Tuesday, October 16

ISO Update: Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and Musicians Reach Agreement, Season Resumes Oct. 18-20

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Symphony Society, Inc. and the Indianapolis Musicians, Local #3 of the American Federation of Musicians have reached an agreement. 
Late Monday evening they ratified two contracts – a “bridge” agreement, effective Oct. 16, 2012-Feb. 3, 2013, and the major financial terms of a five-year contract beginning Feb. 4, 2013 and expiring on Sept. 3, 2017.
The agreements are an important component of a new business model for the ISO that includes substantially reduced costs, significant new fundraising efforts by the board, the staff and the musicians, and a more sustainable draw rate on the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Foundation (the endowment). 

The terms of the five-year contract include a salary range of $53,000 in year one to $70,000 in year five and the continuation of healthcare and most pension benefits. Overall, the contract represents $11.5 million in concessions by the musicians, which includes a 32 percent pay cut in the first year. The contract’s final year represents an approximate 10 percent pay cut from the musicians’ current salary. While the musicians have agreed to work eight weeks less than in previous seasons in the first two seasons of the new contract, over the five-year period there will be a 38-42 week performance schedule that maintains the ISO’s classical, pops, family, holiday and summer concert series under the ISO’s artistic leadership of Maestros Krzysztof Urbański and Jack Everly, as well as dynamic new programming created by the ISO’s artists-in-residence, Time for Three.

As a key ingredient to the success of a five-year contract, the ISO and musicians agreed to a short-term contract in order to put the musicians back to work immediately and to permit the $5 million in funding from new donors to be secured. In addition, the ISO will be calling on its community of subscribers, patrons, affiliate group members, major gift and annual fund donors and corporate leaders to rise to the occasion and contribute significantly to the Orchestra’s fundraising efforts by purchasing subscriptions and single tickets, donating to the annual fund, making legacy gifts and sponsoring the ISO’s concerts and educational programs. Only with robust community support will the ISO be successful in raising 50-100 percent more than the $6.5 million it receives each year in annual gifts.

On Thursday, Oct. 18, the first Stella Artois Happy Hour at the Symphony of the 2012-2013 season features the ISO’s dynamic string trio, Time for Three, with the Orchestra. Doors open at 5 p.m. with complimentary food and beverages from local restaurants, and the one-hour performance begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person.

For his return to Indianapolis, Maestro Urbański will open this weekend’s Lilly Classical Series concerts with Olivier Messiaen’s Poèmes pour Mi, featuring American soprano and Indiana University alumna Twyla Robinson. Following intermission, Maestro Urbański will return to lead the Orchestra in Claude Debussy’s La Mer and conclude with Boléro, Maurice Ravel’s beloved dance-inspired masterpiece. The concert on Friday, Oct. 19 begins at 8 p.m., and the performance on Saturday, Oct. 20 begins at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $12 per person.

Patrons who have tickets from previously canceled performances may exchange into this weekend’s performances or another of their choice (excluding special events). Contact the ISO Box Office by calling (317) 639-4300 or iso@indianapolissymphony.org. ISO subscribers may email the ISO at subscriber@indianapolissymphony.org.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her newest column, Infused at GottaGo.us and www.FoodandDrinkDigital.com and as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, in M magazine and these newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Thursday, October 11

Infused: Review: Martin Miller's Gin

“I am on the side of a mountain in Spain and the connection is bad at this end,” proclaimed a British-accented voice on the other end of the phone. “Is your connection any better? Wait, I will be to the bottom in a moment and then we can chat about gin, Iceland and other topics.”

And so began my interview with the super premium Martin Miller’s Gin’s namesake.
The notoriously quirky entrepreneur of the upscale gin was instantly endearing and too interesting to not hold my attention raptly. How often does one get to chat with a Londoner racing daredevil-style down the side of a mountain in Spain while chatting on his cell phone about one of the world’s leading spirits?

Exactly.

Admittedly obsessive compulsive, the charming eccentric is a risk taker (which makes him even more endearing) and a gin and tonic loyalist declaring it the official drink of London. Miller’s gin came about through a desperate need for a high quality gin and tonic in 1999.
Never to do anything in a mediocre fashion, the boutique hotelier took to the task with equal tenacity, refusing to skimp on ingredients or methods. The self-appointed spokesperson for gin drinkers globally opted to utilize a John Dore copper pot (named Angela) made in 1904, and the old-fashioned process of using a single pot as opposed to the more common method of three pots. The botanicals are steeped overnight in spirit to extract every bit of essential oils and flavors. Only the heart of the spirit is retained.

As for the flavor? Well, let’s just say it is also the non gin person’s gin. As a non gin and tonic drinker, this is the most mellow gin I have tasted as of yet. My gin generally comes in the form of a Tom Collins or some other smart cocktail. Below are a couple recipes shared with me by Miller. The floral bouquet makes it tantalizing and the soft texture makes it an understandable choice for those who prefer it with tonic or neat.

How does Miller keep the gin smooth?

Iceland.

Known for the purest water throughout the world, Iceland is popular with those in the know. Miller remains friend to Mother Earth by cutting his company’s carbon footprint by an unthinkable 50 percent. Creating the gin in London, he then transports the spirit to Iceland for addition of the water and only then ships it the remainder of the way to points around the globe.

Bottom Line: Eco-friendly and soft to the palate makes Martin Miller’s gin a friend to all.

Bramble
Glass: Rocks
Method: Build in glass
With crushed ice
Garnish: Blackberry
50ml Martin Miller’s Gin
15ml simple syrup
5ml crème de mure





Wallis Blue
Glass: Martini
Method: Shake ingredients
With cubed ice and strain into glass
Garnish: coat rim of glass by rubbing
lime slice and dipping rim in sugar
40ml Martin Miller’s Gin
20ml Cointreau
20ml Lime Juice
Dash of Blue Food coloring

Images and product sample furnished by Martin Miller's Gin

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Wednesday, October 3

5th Annual Gotta Go Ultimate Gift Guide 2012: Now Accepting Submissions


5th Annual Gotta Go Ultimate Gift Guide 2012

The 5th annual “Gotta Go Ultimate Gift Guide” is quickly coming upon us, sharing holiday and Christmas gift ideas. Nov. 6  is this year's deadline for entries. The list will be published online at GottaGo.us during the week of Nov. 19-23, 2012.
Entries will be selected by a three-judge panel.

Those submitting winning entries will be notified by the email address sent with the entry. Purchasing and contact information should be included with entry, along with bio of product and company. Images should be submitted via email.

Categories

• Wine/spirits/beer

• Food

• Nonfood 

Rules and tips: 

• Entries must be EXACTLY as the consumer would purchase. Ex. gift packs, gift baskets, monthly club items, etc. 

• Submissions must include enough for 3 judges.

• Information for purchasing must be included (website, retail locations, etc.).

• Include social media information (Twitter, Facebook) in email.

• No pornographic, sexual, illegal or hate items will be accepted.

• Entries must be received by 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2012.

• Ship entries to: “Gotta Go” 2960 S. Keystone Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46203
Attn.: Ultimate Gift Guide 2012-Elizabeth J. Musgrave.

• Send all questions to elizabethjmusgrave@yahoo.com.

• Items cannot be returned.

• No monies, by way of donation, fee or otherwise, will be required or accepted by any judge.

Thank you for your interest. We look forward to a variety of gift ideas again this year.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Monday, October 1

Infused Wine Review: Franciscan Estates 2007 Magnificat


When is a wine more than a wine? When you know the history. Or…at least when the winery has a history. I always seem to enjoy a wine when there is more to the effort than a faceless, nameless entity behind it.

Recently Franciscan Estates, Napa Valley, California, sent me their 2007 Magnificat red wine to review and I found the prospect even more enticing after reading the back story of the vineyard and winery. Established in 1973 with producing beginning in 1975, Franciscan’s owner Justin Meyer created the estate’s style of small lot wines.

Magnificat was introduced in 1985 under vintner Agustin Huneeus. It is a Bordeaux-style blend spearheading the Meritage class of wines. All good signs for a red wine lover.

The label reads, “This Meritage shows layered aromas of cassis and plum, with ripe black fruit flavors and hints of vanilla and spice.” Definitely there is the aroma of plum and slight hints of vanilla. More interesting, to me at least, is the spice scent wafting out of the bottle softly in a teasing manner.

Once opened to breathe for a bit and poured, the character of the wine shifted to a deeper layering. First tasting is of the fruit, as expected in a California wine, than a strong finish of tobacco. Not a cigarette tobacco, mind you.

No… it’s more of a high-quality cigar tobacco that conjures up memories (or daydreams) of sitting curled up in a leather wing-back chair in your grandfather’s study. The day outside is damp and grey but you don’t mind because you are in front of a fireplace with nothing else to do all day except enjoy the afternoon and the bottle of Franciscan Estates Magnificat. It’s a good, warm cozy feeling which wraps around you like a well loved quilt.

What type of food would you enjoy with this wine? Something you can linger over without hurry, such as lamb or beef stew. If nibblers are more the meal in mind, tapas of peppery beef bites would pair up nicely.

Music to enhance the experience should be meaningful background tunes. I suggest Bach for classical enthusiasts. For others… a bluesy-jazzy choice such as Billie Holiday or Lena Horne.
Bottom Line: Franciscan Estates Magnificat will conjure up a desire to forget the outside world and stay inside curled  up in a chair beside the fireplace reading great literature.

Winery images and sample by Franciscan Estates
Wine image by E. J. Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave
 is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Monday, September 24

Theater Review: IRT Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Opens 2012-13 Season

In 1886 a gentleman named Robert Louis Stevenson set pen to paper and created characters so intense and a subject so fascinating that it is considered one of the most adapted stories to this day. In fact, the very names of his characters are synonymous with good and evil. Stage and film versions have been successful over the years as good vs. evil continues to captivate audiences' imagination.

Indiana Repertory Theatre, Indianapolis, opens its 2012-13 season with the intellectual thriller, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from Stevenson's novella about split personaties, "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," this stage setting is one of an industrial style.

Set in the plush interiors of London attorney Jekyll's home and on the grittiest of London's back alleyways, IRT puts forth an interesting take on the age-old story. As Hyde, Jekyll's alter ego, takes to his evil actions, we are given insight into the mental makeup via four actors representing the internal struggle.
What some may have found confusing at first, others were able to understand immediately director Risa Branin and Hatcher's intent that nothing is black and white. One doesn't slip into evil in one fell swoop but by degrees, inching toward it with variables and factors weighing in throughout the fall from good.

Ryan Artzberger portrayed Jekyll with great intensity with a parallel performance by Hyde's Kevin Cox. Watching the two personalities battle it out with swift dialogue while the total eclipse was crawling ever closer, made for an intense evening.

The spiral staircase played a significant role in the play itself ~ symbolizing perhaps the depths of evil and heights of goodness?

The lighting, music and choreography all set the tone for a dramatic mental journey giving Stevenson's classic a modern twist.

Bottom Line: IRT's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde sets the standard for all Indianapolis-area theaters this season ~ an absolute must-see.

Images: Zach Rosing

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Friday, September 14

The IRT Honors ISO Tickets During the Next Two Weekends

*Press Release*
Indianapolis -- In an effort to support Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra patrons during contract negotiations, the Indiana Repertory Theatre will honor symphony patrons that hold tickets to cancelled ISO performances.
Patrons can redeem their tickets for any IRT performances through September 23. Shows include Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, The Syringa Tree and The Night Watcher. ISO patrons can call the IRT Box Office at 317-635-5252.

“All of Indianapolis and Central Indiana want a vibrant nonprofit arts community and we very much want to see people continue to come downtown and experience fine performances,” said Steven Stolen, managing director of the IRT. “While the ISO continues to progress and move toward a resolution, we want to encourage their patrons to continue their support of downtown, the arts community and enjoy a first class show at the IRT.”

Visit IRTLive.com or call the IRT Box Office at 317.635.5252.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Sunday, September 9

10 Best Things to do While in Indianapolis for SATW 2012

A few suggestions for the several hundred travel writers in Indianapolis for SATW 2012. Traditions, unique shops and more wait for your discovery and delight.
Below is a list of 10 you don't want to miss. Welcome to Indianapolis!

1) The Canal-With arguably the city's most peaceful scenery, paddle boats and walkways, this three-mile popular spot at White River State Park is the perfect place to go for exercise, photo ops and relaxation.

2) Indiana Repertory Theatre-(400 W. Washington St.) Within steps of many hotels downtown, IRT as locals call it, is currently offering its 2012-13 season opening show Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde which has opened to rave reviews.
3) Teapots n' Treasures-(7 E. Market St.) The very definition of eclectic, this tiny shoppe is still a secret from most and is filled to the rim with fresh teas, a diverse collection of teapots and more.

4) St. Elmo Steakhouse-(127 S. Illinois St.) The world famous shrimp cocktail draws the rich and powerful, celebrities and locals alike to prove they can handle the heat.

5) War Memorials-As the city with the most war memorials outside of Washington D.C., Indy's memorials can be found throughout the downtown area, including along the canal and on The Circle, many within walking distance.

6) The Elbow Room-(605 N. Pennsylvania St.) Hit this place up between 4-7 p.m. for their $5 and under menu, including pulled pork nachos, antipasto/hummus plate and trio dip tray containing Bo-Bo's spicy crab dip.

7) Eiteljorg Museum-(500) W. Washington St.) Quest for the West exhibit (through Oct. 7) features 50 of the nation's top Western artists. Go in time to lunch outdoors overlooking the canal.

8) The Canterbury-(123 S. Illinois St.) Serving authentic high afternoon tea is just one more way the historic hotel sets itself apart. Lush interior and attentive waitstaff make the scones and tea even more luxurious.

9) Mass Ave-For boutique shopping, including Silver in the City,  Mass Ave Wine Shoppe and Mass Ave Toys tucked in between a variety of eateries.

10) Shapiro's Delicatessen-(808 S. Meridian St.) Another world-famous eatery, this one creates sandwiches, including the locals' must-try Reuben sandwich since 1905.

Images: Izzy Evans/The Cnaterbury/IRT

Elizabeth J. Musgrave
 is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Theater Review: Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre: Chicago the Musical

Chicago the musical, one of theater's favorites, returns to the stage in Indianapolis at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre.
Deb Wims portrays Roxie Hart, the dreamer willing to do anything (including murder) to reach star status. Wims' energy and sassy attitude push her normally lovely dance and vocal talents to an even higher level. Breaking away from the usual good-girl roles, Wims' vampish-yet-naive approach to Roxie clawing her way to the top is pure gold as shown in "Roxie."

From the moment Curt Dale Clark glides into view, he takes center stage as that charming, albeit conniving, attorney Billy Flynn. There is something deliciously sly and altogether captivating about Clark's version of the superficial and silky smooth lawyer who wins all of his court cases with a smile, bribes and his powers of persuasion with the media. And of course, a little.. make that a lot... of "Razzle Dazzle," one of Clark's best numbers of the night as a duet with Wims.

Showing off his skills of puppetry persuasion with the press, court of law members and clients, Clark, Wims and company bring down the house with  "We Both Reached for the Gun."

Marisa Rivera brings a slightly softer side to the role of double-murderer Velma Kelly showcasing her vocals and dance skills best in "All That Jazz" and end-of show duet with Wims, "Nowadays."

Alene Robertson as Matron "Mama" Morton draws laughs while Eddie Curry draws empathy from the audience as sap-husband Amos Hart.

Sally Scharbrough, as Liz, lights the stage, sizzling in Chicago once again. Last seen in Actor's Theatre of Indiana's version last season, (review here) Scharbrough stands out again in B&B's production.

You either grow weary of Chicago seemingly every season on some stage in the city or you rush to see the latest take on the Bob Fosse-classic satire of the seedy side of the jazz and post-prohibition era in the Windy City. Either way, this Marc Robin directed ~ Buddy Reeder choreographed combo is one you will add to that glad-I-saw list.

Bottom Line: I will keep this succinct: "Chicago...the Musical" is, by far, one of my all-time favorite Beef and Boards' productions in the six + seasons I have reviewed.

Images: JulieCurryPhotography.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Thursday, September 6

Infused: Book Review: The Smart Guide to Single Malt Scotch Whisky

I was invited to review "The Smart Guide to Single Malt Scotch Whisky" by Elizabeth Riley Bell. I couldn't wait to delve into the intricacies of the libation of Scotland, particularly through the guided hands of the noted leading female voice in the predominantly male field of expertise.

When learning about a new topic/interest, I like to start with words..no great shock I'm sure...and entering the Scotch world to learn, taste (and spit) I find the confusion starts at the very beginning...the name.

Is it Scotch Whiskey or Scotch Whisky?
That's exactly how basic things are for me in the world of whiskey, er...I mean whisky...or do I?

The easiest way to figure out if there is a difference in the actual spirit or whether some folks just don't know how to spell is to ask an expert. Or not.

After researching numerous sources, it all seems to come down to this for me. Whiskey with an 'e' is most traditionally used for American and Irish whiskey(s), while Canadian, Scotch and Japanese whisky(ies) leave the extra vowel out of its spelling. With that said...both spellings have been found on bottles in all countries throughout history and most countries are narrowing down which is preferred. The controversy makes for great conversation while enjoying the liquor, however, which is part of the fun of this drink.

Riley doesn't get that elementary in her manual, it is assumed readers know the difference between the spellings and there are various types of whiskies, and have chosen to enrich their education about Scotch's single malts and blends for the single most important factor: taste.

Throughout the guide, Bell has three sidebars ~ Whisky Lexicon, The Noser Knows and The Distillery Cat's Meow ~ giving helpful terminology, tasting notes and historical facts enhancing the guide immensely.

Starting with the labels, storing malts and cost vs. value in section one, Bell gives great insight to the differences and similarities of the distilleries' names, locations and tastes. Moving into the chapter on tasting, the reader receives step-by-step instruction on the best process to get the most out of the experience.

In section two, the authority then gives detailed tutelage of the whisky-making process, including water choice, barley standards, distilling techniques and maturation and cask choice.
For those not wishing to open a craft distillery, jump past two and read section three detailing Scotland distilleries by geographical standpoint with maps, history and types of offerings available throughout the country and islands. From the well known Glenfiddich and The Glen Livet to the lesser familiar distilleries,
Bell gives intimate insight, tips and history of each with a respectful, yet conversational tone.


In a phone interview, Bell discussed with me the ease of obtaining Scotch nowadays from boutique distilleries ("much easier with internet"), being a female in the early days of the male-dominated world of Scotch ("not difficult at all"), and how do American mixologists rate in knowledge of Scotch?

"As with anything, it varies from place to place," explains Bell. "There are growing opportunities in bars that offer a wide selection of choices, and, often times, there is a mixologist on site who is knowledgeable about them. Also there have been some very exciting things done ~ particularly in the larger cities you see this more often ~ of experimentation done with Scotch cocktails.

"I think American mixologists can hold their own with Scotch. It is certainly a growing field I find that mixologists today  know a great deal more about single malt than they did 20 years ago and we all benefit from that. It's one of the best times as far as availability, quality and opportunity we've seen in the exploration of Scotch whisky."

The author admits she is clearing out and making way for new bottles in her stash by auctioning her own personal collection of decades worth of Scotch in October. The sale will take place at Bonhams 1793 NYC.

For more information on the author and guide, visit WhiskySmartGuide.com or follow her on Twitter @WhiskySmarts

Bottom line: Elizabeth Riley Bell's straight-forward approach, coupled with fun graphics, detailed maps, step-by-step instructions and history make The Smart Guide to Single Malt Scotch Whisky an absolute must for the scotch drinker, maker and collector of all levels.

Review copy and images provided by publisher and Elizabeth Riley Bell.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M and Retired Living magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Saturday, September 1

Actors Theatre of Indiana Announces 2012-13 Season


ATI 2012-13 Season
GYPSY
September 7-30
Based on the 1957 memoirs of the famous striptease artist Gypsy Rose Lee, this piece debuted on Broadway in 1959 starring the legendary Ethel Merman as Mama Rose, the mother who so desperately wanted her daughter to succeed. Written by Arthur Laurents, music by Jule Styne, and lyrics by award-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim, the score contains such classic songs as “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” and “Let Me Entertain You.”

ROUTE 66

October 26-November 18
Take a dollop of "Grease," mix in some "Pump Boys and Dinettes" and add a generous dose of "Forever Plaid" for the high-octane fun of "Route 66." From the sounds of 1950s Chicago and traveling along the “Main Street of America” to the California coast with the surf music of the '60s, this musical revue features “Rock ‘n’ Road” hits including, “Dead Man's Curve,” “King of the Road,” “Little Old Lady from Pasadena,” “Little GTO,” “Fun, Fun, Fun” and many more.

The Musical of Musicals...The Musical!

February 1-24
With book, music and lyrics by Eric Rockwell and Joanne Bogart. Sometimes one musical is not enough! In this comic Off-Broadway satire of musical theatre genres, the same story, “You Must Pay The Rent”, is told five different ways - each in the distinctive style of a different master of the form...Rodgers and Hammerstein (Oklahoma, South Pacific), Stephen Sondheim (Company, Sweeney Todd), Jerry Herman (Hello Dolly, Mame), Andrew Lloyd Webber (Phantom of the Opera, Evita), & Kander and Ebb (Chicago, Cabaret).

My Fair Lady

May 10-19
May 29-June 9
Based on Bernard Shaw's play "Pygmalion," with book, music and lyrics by Lerner and Loewe, "My Fair Lady" is triumphant. With "Wouldn't It Be Loverly?" "I Could Have Danced All Night," "On The Street Where You Live" and "Get Me To The Church On Time" it's no wonder everyone - not just Henry Higgins - falls in love with Eliza Doolittle. Includes a 10-person cast and dueling pianos for this unique version of a classic.

Tickets, directions and schedule are available at ActorsTheatreofIndiana.org.

Images provided by ATI


Reviews by Elizabeth J. Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M and Retired Living magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.