The Doings Weekly

Spotlight: People to watch

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John Stiens stars with Christine Jacobs in The Black Ship Co. production of “Foreverendia.” | Photo by Sean Howlett

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Updated: November 19, 2012 4:05PM

Bye-bye Bellie: Circle Theatre of Oak Park is losing its long-time artistic director. Kevin Bellie is stepping down after leading the company for nine years. A company member for 26 years, Bellie plans to continue working as a freelance director and choreographer. Joe Landvick will take over the artistic reins of the company.

Wonder of wonders: Five talented suburbanites will spend the holiday season waiting for a miracle. Michael Mahler of Oak Park is the composer, lyricist and musical director of “The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey” at Provision Theater Company, Nov. 21-Dec. 23. Steve Martin of Morton Grove plays banjo in the band, and the cast includes Linden Clayboure of Highland Park, Sophie Thatcher of Lake Forest and June Miller of Lake Bluff. Call (312) 455-0066 for reservations.

“Tidings” of joy: The spirited quartet from the popular musical “Forever Plaid” makes a return engagement on earth in “Plaid Tidings” at Theatre at the Center, through Dec. 23, and Ann Davis is facilitating their journey. The Bolingbrook native is the production manager and technical director. Wilmette resident Jamie Martinez plays bass in the band. Call (219) 836-3255 for reservations.

A “Carol”-ing they go: If you’re looking for an Evanston actor between Nov. 17 and Dec. 29, you might start your search at the Goodman Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol.” Evanston residents in the cast include 7-year-old Francesca Mereu, Michael Lindner, Tania Richard and Nora Fiffer, plus musician Malcolm Ruhl. For reservations, call (312) 443-3800.

Boys will be boys: Winnetka native Christine Jacobs is mom to a very adventurous son in Black Ship Co.’s “Foreverendia,” Nov. 28-Dec. 23. The New Trier graduate attended Columbia College Chicago. Call (773) 935-6875 for reservations.

That sinking feeling: “The Christmas Schooner” sets sail with suburban actors at the Mercury Theater. The cast of the touching holiday musical includes Ronald Keaton and Thomas Shea of Evanston, Mark Kosten of Highland Park, Benjamin Parkhill of Wilmette, Sage Harper of Winnetka and Daniel Pass of Highland Park. Scenic design is by Richard and Jacqueline Penrod. For reservations, call (773) 325-1700.





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