10/18/24

Key City Public Theatre Celebrates Exceptional Success at the 2024 Sound on Stage Awards and Gregory Award Nomination

October 18, 2024 - boxoffice@keycitypublictheatre.org

Denise Winter, Artistic Director

Port Townsend, WA – Key City Public Theatre (KCPT) is proud to announce its extraordinary success at the 2024 Sound on Stage Awards, receiving ten prestigious nominations. This historic milestone underscores the theatre's unwavering commitment to excellence in the performing arts, innovation in storytelling, and dedication to serving the vibrant cultural community of the Pacific Northwest. In addition to this remarkable recognition, KCPT has been named a top five finalist for the Gregory Award for Organization of the Year for the West Puget Sound, further solidifying its status as a leader in the regional arts landscape.

At the heart of KCPT’s success is the critically acclaimed production Gunmetal Blues, which earned an impressive six nominations in key categories, including Best Musical, Best Direction (Brendan Chambers), Best Lead Actor (Geoffrey Simmons), Best Featured Actor (Christa Holbrook), Best Set Design (Katie Oman), and Best Lighting Design (Albert Mendez). These nominations reflect the exceptional artistic quality of the production, highlighting the collective talent of its cast and crew in bringing this unique noir-inspired musical to life.

KCPT is also thrilled to announce that it took home three major awards. Gunmetal Blues was honored with the Best Musical (People’s Choice Award), a recognition that celebrates both its artistic merit and its popularity among audiences. Additionally, Bry Kifolo, who served as stage manager for the entire 2023-2024 season, was awarded Best Stage Manager for her exemplary work across multiple productions. Her leadership, attention to detail, and organizational expertise were key to the theatre's seamless execution of its performances. Rounding out the wins was KCPT’s recognition as the recipient of the Best Theatre Experience award, which distinguishes the theatre as one of the premier cultural institutions in the Pacific Northwest.

KCPT's achievements at the 2024 Sound on Stage Awards place it alongside other highly respected institutions, including Village Theatre’s Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and 5th Avenue Theatre’s Spring Awakening. Competing against these well-known organizations further highlights the exceptional quality and impact of KCPT’s productions within the broader theatre community.

In addition to its success with Gunmetal Blues, KCPT garnered further nominations for its original productions, showcasing the theatre’s dedication to promoting new works that inspire and challenge audiences. These include Best Original Production for Living Incognegro by Gin Hammond and Best Original Production for What the Dickens?! by Doug Given. Both productions reflect the theatre’s commitment to fostering creativity, providing a platform for diverse voices, and presenting stories that resonate deeply with audiences. The theatre’s nomination (and award) for Best Theatre Experience further emphasizes its focus on ground-breaking programming that creates an inclusive and immersive environment for all who attend.

Associate Artistic Director Brendan Chambers Accepts Award for KCPT

KCPT’s recognition as a top five finalist for the Gregory Award for Organization of the Year in the West Puget Sound region is a testament to its ongoing impact on the cultural and artistic landscape. This prestigious nomination recognizes KCPT’s excellence in producing high-quality, community-driven theatre and its leadership in shaping the future of the performing arts in the Pacific Northwest.

As KCPT celebrates these tremendous achievements, the theatre expresses its deep gratitude to its loyal patrons, generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and the entire arts community. Without the steadfast support of these groups, the theatre’s continued success would not be possible. Under the leadership of Executive Artistic Director Denise Winter, who has brought more than 19 years of vision to the theatre, KCPT is committed to delivering powerful and engaging performances and, with this momentum, the company looks forward to another season filled with innovative and thought-provoking productions.

To learn more about Key City Public Theatre, explore its current 2024-25 Season, or find ways to support the theatre’s mission, please visit KCPT.CO.

9/25/24

Photo Credit: Mel Carter

Pictured: (Left to Right) Robert Winstead, Anna Mae, Casey Raiha, Ricky Spaulding

Key City Public Theatre Presents “Wild Man of the Wynoochee”: A Gripping New Folk Rock Musical Experience the Thrill of Washington State's Largest Manhunt

Port Townsend, WA — Key City Public Theatre, Sound on Stage regional award-winning Best Theatre of 2023-2024, is thrilled to announce the premiere of “Wild Man of the Wynoochee,” an electrifying new folk-rock musical by the creative duo composer/lyricist Linda Dowdell and playwright/lyricist Jessica Welsh. Set against the haunting backdrop of Washington State’s rugged wilderness, this innovative production brings to life the harrowing tale of the largest manhunt of its time in WA state. With a score that fuses folk roots with contemporary rock, audiences will be swept away by a suspenseful tale of love and loss, betrayal and survival, and the wildness in us all, set against the magnificent and mysterious backdrop of the Pacific Northwest.

Drawing inspiration from the true events that gripped the nation, “Wild Man of the Wynoochee” chronicles the dramatic pursuit of the elusive John Tornow, who became both a legend and a source of fear throughout the West Coast. Dowdell and Welsh’s poignant storytelling captures the raw intensity of this early 20th-century hunt, while their original music amplifies the stakes, creating an immersive experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Featuring a talented cast of regional performers; The Cast includes award-winning performers Casey Raiha, Christa Holbrook, and Ricky Spaulding; Musicians include Angie Tabor, Rachel Gribben, and Joey Gish. The show blends humor, heartbreak, and hope in a gripping narrative that highlights the resilience of the human spirit.

Following the theatre’s Best Musical People’s Choice Award for last spring’s Gunmetal Blues, Key City Public Theatre launches their 2024-2025 Season with the sensational new musical, Wild Man of the Wynoochee, and continues with Bake to Alaska by David A. Natale (December), The Winter’s Tale adapted from Shakespeare by Denise Winter (February/March), and Carmelita by Ana Maria Campoy (April/May).

Join us for the world premiere of Wild Man of the Wynoochee at Key City Public Theatre on October 4th, where this unique folk-rock experience promises to be both exhilarating and thought-provoking. Performances run Thurs-Sat evenings and Sunday matinees through October 27th. ASL Performance: October 13th @ 1:30 pm. Pay What You Wish Preview: October 3 @ 7:30 pm. Tickets are available now at KCPT.CO/wildman. Don’t miss your chance to witness a theatrical adventure that celebrates the wild heart of Washington’s history and the timeless power of music!

9/24/24

NEW OFFERING! Unlock Your Creative Potential: Theatre Arts Foundations for Adults with Anna Mae and Brendan Chambers

Are you curious about acting and the transformative power of storytelling through movement and voice? Join Anna Mae and Brendan Chambers for a dynamic 6-week series designed for adults seeking personal empowerment through the foundations of Theatre Arts. Set in an emotionally, culturally, and physically safe environment, this program encourages self-discovery and growth, making it perfect for both beginners and those looking to refine their skills.

Throughout the series, participants will explore essential techniques such as somatic awareness, vocal tone and projection, ensemble building, improv games, and scene work. Together, we'll learn how the expressive art of embodied storytelling can enhance our daily lives and relationships. As Shakespeare famously said, "All the world's a stage," inviting us to embrace our roles in life and the many parts we play in our own stories.

Classes will be held on Mondays from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, running from October 7th to November 11th, 2024. The registration fee includes all six sessions, covering vital topics such as the body as your instrument, intention versus impact, somatic storytelling, and culminating in a final showcase for friends, colleagues, and family. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore your creative side and connect with a supportive community. Register today at www.kcpt.co or call us at 360-385-KCPT!

9/17/24

Key City Public Theatre becomes the first recipient of the Port Townsend Sunrise Rotary’s new theater arts education scholarship created in memory of cherished local actor, community arts leader, and fellow Rotarian: Consuelo Aduviso Brennan

Photo Credit: KCPT

The leadership of Key City Public Theatre (KCPT) was extremely moved by the gracious gesture and generosity from Sunrise Rotary whose motto is “Create Hope in the World.” The named scholarship funds dedicated to our late friend and beloved artist Consuelo Aduviso, along with an additional member-recommended grant, totaled $2,500 for youth theater education. These funds fueled KCPT summer camp opportunities this summer in Chetzemoka Park for 28 students ages 1st - 6th grade, many of whom had previously been taught by Consuelo.

Consuelo Aduviso Brennan passed away on August 9, 2023, at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle after suffering a stroke in July. Consuelo was a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, director, actor, community volunteer, and friend. She was a member of the Port Townsend Sunrise Rotary herself and volunteered hundreds of hours in various roles at Chimacum schools and arts organizations.

In addition to the youth theater education scholarship in her honor, Sunrise Rotary has teamed up with the Jefferson County Health Department to periodically host a blood pressure and stroke awareness booth at the Port Townsend Farmers Market. Consuelo’s performance history at KCPT for more than a decade included REDD, AROUND THE WORLD IN LESS THAN EIGHTY DAYS, MERCY FALLS, MEN ON BOATS, WOMEN IN JEOPARDY, THE ART OF DINING, and numerous appearances in new works at PlayFest each year. She played many parts in Los Angeles theaters including East West Players, A Noise Within, Will & Company, Grupo de Teatro Sinergia Theatre, and Arroyo Repertory Theatre. Regionally she also performed with The Paradise Theatre School and Seattle’s Eclectic Theater. Consuelo’s on-camera work included “Shrill,” “3 Busy Debras,” and Wes Hurley’s “Potato Dreams of America.”

An active teaching artist, for 12 years, Consuelo taught with the Olympic Home School Connection with the Crescent School District, annually directing her students in a full-length production of a Shakespearean play. Consuelo served on the teaching staff at Key City Public Theatre for 10 years, working with our youngest students in summer camps, directing students in performance intensives, and helping to launch our immersive in-school program begun in 2022. She was a union arts worker foundational to our community and her legacy will be carried on in the hearts and minds of the next generation. If you would like to help carry on Consuelo’s legacy of professional theater arts education for our County’s youth, please contact KCPT at keycitypublictheatre.org/donate, or, to contribute to Sunrise Rotary’s named scholarship fund learn more at ptsunriserotary.org.

9/5/24

September 2024 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 360-385-5278 - ry@kcpt.co

**Key City Public Theatre garners many Sound on Stage Awards nominations for the 2023-24 Season**

Photo Credit: Greg Heilman

Port Townsend, WA – Key City Public Theatre is buzzing with excitement after receiving an unprecedented 10 nominations in the prestigious Sound on Stage Awards, marking a significant achievement in the organization’s history. These nominations highlight the exceptional talent and dedication of the entire Key City team.

The critically acclaimed production of Gunmetal Blues led the nominations with six nods:

Best Musical: Gunmetal Blues
Best Direction: Brendan Chambers for Gunmetal Blues
Best Performance - Lead Actor: Geoffrey Simmons for Gunmetal Blues
Best Performance - Featured Actor: Christa Holbrook for Gunmetal Blues
Best Set Design: Katie Oman for Gunmetal Blues
Best Lighting Design: Albert Mendez for Gunmetal Blues

In addition to Gunmetal Blues, the theater received nominations in the following categories:

Best Original Production: playwright Gin Hammond for Living Incognegro
Best Original Production: playwright Doug Given for What the Dickens?!
Best Theatre Experience: Key City Public Theatre
Best Stage Manager: Bry Kifolo for Key City Public Theatre’s Season

These nominations underscore the exceptional artistry and innovation that define Key City Public Theatre’s contributions to the regional arts scene.

We also want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our talented artist friends who have worked with us in the past and are also nominated this year, including Mark Rabe, James Rocco, Allen Fitzpatrick, and Marlette Buchanan. It is beyond humbling to be nominated up against so many prestigious regional theatres, including The 5th Avenue, Seattle Rep, and Village Theatres.

Now, help us secure the Gold! Please vote for Key City Public Theatre in the category of People's Choice Award for Musical, where you can choose our musical Gunmetal Blues for best production of the past year. Your vote can help us celebrate the artistry being nurtured in our community.

To vote go directly to: forms.gle/vUr8EnCXCsbvg8de6

You are also welcome to join two dozen KCPT artists, family, and friends on the trek down to the ceremony at Tacoma Little Theater on September 15th at 7:00 pm, details are available at www.thesoundonstage.org. Tickets are free!

Let’s come together to honor the creativity and passion that make Key City Public Theatre a cornerstone of our community. Your support not only celebrates our achievements but also fuels our commitment to bringing more exceptional theater experiences to Port Townsend. Thank you for standing with us on this incredible journey, and we look forward to sharing many more magical moments with you, our dedicated audience.

8/23/24

VOTE for us for PEOPLE'S CHOICE

Congrats to all of our Key City Public Theatre nominees for the Sound on Stage Theatre Awards! We have garnered a dazzling 10 nominations! Check out our nominations below!

For more information about the award show, please visit: https://www.thesoundonstage.org/awards

Stage Manager