Category: Performing Arts


ECC Theatre’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Auditions are Nov. 13-14


October 27, 2023 | Campus News Performing Arts Theatre

Auditions for the East Central College Theatre’s Department’s performance of the beloved Disney classic, “Beauty and the Beast” are just around the corner.

On Monday, Nov. 13, and Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 6:30 p.m. in the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center, the Theatre Department will be seeking the perfect fit for the roles of Belle, Beast, and their unforgettable friends.

This magical story will be brought to life on stage in this reimagined production running Feb. 22-25, 2024.

Tickets go on sale Monday, November 20 at ecctheatre.com.

“We are excited to bring the magic of ‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’ back to ECC,” said Grace Austin, ECC Theatre Director. “We produced the regional premiere of this show over 15 years ago and sold out every performance.”

There will be 35-45 actors aged 15 and older who will be cast, as well as a small group of youth actors ages 9-14.

Audition selections are available at ecctheatre.com. Anyone trying out is instructed to prepare one of the audition selections. A pianist will be available during auditions.

Everyone auditioning should bring a list of any scheduling conflicts up to February 2024.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our student and local talent to be a part of a truly enchanting show that has captivated audiences for generations. We encourage everyone with a passion for theater to come out and audition,” Austin added.

“Beauty and the Beast” is a tale as old as time that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. This timeless story of love and transformation features memorable characters, dazzling musical numbers, and a captivating storyline that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

To find additional information about auditions, including character breakdowns and rehearsal schedules, visit ecctheatre.com. Stay updated on audition-related news and announcements by following ECC Theatre (@ecctheatre) on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.


Theatre Department to Perform ‘Godspell’ July 20-23


July 14, 2023 | Campus News Performing Arts

The East Central College Theatre Department will present its summer musical, “Godspell,” Thursday, July 20, through Sunday, July 23.

This fun-filled musical is a modern and contemporary retelling of the “Book of Matthew,” and it is billed as a “celebration of music, mime, comedy and slapstick.”

The show is directed by John Anglin with musical direction by Dean Emmert, choreography by Bethany Herron, and stage management by Emma Blaha.

Performances are July 20-22 at 7:30 p.m. and July 23 at 2 p.m. in the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center in Hansen Hall.

The talented cast includes CJ Satterfield (Jesus), Jeff Satterfield (John the Baptist/Judas), Stephen Casey (Jeffrey), Melissa Fyr (Robin), Sarah Hopp (Sonia), Bethany Herron (Gilmer), Ethan Mann (Lamar), Grace Sellers (Joanne), Crystal Smith (Peggy), and Andy Wanager (Herb).

The musical was conceived and originally directed by John-Michael Tebelak with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The production is licensed by Music Theatre International.

To order tickets, visit www.ecctheatre.com. For questions regarding tickets, contact the Box Office at 636-584-6693 or boxoffice@eastcentral.edu.


Season: Unlimited poster

ECC Theatre Department Reveals 2023-24 Productions


May 22, 2023 | Campus News Performing Arts Theatre

The East Central College Theatre Department will present five productions during the 2023-24 season that will raise the audience experience to new heights.

The “Season: Unlimited” performances will showcase the amazing talent of the cast, crew and creative team, which will result in a dynamic live atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

The first production, “She Kills Monsters,” is a fantasy adventure about a young woman who discovers her deceased sister’s Dungeons and Dragons notebook. This production will run Oct. 5-8 and promises to be a thrilling experience for audiences of all ages.

ECC Theatre Director Grace Austin will direct the production, with choreography by Erik Kuhn, stage combat instructor.

Next up is, “Inspecting Carol,” a hilarious holiday staged reading that will have audiences laughing from start to finish.

“In an exciting twist, the actors in ‘Inspecting Carol’ will not receive scripts until 48 hours before the show, and the audience will choose the parts the performers play,” Austin added. “This unique approach promises to create a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience for both the actors and the audience.”

“Inspecting Carol” will be presented in early December.

2024 Performances

Audiences will have to wait until Aug. 14 before the name of the first production in 2024 can be released.

“Due to contractual requirements, we cannot announce the title of our musical, but we are bursting with excitement to bring this giant show to our stage — with unforgettable songs and a story that will capture the hearts of audiences of all ages,” Austin said. “Trust us, it’s worth the wait.”

The musical will be performed Feb. 22-25, 2024, including a daytime matinee Friday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m.

“The One Act Play that Goes Wrong,” to be performed April 18-21, 2024, is a fast-paced farce that will leave audiences in stitches. Directed by the award-winning St. Louis artist Will Bonfiglio, this production is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, Austin said.

Finally, the season concludes with “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” a heartwarming musical that brings the beloved characters from the Peanuts comic strip to life. This production is perfect for families and fans of all ages. It will run July 18-21, 2024.

All performances will take place at The John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center at ECC. For more information on “Season: Unlimited” or to learn about auditions, visit ecctheatre.com.


“Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Play” Brings Christmas in July at ECC Theatre


June 8, 2022 | Campus News Performing Arts Theatre

The East Central College Theatre Department will be celebrating “Christmas in July” with its summer production of “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Play.”

The performances will be July 21- 23 at 7:30 p.m. and July 24 at 2 p.m. in the John Anglin Performing Arts Center in Hansen Hall. The show is directed by John Anglin with musical direction by Paula Nolley.

Anglin explained that the show is set in a New You City radio studio. The set is decked out with three large Christmas trees, and much more to bring the holiday season to life this July.

John Anglin and David Sutton are pictured Tuesday, June 7, with a 3D model of the set of “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Play.” The pair worked on the set in the John Anglin Performing Arts Center in Hansen Hall. Anglin is directing the show that he calls “Christmas in July,” and Sutton is a cast member. Sutton has been in performances directed by Anglin spanning five decades. This summer’s show will be July 21- 23 at 7:30 p.m. and July 24 at 2 p.m.

“This is really going to be a great show,” he said. “The whole show is in a radio studio with a lot of sound effects going on — we are going to have a lot of fun.”

The musical was adapted from the 1947 Lux Radio broadcast by Lance Arthur Smith with original songs and arrangements by Jon Lorenz. This heartwarming, family-friendly classic includes live foley effects and jazzy arrangements of holiday carols.

To order tickets, visit www.showtix4u.com/event-details/64911. For questions regarding tickets, contact the Box Office at 636-584-6693 or boxoffice@eastcentral.edu.

Anglin noted that he handpicked the cast members, who he knows will bring a lot of great energy and fun moments to the production.

The cast is: David Sutton, Lydia Clary, Elizabeth Clary, Andrew Clary, George Meyer, Darrell Herron, Bethany Herron, Carol Buescher, Patty Kellmann and Nora Clary.

“It is a great cast of heavy hitters,” Anglin commented. “I have been working with some of the cast members for many years.”

That includes Sutton, who has been on stage in Anglin’s productions spanning five decades.

Anglin added that this production is a family affair, with father and daughter Darrell Herron and Bethany Herron; and four members of the Clary family — Andrew and Elizabeth, and their daughters Lydia and Nora.

Each summer, Anglin selects and directs a show at the College. He said he picked “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Play” based on the script.

“I really like it and I don’t ever do a show I don’t really like,” he said. “If I am going to be thinking about it for a good year, I don’t ever want to do a show that I don’t enjoy.”


ECC Foundation to Hold Patrons Kickoff Event


May 27, 2022 | Campus News ECC Rolla Film and Lecture Series Performing Arts Theatre

Get ready to roll out the blanket and open up the picnic baskets for the East Central College Foundation kickoff of its 2022-23 Patrons of the Arts season.

The Patron’s event will be Thursday, June 9, from 6-8:30 p.m. at Röbller Vineyard & Winery, located at 275 Robller Vineyard Road in New Haven.

There is a fun evening in store for the annual kickoff, including music by the band, “Friends of Aaron,” live art demonstrations by an ECC student, a group art project and more.

Heavy Appetizers and wine will be served during the outdoor event.

The kickoff is an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing evening of great food and music, while taking in some of the best ECC has to offer, according to Bridgette Kelch. executive director of the ECC Foundation.

The Patrons program benefits the art, theater and music departments at the College and provides scholarships, she added.

“We invite the community to help enhance the cultural and artistic life of our area and the students at East Central College by becoming a member of the Patrons of the Arts,” Kelch said.

“The arts have the remarkable ability to inspire imaginations, foster communication, and broaden our minds.”

Sponsorship/membership opportunities are as follows:

Marquee Patron — $4,000+
Includes 10 tickets to all patrons performances and receptions.
Headline sponsorship for a show.

Grand Patron — $2,500+
Includes 8 tickets to all patrons performances and receptions.
Headline sponsorship for a show.

Spotlight Patron — $1,000+
Includes 6 tickets to all patrons performances and receptions.

Premier Patron — $500+
Includes 4 tickets to all patrons performances and receptions.

Front Row Patron — $250+
Includes 2 tickets to all patrons performances and receptions.

Centerstage Patron — $125+
Includes 1 ticket to all patrons performances and receptions.

Understudy Patron — $75+
Includes 1 ticket to half of all patrons performances and receptions.

All opportunities include early bird ticketing. Recognition in Patrons of the Arts promotional materials for Centerstage memberships and above.

For more information, contact Hannah Masek at 636-584-6506 or foundation@eastcentral.edu

More information on the Patron Series can be found at www.eastcentral.edu/performing-arts.

Patron memberships can be purchased at any time. The ECC Foundation is a not-for-profit organization and tax-deductible contributions are under section 501(c)3 of the IRS code.


Date Change for ECC ‘Puffs’ Performance


January 28, 2022 | Campus News Performing Arts Theatre

The East Central College Theatre Department has moved the performance of the Off-Broadway smash hit, “Puffs” to April 21-24.

Theatre Department Director Grace Austin, who is directing “Puffs,” said the decision to reschedule the show from February was made from an abundance of caution.

“This was a difficult choice to make,” she said, “but with COVID cases on the rise and with the hope to have actors unmasked, it was the right choice to keep everyone safe.

“We are thrilled that the entire original cast will be appearing at the April performances.”

“Puffs” was originally slated for performances Feb. 24-27. It now will be performed in April when “Church and State” had been scheduled. “Church and State” will move to next season.

The company of “Puffs” includes ECC Theatre veterans Connor Aubuchon, Dora Bell, Andrew Carter, Johny Cojocaru, Lukus Dement, Mekaela Sanders, Abby Scanlin, Tara Steffens and Sydney Smith.

Also in the cast are newcomers Anne Brock, Ryan Balmer, Joshua Bergin, Jaelyn Bergin, Kaylin Buckingham, Lorelei Edwards, Felicity Enloe, Aiden George, Dominique Harper, Brooklyn Hyatt, Evan Kiriakidis, Ethan Mier, Paige Pelster, Ireland Shortt, Kody Scaggs, Stephen Thompson and Elijah Waters.

“Puffs” tells the story of a familiar seven years at a famous school of magic in an unfamiliar way. Boy wizards, broomsticks and owls abound as our heroes are the “Puffs,” a House long neglected in a certain book series.

Tickets for “Puffs” are on sale now at ecctheatre.com. East Central College will offer both socially distanced and non-socially distanced seating at every performance.

For more information, call Box Office Manager Connor Joyce at 636-584-6693 or visit ecctheatre.com.


ECC Theatre to Hold Auditions for ‘Puffs’


December 16, 2021 | Campus News Performing Arts Theatre

East Central College Theatre will be holding auditions for “Puffs,” the Off-Broadway smash hit in January 2022.

“Puffs” is directed by Grace Austin with choreography by Chris Page Sanders, lighting design by Bess Moynihan, scenic design by Sylvia Sellers, costume design by Carly Uding, prop design by Dora Bell, and puppet design by Skyler Hunt.

For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the “Puffs,” who just happened to be there too. Discover the hilarious and untold story of the “losers” who embrace being badgers and strive to be “third or nothing.”

Auditions will be held Monday, Jan. 3 and Tuesday, Jan. 4 at 6:30 p.m. at ECC and consist of readings from the script. Audition signups are first come, first served and performers only need to attend one night. Callbacks will be held Thursday, Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m.

Performances will be held Feb. 24-27, 2022 in the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center. Rehearsal will occur every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 6:30-9 pm (please bring a copy of any conflicting schedule to auditions. Actors are only called when needed).

We are casting up to 30 actors ages 15+ (most roles are open to all ages and genders).

Rehearsal schedules, character breakdowns, audition readings, COVID protocols, and more can be found at ecctheatre.com. Auditions are open to everyone.

Email questions to Austin at gracemaustin@gmail.com.


College Gifted Steinway Grand Piano


November 23, 2021 | Campus News Music Performing Arts

It was the generosity of an area woman and her connection to East Central College Foundation Patrons of the Arts members that facilitated a historic donation to the ECC Music Department.

The department recently received a 7-foot Steinway and Sons Model B grand piano, which matches a performance piano currently used by students and faculty at ECC.

According to Dr. Jennifer Judd, music professor and program coordinator, this is the first time the college has had two performance pianos the same size, which will greatly benefit instruction and performances.

The Steinway piano was donated by Joan Kerr, of Wildwood, who had inherited the instrument from musician Preston Bowling.

Since she does not play, Kerr felt it would be appropriate to donate it to a worthwhile recipient to honor Bowling.  Her neighbors, who have been ECC Patrons of the Arts members for many years, heard about the instrument and asked Kerr d if she would be willing to donate the Steinway piano to the ECC Music Department.

“It is good to pass the legacy of a wonderful instrument from musician to musician,” Judd said. “We all appreciate her generosity.”

Judd added that the Patrons who helped facilitate the gift to ECC asked to remain anonymous. She added that Patrons of the Arts have been incredibly generous to the college’s music department.

“I would like to thank our Foundation and Patrons of the Arts for their tireless support,” she said.

“All of the other grand pianos in the music department were purchased by contributions from our patrons. ECC patrons play a vital role in the success of our program.”

Students, Teachers Benefit

ECC student Zacharias Sourthard, of Rolla, said he sees great benefits from having matching performance pianos on campus.

“This is a great benefit to the department, and I have found that the piano sounds much richer than others I have practiced on,” he said.

Sourthard added that the opportunity to play on the Steinway piano is a great experience for his future endeavors.  He is slated to graduate in the Spring 2022 with an Associates Degree in Fine Arts with an emphasis in piano.

Sourthard has been accepted to the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, where he will study piano pedagogy — the study of teaching piano.

He said he is still exploring his options to teach after he graduates with a bachelor’s degree, and he ultimately would like to teach piano at a university.

“I aspire to teach music theory and performance,” Sourthard said.

He already is gaining experience in teaching piano at Watson School of Music in St. James where he teaches piano lessons.

“It is giving me the opportunity to start teaching instead of learning second hand,” Sourthard said.

In addition, he also will be the accompanist to solo and ensembles this spring during the Missouri High School Sports and Activities recitals.


Dr. Blackmore Receives Outstanding Adjunct Award


November 19, 2021 | Campus News Music Performing Arts

East Central College music adjunct instructor Dr. Lisa Blackmore recently received a Missouri Community College Association Adjunct Faculty Award.

Blackmore teaches Music History, World Music and trumpet lessons at ECC. She also teaches at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Missouri Baptist University, and plays with the St. Louis Wind Symphony, Compton Heights Band, and many other ensembles.

She is highly respected within higher education institutions and the region’s music community, according to those who nominated her for the MCCA award.

“Dr. Blackmore is a talented artist and a dedicated teacher. She epitomizes excellence as a university professor,” the nomination reads. “She always goes above and beyond to give herself to her students, her colleagues, and the community.

“She fosters positivity, inspiration, and professionalism among those she works with. She serves the college and her students with uncompromising integrity. Her dedication and commitment to her students is exemplary.”

Blackmore regularly attends ECC’s Music Department evening concerts to support her colleagues and her students.

One example of her commitment to educating the next generation is her involvement in the ECC Instrument Petting Zoo Project, which features hands-on experiences with real instruments. Through the project, Blackmore performs and demonstrates instruments for area school children.

“Her technique of introducing the horn instruments by blowing through a seashell demonstrates her ability to immediately engage her student’s attention and make learning music fun.”

A former student testified to the impact Blackmore had on her higher education and life when she said:

“Dr. Blackmore pushed me to be the best I could be, holding me to a high standard of scholarship at the community college I attended, while at the same time always being there with any help she could give.

“She saw me as an individual and encouraged me not to just settle for being average. That prepared me well for my transfer to UMSL (University of Missouri-St. Louis) later,” the student added. “Even now, in a career role as a music school director, I value her professional input, and am privileged to call her both former professor and friend.”​

The MCCA conference was held Nov. 10-12 in Branson.


Auditions to be Held for ‘Classic Mystery Game’


August 6, 2021 | Campus News Performing Arts Theatre

The East Central College Theatre Department has announced the 2021-22 season’s slate of performances, kicking off with “Classic Mystery Game,” a parody of the 1985 movie, “Clue.”

The next step for the department is to hold auditions for the interactive performance that will ask the audience “Whodunit?”

Theatre Department Director Grace Austin said auditions will be held Aug. 25 -26 at 6:30 p.m. in the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center and will consist of scripts readings.

She added that the readings will be available here beginning Tuesday, Aug. 10. Actors will be masked during auditions and rehearsals.

Not a Typical Show

Austin said the “Classic Mystery Game” is not a typical performance because the audience will have a say in the outcome and will be asked to vote on who they think is guilty.

The show will be directed by Bess Moynihan and performances will be held Oct. 7-10. Audience members will be masked and socially distanced.

“We’re hoping to make the experience as normal as possible and we are really encouraging people to come out and support the department,” Austin said.

“We are so grateful for all of the support we had last year for the outdoor theatre and we are really hoping that people want to come and spend time with us indoors this year in a safe manner.”

“Classic Mystery Game,” written by Keating, parodies the movie “Clue,” written by Jonathan Lynn which was based on the game, CLUEDO (known as Clue in North America.), created by Anthony E. Pratt.

The show will offer a look at life through the lens of the iconic film, and Clue, the family game night favorite with thrills, spills and, of course- kills.

Roles Available

The following roles are available to any actors age 16 and up:

  • Ms. Scarlet — Female, she’s beautiful, well dressed, opinionated and probably up to something.
    • Col. Mustard-Male, he’s usually confused about… everything.
    • Mrs. White — Female, A heightened sense of drama, she’s dressed for a funeral and suspicious as ever.
    • Prof. Plum — Any gender, equal parts sweet and salty, what is it they teach again?
    • Mrs. Peacock — Female, Over the top and overly chatty with a scream that could cut glass.
    • Mr. Green — Any gender, An uptight square with a questionable career.
    • Yvette — Female- A woman with an impossible French accent and impractical amounts of cleavage.
    • Mr. Boddy — Any gender, the architect of all this madness, or are they?
    • Clown No. 1 — Any Gender, plays The Cook and The Motorist.
    • Clown No. 2 — Any Gender, plays The Cop, The Singing Telegram Girl, and The Evangelist.

More information about auditions can be found here.