The Boston theatre scene is small and, with each new production reviewed, I notice more and more overlap among companies; there are directors who perform as actors, costume designers dressing as patrons, and actors who mask as critics. Recently, I was delighted to be invited to a galas for the opening of a new company by one of my favourite multi-hyphenates, Mark Sickler.
Founded in 2011 by Sickler, a well-known director and actor in the Greater Boston community theatre scene, Sugar Cereal Productions presents an ambitious collaboration for the fall.
To kick off the season, Ilene A. Fischer has adapted her original screenplay, Girl Hopping, for the stage and this production looks like a real treat as Sugar Cereal Production’s first show. Boasting some of Boston’s hottest rising stars, Girl Hopping explores the lives of six lesbians living in present-day West Hollywood. “Their worlds collide in an earthquake of meddling, one night stands, folk music and potato chips”, according to Sugar Cereal’s website.
If their Sugar Rush gala is any indication of their ability to plan and execute a party, audiences are in for a sweet evening of good theater. (The gala featured numerous door prizes, commentary on the first season by Sickler, and mingling among cast, crew and theatre supporters).
Sugar Cereal Productions is also working to produce an original online soap opera, which is sure to wet any audience member’s taste buds for the fall.
Girl Hopping by Ilene A. Fischer, directed by Mark Sickler, is set for October 3, 4, 10, and 12 at 8pm, at Club Oberon in Harvard Square. An open-call for three available roles is scheduled for August 2nd at 7pm at the Calderwood Pavilion at the Boston Center for the Arts.