A Chorus Line
Directed by Carrie Klewin
By Marvin Hamlisch
A bold and brash presentation of the Broadway musical audition story known as A Chorus Line. Through a series of gripping monologues and soaring musical numbers, the audience is drawn into the personal stories and high-stakes competition at the heart of this iconic show. Featuring a company of talented dancers under the glare of bright stage lights, this production captures the exhilaration and vulnerability of performers vying for their chance to shine.
A Christmas Catastrophe
Devised by Carrie Klewin & Playing by Heart Theatre
Fells Point Corner Theatre, Baltimore
In this delightfully quirky devised theatre production, audiences are invited into the whimsical world of A Christmas Catastrophe. Narrated by a sassy, snarky Christmas tree, the story follows the misadventures of Gloria Grinch, a ruthless toy company executive who terrorizes her employees with her Grinch-like antics. Kept in check by a mischievous angel, Gloria's callous disregard for the "true meaning of Christmas" is hilariously contrasted with the holiday spirit embodied by her long-suffering staff. Blending holiday charm with biting social commentary, this family-friendly production is a fresh, imaginative romp, inspired by a classic tale.
Ada and the Engine
Written by Lauren Gunderson
Directed by Carrie Klewin
An experimental theatrical presentation produced by The Catholic University of America
Experience the visionary story of Ada Lovelace, the brilliant 19th century woman who envisioned the power of computers to create music and make calculations long before the technology existed. Witness her dynamic partnership with the inimitable Charles Babbage as they imagine a future where "thinking engines" can predict outcomes and communicate.
In a trailblazing twist on traditional theatre, this production of Ada and the Engine embraced the limitations of the pandemic to create an immersive, digital-first experience. Filmed entirely against green screens in the actors' private homes, the show blended live video feeds, cinematic storytelling, and innovative staging to transport audiences to a world beyond the confines of lockdown. By harnessing technological possibilities and the creative potential of animation, puppetry and VFX backdrops, the production found new ways to connect with viewers and showcase the resilience of the theatrical spirit, even in the face of adversity.
Adventures of The Red Wolves
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Devised from a distance by The Red Wolves
A groundbreaking interactive virtual performance that puts the audience in control of the story. Join The Red Wolves ensemble as they navigate a high-stakes, choose-your-own-adventure styled scenario, inspired by real events.
With dynamic design and innovative use of technology, this immersive theatrical experience challenges you to make critical decisions that could mean the difference between life and death for the characters. Will you have what it takes to guide The Red Wolves to safety?
*Based on a True Story: When a group of protesters were suddenly attacked and pepper-sprayed on the streets of D.C., a local resident acted on instinct to open his home and shelter them from the chaos. These actions exemplify the resilience and compassion that fueled the development of Adventures of The Red Wolves, and The Red Wolves ensemble as they continue to fight for justice in the face of adversity.
Antigone
Written by Marie Mayingi
Directed by Carrie Klewin
JL Smith New Play Festival, York College of Pennsylvania
Virtual Performance
In this powerful adaptation of Sophocles' classic tragedy, Antigone grapples with the aftermath of her brother's death at the hands of police in contemporary France. Amidst the Black Lives Matter movement, the two sisters navigate their grief and fight for justice, as the spirit of their departed brother guides them through this emotional journey. With striking storytelling and a thought-provoking exploration of systemic racism and state violence, this production offers a poignant reimagining of the ancient Greek tale, resonating deeply with the ongoing calls for accountability and change.
Beauty and the Beast
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Musical Direction by N. Thomas Pedersen
Choreography by Pauline Grossman
A high-energy theatrical production of Disney's classic tale. Audiences are transported to a fantastical world filled with imaginative sets, dazzling costumes, and memorable characters brought to life through impressive song and dance numbers. As the story of Belle and the cursed Beast unfolds on stage, the production's soaring musical performances create a thrilling, family-friendly experience that captivates viewers of all ages.
Born of a Fairytale
Written & Performed by Eli Sibley
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Choreography by Pauline Grossman
Eli Sibley's vibrant one-woman show, Born of a Fairytale, invites audiences on a captivating journey through the realm of classic tales. Blending contemporary movement, music, and storytelling, this production redefines the once-upon-a-time narrative, exploring themes of love, identity, and the power of self-discovery. Following a spirited protagonist adorned in striking red shoes, the audience is swept up in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of the possibility that lies beyond the traditional "happily ever after."
"Out of nowhere (neither myself nor anyone I spoke to had heard much about this in advance), lots of positive responses to this, from Fringe and Purge, DC Theatre Scene, and folks on the street. The definition of a Hidden Gem." ~Hidden Gems/DC Fringe Guide
Cabaret
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Musical Direction by Braden McKinley
In this bold reimagining of the classic musical Cabaret, the action unfolds on a striking scaffold set that transforms from a vibrant Berlin nightclub into a chilling symbol of the growing Nazi threat. As the story progresses, the set morphs to reveal apartment boxes and eventually the ominous cells where captured characters are contained, underscoring the vicious war that rages around the doomed romance at the heart of the narrative.
Dr. Faustus Lights the Lights
Written by Gertrude Stein
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Original Music Composed by Kyle Gullings
In a bold and innovative reimagining of Gertrude Stein's postmodern play Dr. Faustus Lights the Lights, this theatrical production casts the spotlight, quite literally, on the power of technology and the human condition. Against a backdrop of haunting, ethereal violin music, the stage is illuminated solely by the spectral glow of handheld flashlights, casting an eerie, atmospheric light on the fragmented narrative. This minimalist yet captivating approach underscores the play's exploration of themes such as morality, identity, and the consequences of human ambition.
eXtreme eXchange
eXtreme eXchange - A vibrant festival of political theater, where heated debates and passionate exchanges captivate audiences with their intensity and drama. Considering the theatrical nature of modern politics, where heated debates and passionate exchanges have become a spectacle for the public, eXtreme eXchange provides an opportunity for artists to use the stage as an arena to perform, confronting audiences (and each other) with high-stakes political theater.
First Lady Suite
Written by Michael John LaChiusa
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Musical Direction by Braden McKinley
First Lady Suite is an enthralling exploration of the lives of some of history's most overlooked figures - the wives of U.S. presidents. Presented in four vivid vignettes, this production uses vibrant projections to transport the audience into the emotional journeys of these remarkable women. From the haunting dreams of Mary Gallagher and Evelyn Lincoln aboard Air Force One on the fateful day in Dallas, to the time-traveling encounter between Mamie Eisenhower and the celebrated Marian Anderson, each piece offers a poignant and insightful look into the complex experiences of these first ladies.
Il Mostro Turchino
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Original Music Composed by Ben Bernstein
Written by Carlo Gozzi
In this imaginative adaptation of Carlo Gozzi's classic fable, the imprisoned Blue Monster recognizes his chance for freedom in the deep love between Prince Taer and Princess Dardané. However, the kingdom is beset by challenges - a jaded king, a corrupt queen, mythical beasts, and scheming bureaucrats. Infused with vibrant theatricality and resonance for modern times, the stage is set for a captivating battle between narcissism and true love, as the Blue Monster's fate hangs in the balance.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Directed by Carrie Klewin
By Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice
This electrifying production of the beloved musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat thrills the audience in a visually stunning spectacle. A towering, multi-level set creates a dynamic stage for the story to unfold, where a children's choir appears and disappears in choir boxes through magical theatre effects, and elevated dance platforms feature the dynamic choreography. This captivating blend of vibrant visuals, ethereal vocals, and high-energy movement brings the timeless tale of Joseph to life in an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Life in Death
Composer and Librettist Gregg Martin
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Opera Electronica
Based on The Oval Portrait by Edgar Allan Poe
Life in Death, a haunting original opera electronica inspired by the dark poetry of Edgar Allan Poe. This striking production blends chilling vocals, pulsating rhythms, and a visually stunning set design to create an unforgettable sensory experience. Life in Death takes the audience on a mesmerizing journey through the depths of human emotion through the tortured journey of the painter and his doomed subject, exploring themes of mortality, the macabre, and the fragility of the human condition.
Mindblanking
Written and Performed by Marc Unger
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Writer and actor Marc Unger, (known for his work in film and as a professional stand-up comedian) decided to push his artistic boundaries by developing an original solo performance piece. The result, titled Mindblanking, was a deeply personal exploration of the human experience through the lens of his unique creative perspective.
"What do baseball stadiums, slot machines and America's war on terrorism have in common? Take a journey through writer-performer Marc Unger's fractured mind to discover the answer. In his darkly funny new solo show, Mindblanking, Marc combines vivid character portrayal with straightforward commentary to tell the uniquely personal story of an artist's search for meaning. From a selfish plan to escape the messiness of his own life by visiting baseball stadiums around the country, emerges a bitterly truthful, hilarious, and often jarring examination of the fears, contradictions, and frustrations which Americans are faced with during this "zero hour" in history. Mindblanking is not intended to be another "political" show but rather an attempt to understand the humanity which underlies it all."
Miss Julie
Directed by Lisa Berger & Carrie Klewin
Adapted by Anne Charlotte Hanes Harvey
An original adaptation of August Strindberg's classic Miss Julie that explores the charged relationship between a aristocratic young woman and her father's servant. The staging captures the intense emotional turmoil, as the characters grapple with class divides, forbidden desires, and the consequences of their actions. Under the expert direction of Lisa Berger and Carrie Klewin, the drama unfolds with raw energy and psychological complexity, captivating audiences with the simmering tension and powerful performances that bring this masterpiece of Nordic dysfunction to vivid life.
Mrs. Bob Cratchit's Wild Christmas Binge
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Production Photos by Pavlo Bosyy
In this farcical send-up of the Dickens classic, the ghosts' magic goes haywire, sending Scrooge tumbling through time and space. Mrs. Cratchit, longing for escape, plots a daring leap from the London Bridge, while Scrooge keeps crashing into the wrong scenes, much to everyone's bewilderment. A delightfully chaotic twist on the tale of redemption and grace.
Pandemic Projects
Directed (from a distance) by Carrie Klewin
A variety of projects during the COVID-19 pandemic times with Planet Connections Theatre Festivity, Theatre is a Cure, Powerstories Women's Theatre Festival, Women's Theatre Festival, & The Red Wolves
Switch
Written by Lisa Kirazian
Directed by Carrie Klewin
This captivating new production, Switch by acclaimed playwright Lisa Kirazian, delves into the complex and often overlooked world of the foster care system. Through a blend of sharp dialogue, physical storytelling, and playful staging, the play explores the perspectives of the children, social workers, and parents navigating this challenging landscape. We witness the struggles and triumphs of the young people in foster care, as they navigate the uncertainties of identity, personal transformation, and the power of choice. The production invites the audience to empathize with the diverse range of perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the foster care system and its impact on all those involved.
Tempest(4)
Devised and Directed by Carrie Klewin
Original Music Composed by Gregg Martin
In this immersive project inspired by Shakespeare's Tempest, the ethereal spirit Ariel is embodied by four women trapped in a web of human trafficking. Through a powerful devised theatre process, their individual stories intertwine, echoing the magic of the original text.
Against a haunting backdrop of a fictional-yet-familiar night club, the performers use movement and dialogue from the original text to explore themes of exploitation, resilience, and the reclamation of autonomy. This production challenges the audience to confront the harsh realities of modern-day slavery while finding glimmers of hope in the transformative power of collective expression.
The Beggar's Opera
Written by John Gay
Performing Edition by Jonathan Dobin
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Musical Direction by Ben Bernstein
A towering, three-story set inspired by the whimsical illustrations of Windsor McCay brings the beloved ballad opera to life in a thrilling new production. Mischievous characters plot, scheme, climb ladders, and slide down fireman poles, adding a sense of daring and adventure to this classic tale of corruption, classism, and capitalism. As the daring Macheath fights for his life, pursued by lovers, the stage becomes a real-life game of chutes and ladders.
The Count of Monte Cristo
Book, Lyrics & Music by Ben Bernstein
Directed by Carrie Klewin
A Staged Reading with Orchestra
A contemporary reimagining of the classic tale of betrayal and revenge that transports audiences to a world of political intrigue and personal reckoning. Blending the timeless themes of the original with a modern sensibility, this adaptation explores the moral complexities and emotional turmoil that drive the Count's relentless pursuit of retribution, inviting the audience to wrestle with the line between righteous vengeance and the corrupting nature of power.
The Moors
Written by Jen Silverman
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Musical Direction by Kate Brennan
Fight Choreography by Eli Lynn
York College of Pennsylvania, WPAC Stage
Production Photos by Mark Faubel, ER Fotos
Bringing the gothic drama of The Moors to life, this production features a talented ensemble of undergraduate students and local professional actors. The shadowy, moody stage set with dramatic lighting creates an absorbing, atmospheric experience, drawing the audience deep into the complex, intricate world of the play.
The Normal Giant
Written & Performed by Neil David Seibel
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Production Photos by Chris Rich
00:42
YouTube
The Normal Giant Trailer
There are monsters in the world and monsters in our minds…. How do we tell the difference? In a fictional world of modern technology and fairy tale characters, a battle between Giants happens in a land faraway. The town of Normal deals with a new wave of immigration that reignites old tensions between the status quo and native giants who also call Normal their home. Inspired by actual events this one-man show from Neil David Seibel is an experience for the mind and soul.
A complex social commentary, Neil David Sibel's one-person masterpiece The Normal Giant, comes to vivid life in this impactful production. The audience is transported to a world where the line between being normal and being a monster is blurred. Dramatic stage lighting casts stark, intense silhouettes, heightening the emotional impact and elevating the symbolism of power, corruption, and the struggle for justice.
The Perfect Game
Written by John Grissmer
Directed by Carrie Klewin
Musical Direction by Dominic Traino
Production Photos by Tony Fiorini
This exhilarating new musical brings the thrill of the basketball court to life with dazzling choreography, soaring vocals, and a heartwarming story of perseverance. John Grissmer delivers a slam-dunk story of two modern-day coaches trying to cope with their past and their future on and off the court. Love, life, and the invention of basketball come together as the players' passion for the game shines through.
The Pirates of Penzance
Written by Gilbert & Sullivan
Directed by Carrie Klewin,
Musical Direction by N. Thomas Pedersen
Choreography by Pauline Grossman
In this electrifying production of the beloved Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, the mischievous pirates and their hapless band of daughters are brought to vivid life. From the daring rope-swinging antics of the fearless Pirate King to the joyful leaps of the trampoline-bouncing daughters, the stage is alive with a sense of adventure and pure theatrical delight.
Thistle
Written by Erik Ehn
Directed by Carrie Klewin
A workshop production as part of Erik Ehn's worldwide Soulographie project
As part of the international Soulographie: Our Genocides festival, this workshop production of Thistle by acclaimed playwright Erik Ehn. Centering on the true testimony of Rufina Amaya, the sole survivor of a tragic massacre in her El Salvadoran town, the play explores the profound journey of learning, processing, and carrying the burden of such profound trauma.
With an imaginative and poetic approach, Thistle confronts the audience with the complex interplay between memory and lived experience. The all-knowing, ever-changing Broadcaster serves as an emcee, guiding the audience through this haunting and powerful exploration of the human experience.
"Soulographie is an audacious and devastating achievement, sustained by Erik Ehn's commitment to lyricism in the face of brutality. The strongest characters in his cycle resist pain and shame with their inviolate imaginations. In metaphor they achieve grace." ~Marc Robinson
Variations Project
An original ten-minute annual play festival created by Carrie Klewin & members of Run of the Mill Theatre
In 2005, Carrie Klewin along with members of the Run of the Mill Theater company, launched an ambitious community-based theatre project in Baltimore. It began with a house party, a graffiti wall, and a diary room where local artists and friends shared their experiences around the theme "Desire". Interested playwrights were given access to source materials and photos gathered at the house party to inspire them to write new plays focused on the theme. The plays were then shepherded through a development process including a public reading and private dramaturgical sessions. This inspired a selection of 10 short plays written by playwrights from the surrounding area, which were then fully produced on stage.
“The Variations Project is an important construct in the Baltimore arts community.” – Broadway World
“…a freewheeling thematic hub.” – Baltimore Sun
“…a fun and worthwhile Baltimore institution.” – DC Metro Theater Arts
“The company of Rapid Lemon is engagingly versatile and highly talented, not to mention diverse, energetic and authentically committed.” – TheatreBloom
“…full of life, layers, laughter and a really, really good time.” – Maryland Theatre Guide
Variations on Desire (2005)
Directed by Carrie Klewin, Jim Knipple & Ryan Whinnem
"Variations on Courage" - Baltimore's 20th annual ten-minute play festival - BmoreArt
VARIATIONS ON CHANGE - Baltimore's 18th annual ten-minute play festival
Fresh new one-acts play ‘Variations on Courage’ from Rapid Lemon Productions
