BWW Reviews: City Equity Theatre Announces Rebirth

"Change" was the word brought forth by Artistic Director Alan Gardner at the fundraising event for City Equity Theatre last night. Since 2006, when they staged their first show in a downtown storefront, CET has grown and changed often. One thing that hasn't changed is their commitment to presenting critically acclaimed productions. Presenting new plays and breathing new life in to old plays has been CET's trademark. (CET is the only theatre in Birmingham working under an Actors' Equity Association contract.) "Reformation" is the word Artistic Director Jonathan Fuller used in his remarks. Although the company has miraculously always been in the black, it was time for a change in their business model. Partnering with Birmingham Festival Theatre is part of that new plan. The adorable Tom Wofford, the new President of CET, joked that he didn't know he was supposed to bring "a word" to his remarks, but quickly said his would be "renaissance," a rebirth of this important member of Birmingham's art and theatre community.

Last night was a fundraiser with all of the usual things; food, drink and a silent auction. What was different from all of the fundraisers I attend on a regular basis was a staged reading of SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD. Cast with some of the most gifted actors from the area and directed by Jonathan Fuller, it was a fun night. As will happen on a night like this, the actors made a few mistakes that were made hilarious due to the quick wit and improvisation that you can only get with seasoned, talented cast members.

Jonathan Fuller not only directed, but played Oberon in this entertaining offering. Fuller has recently been selected for a Globe Theatre Fellowship. He will travel to England in September to participate in this International Actors' Fellowship as one of only 20 actors selected from around the world. The fellowship includes a showcase performance in the esteemed Globe Theatre.

Also participating in the reading were the talented Leah Luker as Puck, Todd Ponder as Jack Warner, and Patrick Ian McCall as Dick Powell. Standouts to me were husband and wife team Marty Higgenbotham and Ashley Bishop, as well as Jessica Clark. Having only seen Ms. Bishop in a radio format show, I am anxious to see her with her script gone- I think she will be even more amazing! Higgenbotham and Ms. Clark were hysterical and I really hope to see more of them soon!

Another aspect of the event was the announcement of the new season. After almost a year off to regroup and plan, CET has a varied and interesting season ahead. PETER AND THE STAR CATCHER, starring Jonathan Fuller this summer from July 23 - August 16, A STEADY RAIN directed by Alan Gardner in November 2015, THE 39 STEPS in January 2016, and Carson McCullers' THE HEART IS A LONELY HUNTER in May, 2016.

Overall my only complaint about the evening was that there weren't enough people in attendance! We have access to incredible theatre in Birmingham, but none of it can continue without donors, subscribers, ticket sales and support. Go to events, see shows, expand your mind and support this treasure!

For more information call 205-500-2701 or check out cityequitytheatre.org.

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