Performer of the week: Aaron Caponigro

Aaron Caponigro. Saying his name is almost enough. There is a spark when
he is on stage. He performs with a sense of patience and openness that is
rare on the improv stage. He'll take whatever comes at him. He'll attack
anything and everything with a sense wonder, acceptance, and unconditional
creativeness. To be in a scene with him is a gift. You know you will be
taken on a magical ride. Aaron, thank you for believing in Hogwash and
helping us believe in our own imaginations.

when did you start performing?

My first performance was in a third grade play. I was an Egyptian Pharaoh.
We got to make our own costumes, so I wore a Burger King crown and my
Sylvester and Tweety pajama gown. I wish that still fit. As Pharaoh, I toted
around and pampered my royal stuffed koala bear, Chaz. And also I exiled the
Jews. I had to, it was in the script. And the Bible. And Moses would never
have parted the Red Sea if I hadn't, and then where would we have been?
Without our biggest musical number, that's where. My karmic punishment for
my actions was that I didn't set foot on a stage again until I joined an
improv group at DePaul University.



what made you want to do hogwash?

I like entertaining people. Children are people too. Sometimes people forget
that. I have been performing for humans of various sizes for the past nine
years. If you made me choose, I'd have to say I like performing for children
more. People come in a close second. I think that's because I feel more like
a child than a people. Good thing Hogwash is for children and people! It's a
show where there really is something for everyone. Even octogenarians.




What was your favorite moment from this past week's show?
I wish I could say it was something one of my very hilarious cast-mates did,
because it was a particularly funny show last week, but it was actually
something during the dance break that reminded me how much fun Hogwash is. A
shy little one-year-old, who'd been watching us intently the whole show, got
up and got jiggy with the whole cast. She was at the age where she
understood a lot of words and phrases, but couldn't quite form them herself.
She wasn't much for suggestions is what I'm saying, but she knew when it was
time to cut loose! Our target audience is a couple years older, but it's
good to remember that you can entertain the youngest of us without having to
dress up in a big green alien suit with a TV in your tummy.



what was your fondest memory performing?


My new favorite performance memory just happened recently! A few weeks ago
my 9-year-old son Jacob came to see Hogwash. He ended up on stage, as an
audience volunteer! I can't say he has a future as a Starbucks barista, but
he loved performing and adding to the story. It will be one of those things
we talk about when I am old and he comes to visit me on the island he's
going to buy me.


who do you most respect/look up to I.E biggest influences?

I have a lot of respect for open-minded individuals with candor. And
firefighters - because I'm not running into a flaming building. As for my
influences, well, they are all over the map and I'm glad for that. As an
amalgamation of everything I've ever done and seen, it helps to take in as
much as possible. Maybe one day my brain will get so big they'll name a
library after it: AARON'S BRAIN'S LIBRARY. I like the sound of that.

Performer of the week : Adam Higgins

The Chicago cast has grown since the spring. Five new members were brought onboard this summer. They jumped right into the rehearsal process gearing up to perform. Adam Higgins is one of these new performers. He approaches every day of Hogwash with unmarked enthusiasm. He is always right there, ready to up in and add a special something to the show. Adam helped open our fall run performing in the first two shows. Adam, thank you for the smiles. You are a pleasure. You are a chickadee with the heart of an ostrich. Thank you.

-What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?

I love how completely ego less the whole ensemble is fully committed to making a great show for the audience.

-When did you start performing with Hogwash?

My first show was August 18^Th. This was the first troupe I auditioned for in Chicago after being here for only a week.

-So far, what has been your most memorable moment?

I've had a great time working with all the different musical directors. I normally shy away from singing, leaving it to those with training and talent, but this whole process has been very support of my off-key warbling, so I've really learned to enjoy the musical elements.

-What was your favorite moment from last week's show?

I think the best part was finally getting the little girl in the audience to give us a suggestion, she was pretty afraid of us until then, but once she opened up it was great.

-Who do you admire?

I admire all artists who don't take themselves too serious, whatever medium they create in. I think Shel Silverstein is a great example of that, he wrote plays, poems, kids books, music for famous performers, but always was able to laugh at himself and what he produced.

Bumbershoot

Hogwash is going to be in Bumbershoot! The performances are at 2:00, on Sunday and 2:30 on Monday at the Center house theater. You will need a pass to get into the theater, so hurry up and get those Bumbershoot tickets! This is the first time Hogwash is going to be at Bumbershoot, and the whole cast and crew are very excited. Come check us out!

Performer of the week: Shelby Jennings

Hogwash is about to open the fall run in Chicago. So much goes into the run. In the end you get to see the actors on stage bringing everything to life. And while it is improv and forever changing before your eyes depending on the imaginations of the audience, there is a brave woman who gets the actors ready for whatever might come their way. That person is Shelby Jennings, the director of Hogwash Chicago. She has been with Hogwash since the get go and brings her knowledge and experience to the show. The show wouldn’t be the same without her. Thank you, Shelby and have a great opening!

-What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?

I enjoy good family humor. Hogwash is a kid’s show, but it is also for adults. I think too often people (myself included) fall back on the dirty humor. This show practices and proves that you can have a fun show with out that. The show offers the family friendly atmosphere and the long-form improv and group work that I love so much.

>-When did you start performing with Hogwash? How has your role changed?

I was a performer in the original cast years ago. I performed at Comedy Sportz and the Lakeshore. Then I moved up to being the director, even though at times I still jump in there. I miss the performance but it has been fun to work and change the show. It is constantly growing and changing.

>-What is your most memorable moment?

Oh, man… there are some I can't mention! But in the first run we were doing a show and Nick Hausman and I were looking for a bad guys. At the old Comedy Sportz space there was a trap door and the bad guys hid in there. So we kept asking where the bad guys were, and this kid jumped on stage and said; " RIGHT HERE!" He threw open the trap door and held up his fists like he was going to punch the bad guys. He didn't want to leave the stage so we kept him there through the rest of the story and at the end I asked if I could marry him instead of Nick and he said, " NO WAY.' Then he ran off stage. It was soooo funny!

>-Who do you admire?

I admire a lot of people. I can't really think of one person whom I admire the most. I do admire in general people who do what they feel they were born to do instead of just doing what gets them by.

Bring HOGWASH To Your Birthday Party!

Can't get enough of Hogwash? Want to bring the experience closer to home. Well now you can! Hogwash does birthday parties. You can either have the party at the theater, or have it at your venue. Here are some options for the different parties.

Bring your birthday party to see the show together! We'll reserve front row seats for your special party so you'll be sure to take part in the action of the show! The whole party can take part in the interactive show, giving their suggestions, and maybe even jumping onstage with the actors. After the show, you'll get to take pictures with the cast on the Hogwash stage. The cast will even give the special birthday girl or boy an autographed poster to commemorate the day!

AVAILABILITY/TIME: Any day with a scheduled public performance of Hogwash. Saturdays: arrive by 1:45 pm, see the show from 2-3 pm, pictures with the cast after the show.

Birthday Package 2

Enjoy a day filled with Hogwash fun! Prior to the show, you'll get to host your Birthday Party in a private room at the University Heights Community Center, just across the street from the Hogwash Theatre. We'll set up everything you'll need, and have a staff member on site to assist you with decorations and food. This is the perfect place to have food, cake, and open presents before heading over to the theatre to catch the Hogwash show! You'll have reserved front-row seating, an unforgettable interactive show experience, and a great photo opportunity with the whole cast after the show! The cast will even give the special birthday girl or boy an autographed poster to commemorate the day!

AVAILABILITY/TIME: Any day with a scheduled public performance of Hogwash. Saturdays: Arrive by 1pm, enjoy food, cake, and presents until 1:40pm, walk over to the theatre for face painting and pre-show music, watch show from 2-3 pm, pictures with cast after the show.

Add a Hogwash Workshop to this party:After food and drinks, one of our trained Hogwash Teaching Artists will take your partygoers on an amazing imaginary journey. Using creative drama techniques, they'll venture into fantastic worlds where they will get to be the characters of the adventure! This will really get them revved up for the show! Please note the start time of the party will be 12:30pm with the workshop included.

BIRTHDAY PARTY SHOWS AT YOUR VENUE

Want to have a Hogwash Birthday Party when there's no public performance scheduled? No problem! We'll bring Hogwash to your venue, backyard, etc. You'll get a VIP Hogwash experience because we'll bring our costumes, music, face paint and art to your door. It's the same great Hogwash experience for your private party.

Here's what you'll receive when you book a Hogwash Traveling Show:

• A 15-minute storytelling workshop
• A 40-minute interactive show that's fun for all ages.
• An autographed Hogwash poster as a special present for the birthday boy or girl.
• You can choose the date and time!

Requirements:

• A space for the actors to perform that is at least 12' x 6'.
• An electrical outlet.
• Ample lighting for the performance space if it is an evening show.

*There will be a travel fee if traveling outside of King County. Call today to receive your custom quote.

Hogwash at Bumbershoot

Hogwash will be performing at Bumbershoot this year! For those of you who don't know, Bumbershoot Seattle's annual music and art festival. There will be tons of stuff do do there, and Hogwash is involved! Hogwash will be performing on September 2nd at 2:00pm, and September 3rd at 2:30pm at the Childrens Theater stage. Heres a link to the Bumbershoot website http://www.bumbershoot.org/

Auditions for Hogwash National Touring Company!!

Hogwash is going National! Auditions will be held July 22, 2007. Call 206. 297. 1767 to schedule a time slot! Good luck to everyone trying out!

Performer of the Week: Sarah Hoar

Sarah has been with Hogwash since the early days. She is always bright, cheery and willing to do any role in Hogwash. In a scene with Sarah, you give her something and it's always 'yes and'. She's the jack of all trades in Hogwash. She's able to be the lead or a wacky side-kick, she has taught a class for our Girl Scout show, and even was the artist making props and painting faces. She's a spirited young lass with wonderful energy. We love Sarah!

What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?
Being new to Seattle I've met some amazing people through Hogwash. I really appreciate this. I also love working with kids. To hear and see the kids enjoying, interacting, and reacting to the characters before them is an awesome experience.


When did you start performing?
When I was five, my first role was a Mexican jumping bean in Jack and the Beanstalk.


What is one of your most memorable moments performing?
I was cast as Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors my senior year of college. This is a part that normally goes to a man, so I was thrilled to receive it.

Week Nine Highlights

Nillie was the janitor of an International Spy Facility, but she dreamt of living the spy’s life. She practiced her spy moves while she worked and always kept everything spotless, but no one seemed to notice her good work, or even care. One day when Nillie arrived at work, all the spies had disappeared, vanished. Tyler, the most notable and rudest spy at the spy facility, had hid in the bathroom. Tyler filled Nillie in on what happened and told her that she had to stay there while he looked for all the lost spies. Nillie knew that this was her chance to prove herself to everyone that she was just a good a spy as anyone else. She decided to launch her own investigation. She found fingerprints on the ground near where all the spies had disappeared. She also came across a stranger lurking around her stuff. His name was Boris and he tricked Nillie into leaving the facility and looking for clues atop a snowy, cold mountain. He left her there to freeze. A strange creature lived atop that mountain and too Nillie in. Once under the cover of a roof, the strange creature revealed himself to be James Blond, the most greatest super spy in all the land! He trained her to be the best spy and they followed the clues to find the lost spies. It turned out that Tyler took all the spies so he could be the only spy and therefore the best spy. James Blond and Nillie dressed in disguises in order to trick Tyler. They succeeded in forcing him to confess and made him janitor and Nillie was appointed as the new top spy!

The Princess of San Diego was the kindest princess in all the land. She would take long walks with her half-human, half-dog friend to greet all her subjects. Unfortunately, her meaner older sister, the Princess of the Sea was a jealous and spiteful person. She decided to melt the ice caps with the help of global warming and dump all the water on top of San Diego. The princess had to learn to swim as the water rose higher and higher. She was afraid for the future of San Diego. With the help of some kind people, the princess figured she could find the drain for San Diego and pull the plug to drain all the water. This in turn made her sister dry up and really sick. She called on a Seattlite to get it to rain over San Diego. The Princess of the Sea apologized for her awful behavior and wanted to be friends with her sister. They decided that the land needs the sea and the sea needs the land, too much of one thing is not always a good thing.

Workshop Photos

Trailer

Video by RYAN LOVE

Performer of the Week: Brandon Gibbons

Brandon is the Musical Director and one of the creative minds behind Hogwash. He's a tour de force in many ways. His musical genius lulls babies to sleep and sends images of rainbows and lollipops into the minds of children everywhere. His smile and personality is infectious and he makes even the most reluctant singer feel comfortable. He's admired far and wide for his true musical virtuoso and also as a fantastic improvisor. Let's hear what he has to say.

What was your favorite moment from the show so far?
We were performing a Friday Matinee show for the University Cooperative School and Kapka School here in Seattle. There were close to 75 kids in the audience. It was such a different energy than the Saturday shows which are usually a pretty even adult to child crowd. The amount of energy these kids have a ten in the morning is incredible. At one point during the show, the 'bad guys', Scotty B and Jon, were creeping around behind Lauren's character on stage and the kids started sreaming and pointing them out to her. She tried to 'not see them' but it quickly became clear that there was no way the kids were going to let them off the hook! At the moment Lauren turned around and caught them, the deafening screams ceased, and the story continued. This was a perfect example of how the kids really get to take the reigns at Hogwash. They know what they want to see, and we'd better show it to them, or else...!!

What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?
The true power of art and expression is something that is in danger of slipping away from the world we live in. With video games and the internet and instant-everything, skills in social interaction and creative self-expression, along with patience, focus, and the ability to experience just being, have become all but forgotten elements of life as it may have once been. By integrating art, music, drama, and storytelling into one experience, Hogwash reaches out to a wide audience of children and adults. Hogwash, to me, is a chance to layout a blanket of possibilities, to show people that it's okay to have an imagination of your own, to trust yourself and your ideas. It is a space in which everyone, the performers and the audience, can create without fear of judgement. I feel privileged to be a part of something that I truly belive has the power to make a difference in the world we live in.

When did you start performing?
I began playing violin in 4th grade. During my first year in the school orchestra I performed the duo piece with another violinist. I don't even remember what it was, but it was great! Then next year we were scheduled to do it again, and two days before the concert, my partner quit. My teacher told me it was already in the program and I would have to perform the piece solo. I was terrified! The day of the concert I convinced my mom I was sick and she called me out of school. I sat at home all day playing the piece I was supposed to be playing at the concert over and over again. I can honestly say, I think that was the last time I missed a performance. I played violin for another year or so before switching to guitar to be a rock star, close to 15 years ago!

Who do you admire?
I've been very lucky to have had some amazing teachers over the course of my artistic journey. They always seem to come at just the right moments. There is also my grandma, who is the most loving and compassionate person I've ever known. She's gone through so much in her life time but no matter what happens, she never has any ill will toward anyone. She is the incarnation of love and acceptence in it's purist form. I've always admired that and hope someday to reach that state of being, in this life or the next.

What is one of your most memorable moments performing?
Performing is for me, a very spiritual and personal experience. Art, be it in the form of music, dance, acting, painting, whatever...takes skill. Skill is something we can see and touch and practice. It also takes someting else. Something unnamable and undefinable. You know it once you've felt it and then it is all you're reaching for from that moment on. I can remember the first time I had the experience, and every time since, but for me, it is all one moment that I am striving to exist within.

Chicago Opening Day Photos

The William Parrot Story

Story and Illustration by William Erignac age 4 and 3/4



Once upon a time there was a parrot named Hogwash. Hogwash loved other Parrots. They were all named Hogwash because they were from Africa. But there was one parrot named William. The other parrots called him Hogwash. Hogwash flew away. He remembered his little creature friends and he sang a song to them.

"Lullaby, lullaby I love you my friends. I come from Africa.
I rode over the sea. I come with William Parrot and the other
Hogwash parrots"

At the end of the song the little creatures calpped their hands and said "Yeah! Let's count to four. One. Two. Three. Four. There's another exploria. Let's go there.

The End.

CHICAGO SHOWCASE

Hogwash Chicago opened this Saturday at the Bailiwick Arts Center Studio Theater.

Shows will run this coming Saturday and Sunday, April 28th and 29th at 2pm. The theater is located at 1229 W Belmont Avenue, Chicago Il 60657.

For more information visit hogwashtime.com. To make reservations call 773. 883. 1090 or email info@hogwashtime.com

Stay tuned for pictures and highlights!!

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Feature Article in the Chicago Tribune

Beth Franken wrote an article that featured Hogwash for the Chicago Tribune

TAKE YOUR SEAT AND BOND. 4 new children's shows that demonstrate why live-on-stage beats the glowing screen

SPECIAL REPORT: Girl Scouts of America Scream Their Way through Hogwash!

Last week, Hogwash had some very special guests in swell Girl Scout vests! Troops came from the Girl Scout Totem Council Arts Partnership and filled the Hogwash theatre with their voices and great ideas. They dressed Jon and Jen in incredibly silly costumes and helped with ideas and even came on stage to be trees that granted wishes.

The story began with a pair of best friends painting pictures of mountain landscapes. After painting so many mountain paintings, they decided to travel to the other side of the mountain for more inspiration, even though Jen was very frightened of bears. Even seeing a stuffed teddy bear scared her, but she went on the adventure with her best friend anyway. On their journey, they encountered an angry bear. The other mountain critters suggested singing the bear a lullaby to get him to go to sleep. It worked, but the two best friends got in a fight and decided to go about different paths. Unbeknownst to them, Cruella DeVille, another aspiring artist, was following them. She was the one who got the bear to attack them. She wanted their ideas because she had artist’s block, and wanted all the inspiration for herself. She demanded that the bear capture the friends and bring them back to her. What she didn’t realize was that the forest critters would help Jon figure out what happened to Jen. They led them to Cruella DeVille’s secret cave. She was so mad; she started painting evil mustaches on all the forest critters. The two friends tricked Cruella to think that she was beautiful, which she was not, and convinced her to pose for a portrait. Instead she was attacked with stringy paint and became entangled and immobile. They made her realize that art is something everyone can create and that it’s not a contest on who is better at expressing themselves.

The Girl Scouts also helped out with providing a magical place such as Antarctica as the setting for the second story. There, Lucy worked at her Aunt’s penguin farms, cleaning up after smarmy penguins. She dreamt about going to a warmer, tropical place where she didn’t have to wear so many layers. Not that far away at the ice castle, a prince forced to wear girl’s dresses for the warmth, dreamt the same dream. He decided to hold a ball in order to find his travel companion on his trip to the sunny shores of Florida. Lucy’s evil Auntie hid Lucy’s invitation to the ball so she could get closer to the prince and take over the ice kingdom. Lucy was granted some wishes from magical trees so that she could make it to the ball. She found a disguise and was able to go unnoticed by her Auntie at the ball. The prince immediately was drawn to the strange stranger and already knew that he wanted to take her to Florida. The dance competition was a hit and even though the evil Auntie threw down some awesome moves, she could not beat Lucy’s amazing gymnastic style break-ice-dancing moves. The prince tore off his funny dress to reveal his intentions to take Lucy to Florida with him. Hizah!

Thanks Girl Scouts of America Totem Council! We hope you took what you learned from last weekend home and made up your own stories. We hope to see you on stage soon!

Performer of the Week: Lauren Domino

Lauren Domino dominates with dynamism and dignity. As a performer during the fall show and now the director, Lauren leads the group with a vast knowledge of children's theatre, improv and teaching experience. She's always looking out for the actors and always there to step in and perform when there's a need. She's hilarious, smart and an electric performer and director.

What was your favorite moment from the show so far?I think my favorite moment from the show was a music alone. When the bear came out of the cave, and the two girls fed him candy and an everlasting gobstopper, the bear's tummy was really upset. We had a guest trumpet player in the band that day, and he made a little "toot" sound just as the bear was complaining about his indigestion! It was so funny!!!! What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?I love that, as the Director, I just get to sit back, relax, and watch the show. It's such a fun show to watch, and the performers are terrific, so my job is easy! I also love that Hogwash is offering a different theatre experience to families than any other show in town. With this show, the kids get to drive the story, jump on their seats, boo at the bad guys, dance and sing in the isles . . . you wouldn't be allowed to do that at a standard theatre!

When did you start performing?Probably when I was about 4 years old! When I was a little girl, I was always rounding all the kids on the block up and making them be in plays that (of course) I wrote, directed, and starred in! But I didn't really start doing theatre until I got to high school and auditioned for a play. I fell in love with theatre at that moment, and I went onto study Drama at the UW.

Who do you admire?That's a hard one! There are so many people I admire . . . Of course,there are my parents who have always been supportive of my creative endeavors, and who have worked hard to provide wonderful opportunities to me. I also look up to Juliette Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts because she pioneered an organization that has given so many women a voice in this world, and the courage to pursue their goals.

What is one of your most memorable moments performing?In the Fall run of Hogwash, I was playing the manager of a hot dog stand at Safeco Field. When we apprehended the bad guys (who had been smashing hot dogs for no reason), I poured ketchup, mustard, and relish all over their head in front of the audience. Of course, it wasn't really ketchup, mustard, and relish, it was silly string, but it was still hilarious!

Pictures, Pictures...

A musical number



Listen kids...



Scotty B, working the crowd



They told her!



Becky, Jen & Arthur

Performer of the Week: Nick Edwards

Nick has been apart of Hogwash since the beginning of the Seattle run last year. He's a very talented artist and performer, designing the posters and all the props onstage as well as painting faces before the show. He's made all the fantastic props that have helped develop the stories and enhanced the children's experience on stage. He's had to be able to think ahead and anticipate what will happen two to three scenes ahead of the actors. He's always thinking outside the box, making props that improve the dynamic between the actors and the audience. We're all very sad that last week was his last performance. We all wish him the best and know this will not be the last time Hogwash sees Nick Edwards. Farewell and best of luck! His craft and imagination will be missed by all.
What was your favorite moment from the show this week?
I dunno about last week, but one of my favorite moments ever was when we one of the suggestions we got "tiger," and I could tell Scottie B was going to come out as the tiger character in the next scene. Well as soon as I heard the word tiger I started making paper plates into tiger stripes (orange and black poster paint and some good ol' double stick tape). As soon as I put the stripes on Scottie, I knew they were not going to stay on. But he dashed across the stage a couple times, dropping a few stripes as he did. When he finally entered the scene he had about half of them left and they were falling off left and right. But then the scene turned into a story about helping the tiger find and keep all his stripes. I always love it when the players take the art for what it is, even it's limitations, and make it into something incredible and interesting to watch on stage.
What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?
I really like the role I play in the show. I get to do lots of little things that make a big difference to the story. It's also fun trying to figure what the improvisers on stage might need next and (more importantly) how to make it. My supplies, as varied as they are, require a bit of imagination and a bit of ingenuity to make it work. I've done a bit of improvising in my day but being the artist in Hogwash is unlike any sort of improvising I've ever done before.
When did you start performing?
I'd love to say it was in my first play in high school but regrettably there are hours and hours of footage of me as a young'un singing and playing and completely and totally, unabashedly mugging for the camera. No doubt about it, I was doomed from the beginning.
Who do you admire?
Toughie. It's difficult for me to choose one of the big names we all know and recognize. I think more so than that I'm inspired by the people I know or meet. Little moments of brilliance or dedication or passion. Those keep me going when it's rough. And the idea that maybe, just maybe I could one day be one of those to someone I know or meet.
What is one of your most memorable moments performing?
This happened during the first run but I remember Ian and one of the other players were good friends who loved roller coasters and hot dogs. They were going to enter an amusement park model contest but got into a fight and decided to work on their own. When the scene turned to Ian's workshop the model I made for him was basically a flat piece of foam core with a pipe cleaner sticking through it like a pole. I think it may also have had a piece of construction paper taped to it. He just sat there staring at the "model" and it was so sad and pathetic. But it was also a brilliant moment of pathos where we all understood how much those two friends needed each other as well as how important their friendship was.

Week Five Highlights

Miss Pumpkin's Flower shop just got a loyal customer out of Sparky, the world renowned juggler. Much like flowers, Miss Pumpkin and Sparky's fledgling friendship blossomed into a beautiful bond. Unfortunately, a no good flower shop opened up down the street and planned to ruin business for Miss Pumpkin by creating a giant, human-like flower monster for the upcoming flower convention. Miss Pumpkin was also planning on bringing her dancing and singing flowers to the convention. Flowers love showers in order to grow into singing and dancing flowers. Sparky did his best to help out yet was still unfulfilled. He loved to juggle and had not juggled in a long time. Coincidentally, the grand prize was a juggling set from Mr. BigTop at the flower convention. Miss Pumpkin's flowers learned a great dance from Sparky. At the convention, the dubious store owners from down the street had their flower monster dance. It wasn't very good at dancing and couldn't dance without being sprayed with water and failed to get the grand prize. Of course, Miss Pumpkin's flowers won and Sparky got his juggling kit! Hooray!

Lucy longed to use her magical powers but her parents wouldn't let her because she was too young. Her mean older brothers loved to rub it in that she couldn't use her powers...and also because she was so shorty short short short. They constantly made her make sandwiches for them even though they could poof! sandwiches in a second. It just so happened that old Merlin was getting younger over the years and was looking for a replacement to be in charge of his magic convention. (Down the street from the flower convention) Poor Lucy didn't know who to turn to. Her eccentric neighbor Ms. Macalroy, also happened to be a magical fairy, granted her the wish of being able to attend the magic convention without her parents knowing. Merlin decided that he would choose his successor by holding a sandwich making contest sans magic. Lucy had much experience making sandwiches without using magic, her brothers however, had no idea how to make a sandwich without magic. Lucy became Merlin's successor and her parent's were so impressed, they allowed her to use her magic and she could finally poof! her own sandwiches too.

Hogwash reviewed by Parent Map Magazine

Kris Collingridge wrote a review of Hogwash for Parent Map Magazine.

A really 'pig' show Positive, silly improv for kids at 'Hogwash'

Performer of the Week: Becky Schroeter

By watching her onstage, you wouldn't think that she is still in high school. Becky has talent seeping out of her skin. If I had a time machine, I'd love to see where Becky will be at in 5 years. At the rate she's going, she'll be legend by 25 years of age. She's a dedicated performer who absorbs everything that is going on onstage and always has diverse, developed characters. Let's hear what she has to say about being so awesome.

What was your favorite moment from the show this week?

My favorite moment of this weeks show has to be when Scott was playing Dr.Abc, and almost has a meltdown because he couldn't stand the fact that little animals were getting hurt. It was so funny, and gave a lot depth to his character. I also liked the part when the bear got sick, and the trumpet player found a perfect time to "toot" his horn.

What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?

I love the fact that I can have fun, and be silly, and it is perfectly ok. So many serious things happen in the world everyday, it’s nice to take a little break from reality, and step into fairy tale land for even an hour. I also love the people I get to work with. I get the chance to perform with amazing improver's, and more importantly amazing people. I will always remember the second week of practice when we had to make up a game using only gibberish. That was so hard, but in the end, I think we really got to know, and trust each other. I'm still in high school, so this is even bigger for me. How many students can really say they have had this kind of opportunity. I consider myself very blessed.

When did you start performing?

I started performing when I was in elementary school. I wasn't the most outgoing in my classes normally, but when I got on stage to do a recital, I was the loudest, and the most dedicated little kid you could find. After elementary school, I started doing plays, and with plays, came improv. It kind of took off from there.
Who do you admire?

Vincent Van Gogh- he was crazy, and gave his ear to a prostitute, but he had so much passion, and that kind of passion is missing from a lot of the world today.Bing Crosby/ Gene Kelly- those men could dance and sing, and they had more class in their little toes, than many of us could ever dream of. My eighth grade teacher Mrs. McGlothlen- She was one of the biggest influences in my life when it comes to acting. She inspired me so much, and I really strive to be like her. She has this energy about her that makes you want to try your hardest at what you’re doing.
What is one of your most memorable moments performing?

I would have to say my most memorable moment performing was the second week when Scott and I were "not so evil" parrots, who apparently were just very hungry. Scott kept making these chirping noises, and it was hilarious because I had no idea what to say. I also loved when Arthur came up with the game "sheep, goat, lemon", which I would defiantly play instead of boring old "rock paper, scissors".

Week Four Highlights

Renowned veterinarian, Dr. ABC was happy that he had no pets to see. He was such a great veterinarian that no animals were sick. That all came to an end when two meddling kids used their toys to hurt animals by shooting gumdrops with their sling shots. Dr. ABC couldn’t keep his emotions under control when he heard what was happening to all those poor birds. Good thing his two feathered friends sang him a song to help him keep his cool and still stay focused on finding the two kids. Dr. ABC is such a great veterinarian that he was able to help all the injured birdies as well as teaching the troublesome kids a lesson about responsibility with their toys.

Scary animals need friends too. Best friends, a tiger and a bat long for other friends to play with. Too many games of rock, paper, scissors and goat, sheep, lemon were making them crazy. Meanwhile, two zoo collectors were pondering how they could sell more tickets. They thought that adding some scary animals to their zoo would attract more patrons. They ventured to the farthest reaches of the jungle to find their would-be scary attractions. Sure enough, they found the scary animal friends and captured both of them. A wandering panda was also caught in the fiasco and escaped with the zoo keeper’s hat. The panda wasn’t afraid to help the scary tiger and bat. She devised a plan to lure the evil zoo keepers into the cage using the hat she had stolen. Once they had the zoo keeper’s captured, they forced the zoo keeper’s to be scary to know how it felt like to be trapped in a cage being scary all the time. They realized their wrongs and everyone lived a happy life playing goat, sheep, lemon.

Hogwash reviewed by the Seattle Gay News

Jacob Clark wrote a review about Hogwash for the Seattle Gay News.

University Theater offers wonderful programs for kids, or the kid in all of us

March 23, 2007

Performer of the Week: Arthur Allen

Actor/physical comedian extraordinaire! Arthur was chosen as our first performer of the week for his drive and his willingness to take risks on stage. His energy is contagious and he brings a smile to everyone's face. We asked Arthur a few questions about the Hogwash show and performing in general. Here's what he had to say:

What was your favorite moment from the show last week?

I'd have to say that my favorite moment from last Saturday's show was when sweet, lovely Jen Rizor came out dressed as a ruff, gruff, tough, and buff evil auto parts dealer: grungy! sleeves rolled up, with a black bandana tied around her head!

What do you enjoy most about Hogwash?

Lots of people work in live theater because they crave the energy that radiates from a live audience. At Hogwash, any one of our audience members has the energy of a stadium full of adults. They're fresh, they're demanding, they expect our best, and are merciless to anything else! Performing for kids is pure joy!

When did you start performing?

My first remembered performance was for my mom and little sisters, WAY back when. There was a thunder and lightning storm, the power had gone out, and we had only two candles. My sisters were pretty scared and my mom was worried and upset, so I hopped on the bed and started singing disney songs, doing goofy dances, and making up crazy stories about poison butterflies and flying motorcycles.

What is one of your most memorable moments performing?

I'll never forget the odd and ironic thrill of being booed off the stage. I was a bad guy, and the audience hated my character so much, that when the narrator let them, they booed me out of this universe! I think I was an evil chameleon or something, with a silly-string tongue that ate flies and stole hats. I never expected a "booo!" to sound so wonderful!

Who do you admire?

Curious George for his willingness to try EVERYTHING!
Mark Twain for his wit.
Charlie Chaplin because he made extremely hard work look like so much fun. His work is brilliant.

Arthur is a phenomenal performer and a great addition to the Hogwash family. We can't wait to see what he has in store for us in the weeks to come.

Week Three Highlights

Conoco the adventurer and her car mechanic plan a radical adventure to the far away land of Miss Cocoa Island, so they could play amongst the Horskies and the Rhino-Piggies. In order to go, they needed a magical nanushka from the auto parts store to travel to Miss Cocoa Island. Unfortunately, the auto part supply store guy had his own ideas! He wanted to claim the island as his and reign king over all the little creatures to do his bidding. After hitchhiking in the trunk of Conoco’s car, he captured the cutest little rhino-piggie and made her cry. Conoco and her mechanic rescued the rhino-piggies and helped the evil auto parts store clerk realize that he just wanted some friends to go on adventures with, and he apologized to all the creatures of Miss Cocoa Island.

Scientists have found that sad potatoes don’t grow very well. A farmer realized this when her potatoes would not grow. She called on the help of a klutzy fairy who had trouble helping. A watering fairy came along to help but she didn’t have enough water to make a whole field of potatoes happy. A pair of conniving leprechauns decided that they wanted to poison the field of potatoes for nonsensical reasons. You know how leprechauns are! The fairies and the farmer sought help from a wise tree creature who helped them make a rain storm to water the field before the leprechauns could carry out their plan. The potatoes grew real big and sprouted arms and feet and danced a happy potato dance with the farmer and the helpful fairies. The rain stopped and a rainbow appeared which made the sneaky leprechauns happy too. Rain storms rule!

Come have fun with us next week at 2pm!

Chicago Tour Announced - APRIL 2007.

Jerk Alert Productions presents...




Bailiwick Arts Center Studio Theatre
1229 W Belmont Avenue | Chicago IL 60657

April 21, 22, 28, 29, 2007
Saturday / Sunday @ 2 p.m.

BUY TICKETS RIGHT HERE
$15.00 for adults
$13.00 for children
Free for kids under 3

STARRING:

Gillian Bellinger
Aaron Caponigro
Kate Cohen
Megan Green
Shelby Jennings
Jason Knauf
Kara Kulhanek
Vinnie Lacey
Tim Young
Jill Olson
Martin Verni
Darrin Townsend
Chrissy Swinko
Matt Owens

director: Shelby Jennings
producer: Jill Olson
executive producer: Jason Anfinsen
executive producer: BJ Tregoning
art director: Jason Knauf
technical director: Matt Owens

Week Two Highlights

75 people climbed aboard a raft made of long-haired Chihuahua’s and set sail for the island of California, a strange and far away place covered in mystical forests and musical fields. As an art teacher and her favorite student searched for the perfect orange, the parent and the principal devised a plan to turn the ferry of the forest against them and steal all of the magical beans from the island. All worked out when the ferry asked the magical forest which of the two groups were telling the truth, as the “forest never lies”! It turns out that the principal and the parent meant only to bring the beans back to school to help their students learn math, and they were just a little misguided in their methods.

In other news, it turns out that if you sing into a magical microphone, especially one that talks to you, you can in fact be transported to just outside the gates of the Smuckers Peanut butter factory. If you ever happen to find yourself there, scream really loud to the princess in the tower and wait patiently as she runs down the long, long, long spiral staircase. Beware, however, of the two parrots that may have overheard you singing, and followed you. While you’re being introduced to the gnomes and the head elf, the two parrots may accidentally eat all of the peanut butter in the factory, and thus, the world. If this does happen, fear not! Simply ask everyone to help make more peanut butter and soon there will be enough for everyone once again!

Be a part of the fun!!!
Come see Hogwash every Saturday!!!

Feature Article in The Falcon Newspaper.

Avery Matro wrote an article about Hogwash in the The Falcon Newspaper at Seattle Pacific University.

According to the kids: Hogwash lets audience tell the story
The Falcon Newspaper
March 7, 2007

WOW. The press digs our show. Now you have to come see us Saturday!

Feature Article in The UW DAILY

Andrew Cardillo wrote a feature article on Hogwash Seattle for The Daily of the University of Washington.

"Hogwash: An Improvised Tall Tale sets the bar quite a bit higher."

Below is the link for the full article. Many thanks to The Daily for their support. See ya Saturday!

That's a load of Hogwash
The UW Daily
March 6, 2007

Opening Day Highlights!

Thanks to everyone who came to opening day
of Hogwash Seattle on Saturday March 3.

Over 100 people packed the Historic University Theater.
We run every Saturday through May 19!

Check out some video and pictures from opening day.

Hogwash Opens March 3 in SEATTLE

Jerk Alert Productions and Wing-It Productions are thrilled to announce the jubilant return of...




Saturday March 3 - May 19, 2007

Historic University Theater
5510 University Way N.E.
Seattle, WA 98105
2 P.M.

$10.00 for adults
$8.00 for children
kids under 3 get in free

(206) 297 1767 / buy tickets here



HOGWASH is an hour long extravaganza of the arts, implementing improvisation, music, storytelling, drama, for an educational afternoon of family theatre. Seasoned actors jump into action at the kooky suggestions of each brilliant audience of 3 - 103 year old narrators, who drive the exciting plot into a world of unknown possibilities. As each weird story is acted out, graphic artists paint props, draw backdrops, and illustrate key set designs to enhance the bizarre reality of every tale. Seattle jazz / funk band The Hamstrings score every scene with an instrumental soundtrack that elevates every exciting moment.



HOGWASH was created in Chicago 2004 by Jason Anfinsen is one of dozens of art projects from Jerk Alert Productions, an independent theatrical collective of actors, writers, directors, musicians, painters responsible for some of the freshest underground theater, books, and films on the planet: Stimulus, Haener Vs. Haener, Pep Rally, Juke All Over Your Face, Stab At Sleep, Popularity Contest & Fun Factory. This run of HOGWASH is directed by Lauren Domino, and co-produced with Wing-It Productions, creators of the wildly entertaining Jet City Improv & Twisted Flicks.

NATIONAL PRESS
"Highly Recommended" - Chicago Reader
"Kid friendly improv with edge" - The Seattle Times
"Educates while it entertains" - Timeout Chicago
"Improv comedy for the 3-12 set" - Seattle Post-Intelligencer
"Creative and unique" - Go City Kids

OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
2005 Chicago Improv Festival.
2005 Toronto Improv Festival.
2007 Seattle Festival of Improvisational Theater.

Tickets on sale for SFIT

HOGWASH-an improvised tall tale, is an official selection of the 2007 Seattle Festival of Improvisational Theater.

Saturday
February 17, 2007 @ 1 p.m.

HOGWASH is an hour long extravaganza of the arts, implementing improvisation, music, storytelling, drama, for an educational afternoon of family theatre. Seasoned actors jump into action at the kooky suggestions of each brilliant audience of 3 -103 year old narrators, who drive the exciting plot into a world of unknown possibilities. As each weird story is acted out, graphic artists paint props, draw backdrops, and illustrate key set designs to enhance the bizarre reality of every tale. Local jazz / funk band The Hamstrings score every scene with an instrumental soundtrack that elevates every exciting moment.


www dot hog wash time dot com

Hogwash Welcomes New Cast Members

Hogwash Seattle would like to welcome Rebekah Schroeter, Jonathan Axell, Arthur Allen, Sean Cowen, and Steve Minor to the family. Congratulations!!

We would also like to thank all of the talented people who came out for auditions on January 7th.

BROCCOLI MAN...world premiere

Here he is kids, in his first ever, on camera appearance...you know him and love him,

THE ONE, THE ONLY...BROCCOLI MAN

Hogwash at SFIT

We are very proud to announce that "Hogwash...an improvised tall tale for all children" is an official selection for the 2007 Seattle Festival for Improvisational Theater, the four year old showcase of improv acts from around the world. Hogwash is the festival's first family production. We are scheduled to perform Saturday February 17th at 1pm at The Historic University Theater, 5510 University Way NE, Seattle, WA.