are a small organization, each experience is different and can be tailored to the student’s needs. Encouraging the young artist in training is a privilege for us and is paramount as we pass the torch of craft and knowledge to the next generation. It is an investment in the student, and should they stay in Fort Worth, it is an investment in future designers/actors/theatre makers ready to share their talents with our community.

MW: National Theatre Live offers viewers access to the productions of Britain’s National Theatre. How did Amphibian become Fort Worth’s way to view NT Live productions?

JD: I’m so sorry. I don’t know it’s genesis. And I should! So, I’m guessing here. I know Kathleen wanted to bring even more options to our Phib audiences. The National Theatre in London is a gem among the global theatre community. We have an incredibly generous donor (who wishes to remain anonymous) who supports the program. The Modern is an amazing partner in this endeavor, and we are presenting the screenings. The many various productions are simply awe-inspiring. So, it was a natural fit in the theatre’s progression. It also gives us the opportunity for exposure to The Modern members and those who visit the museum. You don’t need to purchase a flight to hop across the pond. You can see high-quality productions for some of the lowest discounts we offer. Wins all around for us and for our patrons.

“Rooted”
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: “Rift, or White Lies” will be about to premiere when this issue goes to press. Can you tell us about the rest of the 25th season?

JD: It’s stellar! As Artistic Director, I want to say that I’m particularly proud of this year’s selection of shows. “Rift” is a gripping masterpiece of writing: taut, compelling, and complex. I’m certain the play has a long and successful future ahead of it. And I think our patrons will say, “We saw Rift at Amphibian Stage BEFORE it went to…greater and bigger places.”  We have cast two incredible actors (plus an amazing understudy) and are bringing in our A-team of designers and director for this one. The best thing to know about this show is that the actors will alternate roles every performance. So, you can see it twice and see an entirely different interpretation of the character. “The Heart Sellers” moved me tremendously when I first read it. It is funny and heartwarming, but what checks the box for Amphibian Stage is that it is uniquely focused on the budding relationship between these two strangers who find incredible solace as they experience great loneliness after immigrating to the U.S. “The Birds” is a most interesting moral fable, if you will. Yes, there are some good Halloween chills and thrills, and the tension in the script is palpable, but what McPherson has beautifully and sometimes poetically penned is more terrifying than Hitchcock’s film, in my opinion, because the true sense of horror in this story is not the inexplicable attack of the birds on humankind; but the capability of seemingly decent humans to choose evil over good.

MW: What does the future hold for Amphibian Stage?

JD: I hope to continue the dream that Kathleen began 25 years ago. This means we remain committed to bringing the highest quality, innovative, and engaging live theatre to Fort Worth. It also means that Amphibian Stage remains relevant and engaged, not just in our own community but also in the national theatre scene. Yes, some programming might adjust or evolve. I am excited about some community programs in the early stages of development (hopefully, we will have more to share about these opportunities later this year or early 2026). But, overall, I do not wish to reinvent the wheel here. If anything, I’m doubling down. I remain committed to bringing our audiences experiences that will inspire them over and over again. I love our little corner of the world at the intersection of S. Main and Vickery. From here, the truly amazing staff (I’m so honored to work with these dedicated and talented individuals) and I can impact our immediate community by providing them with art and experiences that are as necessary to their well-being as a deep invigorating break, that deeply satisfy their desire for creative interactions and that can cause profound tremors in the soul. We can entertain, yes, but we also can create a transformative experience for our patrons. That is a north star worthy for the journey ahead. And, if we are doing our jobs right and well, it has a ripple effect beyond just Fort Worth.

The post Made in Fort Worth: Amphibian Stage first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Elizabeth Kensek’s appointment comes as the organization bids farewell to its founding Artistic Director, Kathleen Culebro, who will step down at the end of this year after 25 years of leadership. Elizabeth will collaborate closely with the newly appointed Artistic Director, Jay Duffer, and the Board of Directors to oversee the theater’s business operations, administration, and daily activities. Together, they will ensure Amphibian Stage’s continued financial health, artistic quality, and commitment to its mission.

Elizabeth’s hiring has the full support of Amphibian’s administration, staff, and Board of Directors. Her extensive background in arts administration and her passion for live theater make her a valuable addition to the team.

Jay Duffer and Elizabeth Kensek
Photo by Evan Michael Woods

Jay Duffer, Artistic Director, said: “I’m ecstatic to work alongside Elizabeth. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience in producing nonprofit professional theater. Because of this, I’ve no doubt that the transition will be seamless for our staff, donors, and patrons. She comes with such great ideas and vision—she is going to teach me things about the job! In the past few weeks, Elizabeth has already demonstrated how quickly she can adapt to our unique ethos, mission, and values. I knew I had to seize this opportunity quickly. She is a highly valued asset to our North Texas artistic community and is beloved by artists and patrons alike. Everything she will bring to our organization and community will be beneficial to our longevity.”

Jennifer Jolin, Board President, added: “Elizabeth’s skill set and experience in the industry, along with her wonderful personality and can-do attitude, make her a perfect fit. She will enable Amphibian to move into the future with new ideas while maintaining the unique culture that makes us such a special part of the arts scene in the Metroplex.”

Elizabeth Kensek expressed her excitement: “I am honored to be joining Amphibian Stage in their historic 25th year. I have been a long-time admirer of Amphibian and of Kathleen Culebro and Jay Duffer as artistic leaders in American Theatre. As a supporter of professional theater, I rarely missed an Amphibian production since returning to DFW 5 years ago. I was always struck by the high caliber of talent, ingenuity, and creativity in their programming, but also by my own excitement every time I walked into their lobby—knowing that I was about to be welcomed in and would have the opportunity to experience something new and unexpected. I am thrilled to get to work with the whole Amphibian team, and I look forward to being a champion of their mission—sharing the excitement I always felt with fellow theater lovers as Amphibian enters its 26th Season. I believe in serving the artistic community here in DFW, and I believe that we have the opportunity to become a national destination for theater.”

Elizabeth Kensek
Photo by Evan Michael Woods

Elizabeth Kensek brings over 20 years of experience in the theatrical arts—as a performer, stage manager, educator, and producer. She grew up in Chicago, graduated Magna Cum Laude from Illinois Wesleyan University, and called NYC her home for over a decade. She moved to the DFW metroplex in August of 2019 to serve as the Associate Producer of WaterTower Theatre in Addison, TX. A professional actor since the age of 13, she has worked in theaters across the US in genres including musicals, plays, classical, devised, experimental, and children’s theater in over 100 productions. Elizabeth is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association and has expanded her professional theater experience to include stage management and producing roles in the last decade. In NYC, she served as the Director of Development and Artistic Associate for Theatre 4the People and was a member of Working Man’s Clothes Theatre Company.

In DFW, she is recognized for her work with The Barcus Brothers band at music venues and as an actor on local stages. Elizabeth is a founding member of the DFW Theatre Alliance, which united North Texas professional theaters during the pandemic, and she has served on grant committees for TACA and NAMT. Elizabeth lives in Anna with her partner, Steve Barcus, and their two dogs, Henry & Junior.

The post Amphibian Stage Appoints Managing Director first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

photo credit: Evan Michael Woods

It’s a question as old as time. Or at least as old as 728 BCE. (Remember this. It’s important.)

Every summer, Fort Worth’s Amphibian Stage hosts SparkFest, a festival of staged readings, acting competitions, workshops, lectures, and performances of new plays. It’s a celebration of all things theater, and it’s fantastic if you haven’t been.

Stay with me. I know this seems like article whiplash, but I promise it will all make sense soon.

Last summer, New York-based playwright Harley Elias debuted a staged reading of his play The Handless King at SparkFest ’23. (Staged readings are a way for playwrights to see how an audience reacts to their in-development play.) The Handless King tells the story of an Assyrian eunuch scribe whose job is to record the events of a battle for his king in cuneiform on clay tablets.

An Assyrian eunuch scribe?? I know, I know. Stay with me.

This scribe has worked his whole life to perfect his cuneiform. It’s the writing of the gods, after all. And while he works, counting up bodies on the battlefield, he dreams of writing his beautiful cuneiform for something else, something without purpose — something like… poetry. Yes, in between cross-referencing hacked-off body parts, our scribe invents poetry.

And then, one day, our scribe learns his beloved cuneiform is being replaced by something called Aramaic, and he is being replaced by a younger scribe who knows Aramaic.

Sound familiar now?

photo credit: Evan Michael Woods

After its staged reading at SparkFest, Elias’ The Handless King is now on stage at Amphibian Stage through August 18. The dark (and I mean DARK) comedy explores technological advancements, workplace ethics, the nature of the ruling and the ruled, and ultimately, friendship. I was fortunate enough to see it on Friday night.

Patrick Bynane plays the world-weary Ubru, who writes his poems (without purpose!) as he sifts through arms and legs on a Mesopotamian battlefield. Parker Gray is Dilgan, the young scribe who revels in the technological shift from cuneiform tablets to Aramaic on leather and dreams of revolution. (Bynane and Gray reprise their roles from the SparkFest staged reading.) Ahmad Kamal is the Administrator who, like all administrators, never lets you know exactly where his sympathies lie.

The play is perfectly paced, with Bynane and Gray handling both the comedic and tragic elements of the script with ease. Gray, in particular, is a gifted comedic actor, while Bynane can evoke a host of emotions with a simple lift of an eyebrow and twist of the mouth. And Kamal is just greasy enough that you never quite believe what his bureaucrat is saying.

Image © Trustees of the British Museum

Elias was inspired to write The Handless King after he saw a relief carving on an Assyrian stele from 728 BCE. (I told you to remember it!) The carving depicts two scribes, one writing in cuneiform on a clay tablet while the other writes in Aramaic on a piece of leather or papyrus. A chance viewing of an ancient carving led to a play with very modern overtones. “Having The Handless King in SparkFest was a utopic theater moment for me and is the reason this play exists,” Elias said. “The incredible direction of Jay Duffer, the artistic vision of Kathleen Culebro, and the cast and crew lifted this play up and made it what it is now. It’s a dream come true to bring it to life in a production at Amphibian and get to continue the work with Jay. It feels like the play is coming home.”

The Handless King runs through August 18 at Amphibian Stage. Please note that the play contains cursing, references to violence, stage blood, and brief partial nudity. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to https://amphibianstage.com/shows/the-handless-king/

The post A Question for the Ages first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Miss Molly is an homage to Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, offering the same humor and charm of Wilde’s work while incorporating modern references and exploring queer themes (an act punishable by law during Wilde’s lifetime). This new comedy comes from Christine Carmela and will be directed by Evan Michael Woods, two TCU alumni who were roommates when Carmela first drafted Miss Molly. Since graduating, Carmela made her Off-Broadway debut at SoHo Repertory Theatre and has accrued 6.4 million likes on TikTok – all while gaining her Masters in Screenwriting from the University of Southern California. While Woods is known as a multidisciplinary theatre artist in DFW, Miss Molly marks his directorial debut. Christine tells us why she and Evan make the perfect team.

Scenic Design & Rendering by Paige Hathaway; Costume Design & Renderings by Aaron Patrick DeClerk

“To have Miss Molly premiere in any other city, at any other theatre, with any other director would feel blasphemous. DFW has always been an artistic home for me; it’s where I started my career as a writer and performer. Before USC and Off-Broadway, Amphibian was the first professional theatre to give me a chance when they hosted a staged reading of one of my early plays. There is not a single director better suited to bring Miss Molly to life than the person who lived in the room next door to me for most of my time in DFW, whom I consider a go-to collaborator, confidant, and friend,” says Carmela.

The ties to Texas Christian University don’t stop with Carmela and Woods. Not only are there several other “Horned Frog” cast and creative members, but Amphibian Stage was founded in 2000 by a group of freshly graduated Theatre TCU students. Now, 25 years later, seasoned playwright and Artistic Director Kathleen Culebro is offering her stage to a new voice from her alma mater. ”It’s a thrill to welcome Christine and her hilarious romp of a play to our stage. I couldn’t be prouder of my fellow Horned Frog, who is clearly about to become a huge sensation. Her talent is undeniable. If you like funny, fast-paced, sexy plays with gorgeous period costumes then this is the play for you.”

Logan Graye, Brayden Raqueño, and Luke Atkison make up the rest of the TCU grads involved in Miss Molly. Logan Graye, a New-York based performer, will play Genevieve Houseington. Brayden Raqueño, a Los-Angeles based performer, will play Aloysius Thurston. Graye and Raqueño were both in the first staged reading of Miss Molly at TCU in 2018. Luke Atkison, a Florida-based designer, performer, and drag artist, will act as the lighting designer.

(First Staged Reading at TCU, Fall 2018. Current Miss Molly team members pictured: First Row Left, Brayden Raqueño | Right of Raqueño (green shirt) Christine Carmela | First Row Right, Logan Graye | Top Row, Second from Right (Teal Jacket) Evan Michael Woods)

Parker Gray, Executive Director of Second Thought Theatre, will play the role of Matthias Manley. Well known Dallas-Fort Worth stage performers Laurel Collins, Shannon McGrann, and Emily Scott Banks will play the roles of Baroness Ella Manley, Baroness Bertha Thurston, and Viscountess Petunia Houseington, respectively. Aaron Patrick DeClerk, a DFW-based costume designer known for his work with Trinity Shakespeare Festival, will act as costume designer. DC based (and DFW native) Paige Hathaway will design the set. Nicole Alvarez, who recently worked on Broadway production of the Pulitzer-Prize winning play Fat Ham, will design wigs and hair. Patrick Emile, a DFW-based sound designer known for work with BBC, Aivson Young, and Benjamin Moore, will design sound.

The post World Premiere of New Play by TCU Alumna at TCU-Founded Theater first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

This year, the 14-day event focused on MENASA (Middle Eastern/North African/South Asian) culture, bringing together 68 playwrights, directors, musicians, actors, and other creatives from across the country. On June 10th, the North Texas theater announced the results of the 1st Annual Acting Competition.

From L to R: Ari Derambakhsh, Haneen Arafat Murphy, Victoria Nassif, Jamie Rezanour, Christian Tannous. Photo and Illustration by Evan Michael Woods

Victoria Nassif, the Austin-raised SMU alumni who walked away with a $5000 cash prize, is a Chicago-based Lebanese, Palestinian, and American performer, intimacy director, and narrator. Her work has been seen across the globe at places like The New Victory Theater, The Kennedy Center, American Players Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Great River Shakespeare Festival, Constellation Stage & Screen, TheatreSquared, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, Playhouse Square, Arts Center at NYUAD, and FringeArts, to name just a few.

Second place winner, Jamie Rezanour, also an SMU alumni, won $4000. She is a native Texan of Iranian descent from Houston, currently living in New York City. Regionally, she has performed at theaters such as Dallas Theater Center, Hartford Stage, Cincinnati Playhouse, The Guthrie, and Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Her TV credits include: The Blacklist, Bull, Blindspot, and a recurring role on Blue Bloods. Haneen Arafat Murphy won $3000 by placing third in the competition. Born and raised in Fort Worth, she began her career as a dancer in the pre-professional program at Texas Christian University. Drawn to broadcast media, she moved to New York and was among the founding program directors at Sirius Radio. Her national campaigns as a voice actor include Pringles, Delta, Walmart and Ford. Her most recent stage work includes the debut season of American Fast (Constellation Stage).

Houston-based Finalist Christian Tannous won “Audience Favorite” and $1000. The fifth finalist was Ari Derambakhsh, who received $500. The competition was judged by four influential industry professionals from outside of Texas; Taylor A. Blackman, performer, writer and professor based in New York City; Spencer Gualdoni, a casting agent with Tara Rubin Casting based in New York City; Kate Moore Heaney, an arts leader and freelance director based in New York City; and Sharifa Yasmin, a playwright and stage director based in Providence, Rhode Island. Semi-finalists included Lois Abdelmalek, Savannah Elayyach, Ahmad Kamal, Andrew Nicolas, and Mariana Saba. The ten actors in the competition were selected from over 140 submissions.

SparkFest 2023 was made possible by generous grants from the Texas Commission on the Arts, Arts Fort Worth, and Fort Worth Promotion and Development Fund.

The post Texas Talent Sweeps National Acting Competition first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

A stand-up comic residency is a way for stand-up comics to work on their material. It’s informal and intimate and a great way to get your recommended daily belly laughs in. (Okay, I made up that last one, but seriously, these are great!)

Amphibian has two stand-up comic residencies coming up, so be sure to get your tickets now! Speaking of tickets, click here to read about Amphibian Stage’s radical new approach to ticket prices.

Baron Vaughn
March 9 -11

Netflix’s Grace & Frankie star Baron Vaughn returns to Amphibian Stage for the third time since creating the residency series back in 2017. After starting this unique opportunity for stand-up artists, many big-name comedians–including Aparna Nancherla, Phoebe Robinson, River Butcher and Sasheer Zamata–have come through Amphibian Stage.

Phoebe Robinson
March 23 – 25

HBO’s 2 Dope Queens Phoebe Robinson returns to Amphibian Stage after a sold-out residency in 2019! While Robinson is best known for her work as a comedian and performer, she is also a New York Times bestselling author and acclaimed producer. She sold out five nights in 2019 and will return for three in 2023.

Amphibian Stage 2023 Season At A Glance

• Spaceman (Main-Stage Play): February 10 – March 5
• Baron Vaughn (Stand-Up Comic Residency): March 9 -11
  • Returning after Sold-Out 2017 Run
• Phoebe Robinson (Stand-Up Comic Residency): March 23 – 25
  • Returning after Sold-Out 2019 Run
• Baba (Main-Stage Play): April 21 – May 7
• Sarah Schaefer (Stand-Up Comic Residency): May 16-18:
• SparkFest: June 1 – 17
• Miss Molly (Main-Stage Play): July 21 – August 13
  • World Premiere
• Gabe Mollica (Stand-Up Comic Residency): September 5 – 9
• The Visit (Main-Stage Play): October 20 – November 12
  • In Partnership with UTA Department of Theatre and Dance

The post Comics Making Laughs in March first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Spaceman follows Molly Jennis’s solo mission to Mars after her husband’s failed, tragic attempt at the same journey. Aaron Grunfeld’s review of the original production at Loading Dock Theatre remarked that Spaceman “…is a masterpiece of science fiction..it imparts that classic sense of wonder, marveling at humanity’s potential and the courage that drives our endeavors. If it should come to your city, see it.” When Amphibian Stage Co-Artistic Director Jay Duffer reached out to Leegrid about producing Spaceman, Stevens revealed how apt it was that the play would be presented in DFW, specifically at Amphibian Stage.

Sarah Rutan, playing the lead role of Molly Jennis, photographed by Evan Michael Woods

“My mother-in-law is a native Fort Worther and has attended several productions at Amphibian Stage. Like a dutiful mother-in-law, she suggested I submit a play to Amphibian as ‘they’re real good.’ Well, I listened to her for once and here we are! My wife grew up in Keller and we return to Fort Worth once or twice a year. I am thrilled that Spaceman is taking flight again, with a new team, in our second home,” playwright Leegrid Stevens. This will be the first US production since the world premiere at New York City’s Loading Dock Theatre in 2019.

Jay Duffer, Co-Artistic Director (and Director of the organization’s highest selling productions) will direct. David Lanza, sound designer behind Amphibian Stage’s surround sound audio production of The Tragic Life and Triumphant Death of Julia Pastrana, the Ugliest Woman in the World, will bring the richly textured soundscape of our galaxy to Spaceman. Sarah Rutan, star of sold-out 2019 production Babette’s Feast, will play Molly Jennis. Jeff Ararat (Dexter: New Blood) will play Harry Jennis and Meagan Harris (Neon Days) will understudy Molly Jennis.

Spaceman – February 10 – March 5

By Leegrid Stevens Directed by Jay Duffer

Cast & Creative Team

CREATIVE TEAM

• Director: Jay Duffer
• Assistant Director: Evan Michael Woods Scenic Designer: Jeff Stanfield
• Sound Designer: David Lanza
• Assistant Sound Designer: Jorge Guerra Original Sound Designer: Leegrid Stevens Lighting Designer: Jason Monmaney Projection Designer: Philip Villar Costume Coordinator: Kathleen Culebro Production Stage Manager: Kaitlin Hatton Bella Barnett: Scenic Artist
• Master Electrician: Landry Strickland Crew: Leo Vibal

CAST

• Molly Jennis: Sarah Rutan
• Harry Jennis: Jeff Ararat
• Molly (U/S): Meagan Harris

Amphibian Stage 2023 Season At A Glance

• Spaceman (Mainstage Play): February 10 – March 5
• Baron Vaughn (Stand-Up Comic Residency): March 9 -11
  • Returning after Sold-Out 2017 Run
• Nore Davis (Stand-Up Comic Residency): March 16 – 18
• Phoebe Robinson (Stand-Up Comic Residency): March 23 – 25
  • Returning after Sold-Out 2019 Run
• Baba (Mainstage Play): April 21 – May 7
• SparkFest: June 1 – 17
• Miss Molly (Mainstage Play): July 21 – August 13
  • World Premiere
• Gabe Mollica (Stand-Up Comic Residency): September 5 – 9
• The Visit (Mainstage Play): October 20 – November 12
  • In Partnership with UTA Department of Theatre and Dance

The post Amphibian Stage Sends a Woman to Mars first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Patrons will have several different prices to choose from when they return for the 2023 Season. Each programming series will have 3-4 price points, with Main Stage Productions and Stand-Up Comedy starting at $15, other special events starting at $10, and ranging upward to $60. This new model eliminates discounted Thursday performances and all promotional ticket prices. Main Stage Pay-What-You-Want Preview Performances and Opening Weekend pricing will remain in effect.

Amphibian Stage Staff, From L to R: Jeff Stanfield, Technical Director; Kathleen Culebro, Artistic Director; Evan Michael Woods, Marketing Manager; Ayesha Ganguly, Development and Community Outreach Manager; Jay Duffer, Co-Artistic Director
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

When asked about this bold change, Artistic Director Kathleen Culebro gave more insight into the decision. “Some of my favorite projects at Amphibian Stage have been offered entirely for free. These include the short film This is My Story and the newly released augmented reality art walk, Neighborhood Leap. These projects, like our arts outreach initiatives, are accessible to all–even those who might not have the means to buy a full-price ticket to one of our traditional offerings. This new pricing model is our way of breaking down barriers to live theatre and taking steps to welcome all. Money should not prevent anyone from enjoying the healing effects of the arts. ”

Co-Artistic Director Jay Duffer clarifies the intent of each level. “The Low-Cost ticket is designed for those who don’t have the financial freedom at that moment to commit to a Standard or Discounted ticket. The Discounted ticket is a bridge between the Low-Cost and Standard offer. The Pay-It-Forward Ticket is priced above the Standard ticket for those who may have the means to pay a little extra to help us offset the difference of the Low-Cost and Discounted tickets. It is not our intent to judge or police a patron’s ticket level choice. We know our patrons will choose the level that is right for them. We’re just excited to bring more people in the door by lowering the barrier.”

Patron Experience Manager Alyssa Peters at the Amphibian Stage Box Office
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

Other theatre companies outside of DFW have also taken to similar unexpected ticketing models. Amphibian Stage notes taking inspiration from Know Theatre of Cincinnati, whose tickets range from $15-40, featuring a similar “Low-Cost Admission Option” available for all performances. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company in Washington D.C. learned from their successful “Pay What You Will” preview performances that they could expand this concept by offering a number of PWYW tickets for each performance.

Tiered Ticket Prices for 2023 Season by Series

• Main Stage General Admission: $15, 25, 40, 60
• Stand-Up Comic Residency General Admission: $15, 22, 30
• National Theatre Live General Admission: $10, 15, 20, 25
• SparkFest General Admission: $10, 15, 20, 25

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The 12-month lineup of never-before-seen theatrical experiences and bold programming all serve to champion the nonprofit’s mission to build a community of artists and patrons who can unite through thought-provoking performing arts. Every selection in 2023 will offer audiences a space to engage with the material long after the lights go down. The main-stage season explores the perplexing, difficult, but crucial need for human connection in vastly different settings: a rocket ship to mars, a US Immigration office, Victorian England, and a run-down German town. In March, the Stand-Up Comic Residency will place three prominent Black comedians in the spotlight. And SparkFest, in its third year, will celebrate and amplify voices that often go unheard.

Amphibian Stage maintains their commitment to work in partnership with artists in the creation of new work-from development to production. The Main Stage season features a provocative world premiere and two plays that will have their first professional staging since they were originally conceived. Amphibian Stage is working directly with the writers to develop a new approach to designing and directing these works. This year’s SparkFest will center around a community often underrepresented on U.S. stages in an effort to better acquaint the theatre industry at large with Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian (MENASA) artists. This festival, like the whole season, will demonstrate the effect new work can have on the future of performing arts.

Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

“For years I’ve dreamed of hosting an acting competition that would not only reward actors for their years of training and experience, but that would also allow audiences to see the brightest Texas talent. There is a perceived absence of MENASA talent in the area, and this further limits the opportunities available to them. By showcasing them, we hope to introduce artistic leaders to more actors and thus encourage all of us to include their stories in our seasons.” -Kathleen Culebro, Amphibian Stage Artistic Director

Amphibian Stage 2023 Lineup

Main Stage Plays

Spaceman

February 10 – March 5
By Leegrid Stevens

Directed by Jay Duffer

The first production of 2023 is a full-sensory, surround-sound expedition into outer space. Spaceman follows Molly Jennis’s solo mission to Mars after her husband’s failed, tragic attempt at the same journey. Aaron Grunfield’s review of the original production at Loading Dock Theatre remarked that Spaceman “…is a masterpiece of science fiction..it imparts that classic sense of wonder, marveling at humanity’s potential and the courage that drives our endeavors. If it should come to your city, see it.” When Amphibian Stage Co-Artistic Director Jay Duffer reached out to Leegrid about producing Spaceman, Stevens revealed how apt it was that the play would be presented in DFW, specifically at Amphibian Stage.

“My mother-in-law is a native Fort Worther and has attended several productions at Amphibian Stage. Like a dutiful mother-in-law, she suggested I submit a play to Amphibian as ‘they’re real good.’ Well, I listened to her for once and here we are! My wife grew up in Keller and we return to Fort Worth once or twice a year. I am thrilled that Spaceman is taking flight again, with a new team, in our second home.” -Playwright Leegrid Stevens

This production will be the first since the world premiere at New York City’s Loading Dock Theatre in 2019.

Baba

April 21 – May 7

By Denmo Ibrahim

Directed by Hamid Dehghani

After Spaceman, Amphibian Stage travels back to Earth: 1980, New York City US Office of Immigration specifically. Baba chronicles the tender, funny, and complex relationship between a newly-immigrated father and his US-born daughter. Freedom and family collide when Mohammad’s search for the American dream leads Layla on a quest home to Egypt thirty years after the story begins. Playwright and performer Denmo Ibrahim developed Baba as a solo performance for herself, portraying both Mohammed and Layla. Ibrahim is elated to see Baba take new meaning with a new cast and creative team.”I’m thrilled to see BABA reimagined from a solo performance to a two-person, fully-realized play. In Amphibian Stage’s production, the story transforms beautifully from a daughter grappling with her father’s memory to a father and daughter’s longing for home. The play received its world premiere a decade ago and considering what our country has endured these last 10 years, BABA now has become ever more timely. I can’t wait to share this story for the first time with audiences in Fort Worth.” – Playwright Denmo Ibrahim

Miss Molly, A Marital Deceit of Honest Intentions

July 21 – August 13

WORLD PREMIERE

By Christine Carmela

Directed by Evan Michael Woods

The summer play offering will take audiences to Victorian England with a twist. Miss Molly is an homage to Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest offering the same humor and charm of Wilde’s work while incorporating modern references and exploring queer themes (an act punishable by law during Wilde’s lifetime). This new comedy comes from Christine Carmela and will be directed by Evan Michael Woods, 2 TCU alumni who were roommates when Carmela first drafted Miss Molly. Since graduating, Carmela made her Off-broadway debut at SoHo Repertory Theatre and has accrued 6.2 million likes on TikTok–all while studying for her Masters in Screenwriting from the University of Southern California. While Woods is known as a multidisciplinary theatre artist in DFW, Miss Molly marks his directorial debut. Christine tells us why she and Evan make the perfect team.

“To have Miss Molly premiere in any other city, at any other theatre, with any other director would feel blasphemous. DFW has always been an artistic home for me; it’s where I started my career as a writer and performer. Before USC and Off-Broadway, Amphibian was the first professional theatre to give me a chance when they hosted a staged reading of one of my early plays. There is not a single director better suited to bring Miss Molly to life than the person who lived in the room next door to me for most of my time in DFW, whom I consider a go-to collaborator, confidant, and friend.” – Playwright Christine Carmela

The Visit

October 20 – November 12

By Friedrich Dürrenmatt, Adapted by Maurice Valency*

Directed by Jay Duffer

In partnership with University of Texas at Arlington Department of Theatre and Dance

*Rights pending

Just in time for Fall, Amphibian Stage will close their Main Stage season with a darkly comic tale from prolific German writer, Friedrich Dürrenmatt. The Visit tells the story of a wealthy philanthropist returning to her hometown to save it from financial ruin…but the money comes with a deadly request that will test the morals of the town’s inhabitants. This larger-than-life classic will be brought to the stage in partnership with the University of Texas at Arlington’s Theatre faculty and students.

“We’ve had the opportunity over the last several years to have Amphibian’s Co-Artistic Director Jay Duffer share his directing expertise with UTA’s junior and senior theatre majors in the Directing I course. The opportunity to now further collaborate with this professional union theatre is a critical next-step for both faculty and students. Working in partnership with Amphibian on The Visit will provide a conduit for real-world application where students will work alongside area professionals (including our design faculty) towards a commercial production. We are thrilled!” -Dr. Anne Healy, Chair of Department of Theatre Arts & Dance at the University of Texas at Arlington

Amphibian Stage Staff, From L to R: Jeff Stanfield, Technical Director; Kathleen Culebro, Artistic Director; Evan Michael Woods, Marketing Manager; Ayesha Ganguly, Development and Community Outreach Manager; Jay Duffer, Co-Artistic Director
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

Stand-Up Comic Residency*

Baron Vaughn

March 9 -11

Grace & Frankie star Baron Vaughn returns to Amphibian Stage for the third time since creating the residency series back in 2017. After starting this unique opportunity for stand-up artists, many big-name comedians–including Aparna Nancherla, Phoebe Robinson, River Butcher and Sasheer Zamata–have come through Amphibian Stage.

Nore Davis

March 16 – 18

Amphibian Stage veteran Phoebe Robinson personally acquainted Nore Davis with the comic residency. You’ve seen Davis’ comedy on Comedy Central, Prime Video, The Tonight Show, Conan, and acting in hit shows Boardwalk Empire, Succession, and Dickinson. This is Nore’s first time performing at Amphibian Stage!

Phoebe Robinson

March 23 – 25

2 Dope Queens Phoebe Robinson returns to Amphibian Stage after a sold-out residency in 2019! While Robinson is best known for her work as a comedian and performer, she is also a New York Times bestselling author and acclaimed producer. She sold out five nights in 2019 and will return for three in 2023.

Gabe Mollica: Deductible

September 2023 (Exact Dates TBA)

Special Stand-Up Comic Residency

After Miss Molly closes in August, Comedian Gabe Mollica is developing a stand-up set that straddles the line of theatre and comedy. This is not the first stand-up residency to balance these two mediums; Jacqueline Novak ironed out Get On Your Knees at Amphibian Stage before it arrived Off-Broadway to critical acclaim (featured in “The New York Times Best of Theatre and Best of Comedy” in 2019). Gabe comes to Fort Worth after an extended run of his debut set Solo at Soho Playhouse in Manhattan. His new project, Deductible, takes aim at the US healthcare system.

Gabe Mollica’s dates will be announced in early 2023. 3 more residencies expected in 2023. Comedy lineup is subject to change.

Spark Fest: June 1-17

This summer, the annual performing arts festival SparkFest returns to the Near Southside for the third time – and it’s bigger than ever! SparkFest 2023 will introduce a Texas-wide “Van Cliburn Festival” style acting competition with $18,000 in cash prizes for the finalists. The competition will be limited to MENASA actors and artists.

“For years I’ve dreamed of hosting an acting competition that would not only reward actors for their years of training and experience, but that would also allow audiences to see the brightest Texas talent. There is a perceived absence of MENASA talent in the area, and this further limits the opportunities available to them. By showcasing them, we hope to introduce artistic leaders to more actors and thus encourage all of us to include their stories in our seasons.” -Kathleen Culebro, Amphibian Stage Artistic Director

The remainder of the festival will focus on the development and showcasing of new plays, supplemented by other engaging events. In 2021 and 2022 SparkFest included Light up the Runway (a Project Runway-style fashion show), a puppetry workshop, a comedy workshop for beginners workshop, stand-up comedy performances, and much more. Details on the acting competition and festival lineup will be announced in early 2023.

The post Amphibian Stage Goes Global in 2023 first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Irving and his awe-inspiring tales are best known as some of the first works of fiction in the United States. His writings laid the foundation for some of the world’s most popular authors, including Charles Dickens, Mary Shelley, Edgar Allen Poe, and Stephen King. In perfect timing with the spooky season, Amphibian Stage will transform their Black Box theater into Irving’s eerie world, bringing the lore to life through ghostly stories and astonishing magical elements that underscore the 90-minute theatrical experience.

THE HOLLOW John Rapson (Writer_Actor)
Courtesy of Evan Michael Woods

At the heart of The Hollow is an homage and exalting of Washington Irving’s vast and sadly forgotten influence on the literary world. Literary lovers can dive deep into this exploration of the man often cited as the father of American Fiction. This new world premiere brilliantly weaves traditional text with new imaginings creating an entry point for curious contemporary audiences.

When asked about the importance of bringing this production to North Texas audiences, Amphibian Stage Founder and Artistic Director Kathleen Culebro said, “Amphibian Stage is honored to welcome this outstanding talent to Fort Worth for the second world premiere this season! Viewers will be blown away by this reimagining of Irvin’s stories. Irving was one of the country’s first creative voices, and it’s fitting that today’s leading visionaries would choose to tell his stories. It’s a rare gift to see fiction come full circle from early 19th-century literature to the 21st-century stage. The Hollow offers creative insight into two brilliant men [Irving and Rapson] centuries apart and shows Irving’s work still has relevance today. We’re thrilled to invite North Texas audiences to experience this humorous and frightful production – closing the season on an eerie note.”

Left – Jeremy Landon Hays (Director)
Right – John Rapson (Writer_Actor)_
Photo by Evan Michael Woods

The stellar creative team includes nationally recognized actor, producer, singer, and writer Jeremy Landon Hayes. Hayes, who is directing the production, has developed work for Broadway and acted in television, film, and stage. Together with playwright John Rapson, the duo propelled Irving’s work into the 21st Century, conceiving theatrical illusions and surprises that will accentuate the storytelling and have guest questioning their own senses. This uncanny experience is made possible by NYC-based designer Caite Hevner who designed the sets and projection. Her designs have been seen on Broadway, off-Broadway, across the United States, and internationally. Joining the superb team are Tony Award-winning Costume Designer Gregg Barnes and beloved local theater professional Joel Ferrel as producer, who’s directed and choreographed extensively around the country (including FW and Dallas).

The Hollow re-acquaints us with the prolific creator of America’s earliest ghost stories; Washington Irving. Our narrator spins Irving’s tales into vivid light…only to find himself entangled in his own web of paranormal terrors. John Rapson’s new stage adaptation of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” brings horror and humor in equal measure, up close and in person in a new Halloween tradition.

Olivia King, John Rapson
Photo by Evan Michael Woods

In collaboration with visionary creatives such as Tony Award-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes (Kinky Boots, Mean Girls, The Drowsy Chaperone) and Broadway scenic/projection designer Caite Hevner (Derren Brown: Secret, In Transit), this chilling one-act play will have you watching your back long after the lights go down.

Showtimes: October 12 – November 6

• Wednesday & Thursday, October 12 & 13: Pay What you Want Previews
• Friday, October 14: $100 (Special Opening Weekend Event; Catered Reception)
• Saturday, October 15: $60 (Special Opening Weekend Event; Catered Reception)
• Sunday, October 16, $40 (General Admission with Catered Reception)
• Thursday, 8 pm curtain: $25 per ticket
• Friday, 8 pm curtain: $40 per ticket
• Saturday, 8 pm curtain: $40 per ticket
• Sunday, 2 pm curtain: $40 per ticket

General admission tickets can be purchased by visiting amphibianstage.com or calling the box office at 817.923.3012.

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