TELL-TALE ELECTRIC POE, Returns to The Coterie

The Coterie Theatre blends horrifying with humorous in the theatre's acclaimed Tell-Tale Electric Poe based on the works of Edgar Allan Poe February 23 - March 10. The concept and adaptation of this two-person show is by Jeff Church.

ABOUT THE PLAY

In a masterful blending of actor (Hughston Walkinshaw) and musician (Rex Hobart), expertly selected Poe stories and poems are complemented by musical underscoring and retorts from a reactive electric guitar. The production overflows with poetry, riffs, ghosts and morbid prose floating in an atmospheric setting.

"I've loved working with Hughston as he takes on five distinct characters from Poe," said director Jeff Church. "It's riveting to witness how Rex Hobart on guitar can compliment Hughston's performance. It's intense fun to hear Poe's words with Rex's music!"

"In the play I've adapted for our stage, we have included The Pit and the Pendulum,The Tell-Tale Heart, as well as the poems Alone, The Bells, and The Raven. For each, Walkinshaw will play a distinct and separate character. Rex Hobart will provide underscoring that is specific to each pulse and beat, as well as provide retorts and effects that will echo man's descent into madness," he said.

Prior to its two-week run on stage at Crown Center, the Coterie's production of Tell-Tale Electric Poe will tour the Kansas City area with 24 performances in middle schools, high schools, and libraries. The tour will also include two performances at Missouri State University in Springfield.

The Coterie's production of Tell-Tale Electric Poe is for preteens and young adults. It is funded in part by the Missouri Arts Council, ArtsKC Fund, and Theatre League.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

The live production is performed by Hughston Walkinshaw with music composed and performed by Rex Hobart. The artistic and Production Company includes Jeff Church (director), Scott "Rex" Hobart (composer/set designer/technical director), Georgianna Londre (costume designer), Art Kent (lighting designer), Dan Warneke (sound), Fiona Carmody (stage manager), Ron MeGee (properties), and Brian Atkins (board operator and special effects).

SHOW DATES, TIMES & TICKETS

The Coterie Theatre, now in its 34th Season and named "One of the Five Best Theaters for Young Audiences in the U.S." by TIME magazine, will perform Tell-Tale Electric Poe February 23 - March 10, 2013, in its theater located on level one of Crown Center Shops in Kansas City, MO. Press / Opening Performances will be held on Saturday, February 23, and Sunday, February 24, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10.00 for youth under 18, students and seniors (60 and older); $15.00 for adults. Groups of 20 or more pay only $5.50 per person on weekdays and $6.50 on weekends (with advance order). Season ticket holders pay $9.00 per production when purchasing 3 or more shows. Tickets may be purchased by calling Coterie's box office at (816) 474-6552, dropping by the theater on level one of the Crown Center Shops, or by visiting www.coterietheatre.org.