Fringe is new every year – and this year is no exception

New venue, new events and a new home for FringeNext

Five years after it burst, somewhat quietly, on to the Mass Ave landscape, the Indianapolis Theatre Fringe Festival has

become a major highlight of the cultural calendar.

The indelible imprint it has placed upon Mass Ave comes partly from familiarity: Each year, more people are IndyFringe veterans; fewer folks require an explanation. The imprint comes, too, from annual freshness: Each year, IndyFringe brings something new to the table, such as last year when The Longest Dinner prefaced the festival, and last year when the Outdoor Stage was added to the agenda.

This year, what’s new is this:

• A new venue – Earth House – which replaces the Athenaeum, abandoned because of cost factors and the noise problems faced by stage performers competing with the live music emanating from the Athenaeum’s Biergarten.
• A sidewalk parade on Thursday, Aug. 20, to launch the festival – which official runs from Friday, Aug. 21, through Sunday, Aug. 30, with 53 productions on four Mass Ave-area stages.
• A “competitive picnic” on Saturday, Aug. 29, outside (or inside, depending on weather) the IndyFringe Building at 719 E. St. Clair St.
• The IndyFringe Building as a venue dedicated to FringeNext, another element of the festival which will feature 12 student groups. A year ago, the newly purchased IndyFringe Building was a work-in-progress, home to administrative functions but not ready for prime time performances. Now, the IndyFringe Building has emerged as an important Downtown performance venue; setting the space aside for FringeNext means that the youth productions can receive the attention IndyFringe Executive Director Pauline Moffat believes they deserve.

Moffat said the remodeled headquarters building gives the performers must more flexibility. “The building is available for rehearsals for both Fringe Next and the main fringe performers,” she said, explaining that each group can sign up for a 90 minute rehearsal. “In addition to being able to rehearse in theater space, rather than an apartment, bedroom or wherever they can find, the groups can strive to produce a quality show,” Moffat said.

She added that the festival’s technical director, Pat McCarney, is available for consultation throughout this period so that when it comes down to their tech rehearsal in their theater, the troupes will be better prepared and therefore more able to use the time for lighting and tech requirements.

“The rehearsal schedule also gives FringeNext a safe place to congregate during the long hot summer and to meet and know the other performers before the festival begins,” Moffat said.

The main element of the fifth annual event features 53 theatrical troupes (including solo acts) in 270 separate performances over the 10-day festival.

Looking at the lineup, Moffat said she likes the diversity of the IndyFringe roster. “The line up is balanced,” she said, “It is exciting because 90-percent of the shows are new works. We have storytelling including national radio host Kevin Kling. More than that, we have a group of performers who have come back to Indianapolis because they love our audiences, have great hosts in private homes or have heard from fellow Fringers that Indianapolis is a great Fringe city.”

Moffat said she is also encouraged by the two new venues – the IndyFringe Building and Earth House, “both of which will allow a new look and feel in the presentation of dance and our youth theater.”

The Indianapolis Theatre Fringe Festival has put up some impressive numbers over its first four years, with 45,000 people having attended the 848 separate productions offered by 184 local, national and international groups. This year’s festival lacks the international component, a result primarily of the world’s economic conditions which has made travel tough for performers.

Over those first four years, festival goers have purchased 33,000 tickets, with the resulting $300,000 returned directly to the performers themselves.

The lineup

“55 Minutes of Sex, Drugs and Audience Participation,” Tongue Tripping Productions of Minneapolis. Fast,

funny, emotionally honest stories of the pleasures of forbidden love, wretched excess, reckless living and making a good confession. Written by Loren Niemi and Howard Lieberman. Adult language and subject matter.

The Phoenix Theatre: Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 3 p.m.

“America’s Next Top Bottom,” Assorted Fruits and Vegetables of Indianapolis. A satirical spin-off of TV’s “America’s Next Top Model,” in which contestants vie for the title in various outrageous categories such as “Would You Know Your Best Asset If You Saw It?” and “Famous Historical Bottoms.” Co-hosted by Tiara Skanks and Jasmin Dicklessone. Written by Ron Spencer and company. Adult themes, adult language.

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Friday, Aug. 21, l0:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 9 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 3 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, l0:30 p.m.

“Andrea Merlyn’s Greatest Hits (and missus!),” Taylor Martin’s Indy Magic Monthly of Indianapolis. Taylor Martin returns his greatest hits and favorite characters. Andrea Merlyn presents “The Light and Heavy Chest,” the magic trick that stopped a war. Mdme. Esmerelda Fallendo uses the works of The Bard to cause mysterious thoughts to appear. The Drunk Girl comes back to try to figure out where all that liquid comes from. All ages are welcome. PG-13

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Friday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 1:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m.

“Another Classic of Western Literature,” Heartland Actors’ Repertory Theatre of Indianapolis. HART’s first Fringe foray and the return of Matthew Roland, creator of 2006’s hit, “Tres Freak. Starring Charles Goad, Sam Fain, and Rich Komenich as God, this merciless comedy may not be the last word on the current economic meltdown, but its producers say it will be the funniest. Adult language, loud noises.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.

“The Attack of the Big Angry Booty,” The Adventures of Les Kurkendaal of

Los Angeles. Author’s synopsis: Whether you have to lose 10 pounds or 100 pounds we all know that having to lose weight sucks. Adult content, adult language

Comedy Sportz Arena: Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 1:30 p.m.;

Monday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m.

“Blunder Construction,” Brent McCoy of Vermont. Brent McCoy is back for his third IndyFringe. Author’s synopsis: This spontaneous, hilarious, and amazing physical comedy show will have you laughing well after you’ve left the theater.  Suitable for all ages

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 1:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m.

“Broken Fragile Mind,” Motus Dance Theatre of Indianapolis. Producer’s synopsis: “I’ve lost so much.  Mother.  Father.  Will I lose my mind as well?  The root of it all rides on this.  Are they getting closer?  Are they coming for me?”  Inspired by a provocative 1930s radio broadcast, the dance company will  navigate a mind battling fear, manipulation, and a race against time.

The Earth House: Saturday, Aug. 22, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 1:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 9 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, l0:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m.

“The Cask of Amontillado,” Paul Geraci of West Lafayette. This one-act opera was written by Geraci, based on the famous Edgar Allan Poe short story. Montressor seeks revenge on Fortunato, a local wine connoisseur, and lures him into his cellars with the promise of tasting a rare vintage.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Friday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 9 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 p.m.

“Crossing the Bridge,” Leonix Movement Theatre Ensemble of Los Angeles. This work is described as a tragicomic contemplation on death, grief, and laughter, inspired by Studs Terkel’s “Will the Circle be Unbroken?” Combining highly physical feats and inspired song against a narrative background, “Crossing the Bridge” presents a brother and sister dealing with terminal illness, hospitals, and poetic absurdity that can come with impending death.

The Earth House: Friday, Aug. 21, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 p.m.

“A Cynic Tells Love Stories,” Katherine Glover of the Twin Cities, Minnesota. Seducing porn stars, falling for straight girls, saying no to a bride price of cattle.  So much experience and so little to show for it – except the stories. A comic mix of memoir, music and jaded fairy tales. Adult themes and language.

The Phoenix Theatre: Saturday, Aug. 22, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:30 p.m.

“An Evening of Stories and Song with Kevin Kling and Simone Perrin,” Kevin Kling and Simone Perrin of Minneapolis, Minn. Kevin Kling (playwright, actor and storyteller) illuminates the rich layers of love and life, featuring the voice and musical talents of Simone Perrin.

Phoenix Theatre: Friday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 9 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.

“Gone, Gone, Gone,” Monica Rodero and Daniel Schuchart of Milwaukee, Wisc. Witty and humorous Milwaukee-based dancers Rodero and Schuchart navigate sticky situations and improbable scenarios while revealing human elements of life, love and all the office supplies you can steal from work.

The Earth House: Friday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 9 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 3 p.m.

“Groundwork Suites,” Kenyettá Dance Company of Indianapolis. Designed to transform and communicate ideas that are concrete and tangible, this work is described as a mesmerizing sequence of dance works focusing on the seamless fusion of gesture and movement.

The Earth House: Saturday, Aug. 22, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:30 p.m.

“Hypothetically Stupid,” Doctor Spaceship of Indianapolis. The “to do list” includes such items as “Shave. Get milk. Wash clothes. Covet thy neighbor’s wife. Walk the dog. See an awesome sketch comedy show.”  Adult themes, adult language.

Comedy Sportz: Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 3 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.

“I Do, I Do in Delhi Or How to Survive an Indian Wedding,” 24th Street Players of New York City. Re-uniting with old college mates in New Delhi, Karenina meets cultural, psychological and physical challenges as she undergoes the arduous schedule of a son’s Indian wedding.

Phoenix Theatre: Friday, Aug. 21, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 10:30 p.m.: Sunday, Aug. 30, 4:30 p.m.

“John Hefner,” John Hefner of Washington, D.C. In this comedic true story, John Hefner –- the estranged cousin of Hugh Hefner – struggles to answer the question, “How can you make a name for yourself… when someone else already has?” Sexual situations, profanity.

The Phoenix Theatre: Friday, Aug. 21, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 p.m.

“Love Me Tender,” Randy Strand of Indianapolis. Vocalist Randy Strand still loves sappy love songs!  His performance will include covers by such artists as Andy Williams, Johnny Mathis, Barry Manilow, Elton John, the Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and, of course, Elvis Presley. Teaming up with Randy are two accomplished musicians – pianist and harp guitarist Brad Hoyt and guitarist Cutler Armstrong of Butler University.

The Phoenix Theatre: Saturday, Aug. 22, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 1:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 9 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 10:30 p.m.

“Mr. Charles, Currently of Palm Beach,” Assorted Fruits and Vegetables, of Indianapolis. Ron Spencer is “Mr. Charles, Currently of Palm Beach,” a man judged too gay for New York. Exiled to Palm Beach, Mr. Charles hosts an outrageous late night cable access show in which he hilariously decimates the notion that someone can be “too gay.” Written by Paul Rudnick. Contains gratuitous nudity and drinking of martinis.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Saturday, Aug. 22, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 10:30 p.m.

“murder, hope,” Infinity Live Productions of New York City. This new solo show is about pop-neurology, neuroplasticity, and one family’s history with the rare brain disorder called Landau-Kleffner Syndrome. Described by the author as a non-linear piece that incorporates Appalachian murder ballads, Batman, YouTube and the musical saw, it is an explosive collage of compelling ideas and off-balance characters.  Written and performed by Becky Poole and directed by Carrie Morris.

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 9 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 4:30 p.m.

“Nevermore,” Twilight Productions of Indianapolis. Described as a fantasy/drama about a sage raven resembling the “father of the macabre” and a visit he pays to a desperate writer.  Is this apparition a muse or the harbinger of death? His riddles and doublespeak present to the troubled soul what it truly means to be mad. Starring Russell McGee and written by Amy Pettinella.

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Saturday, Aug. 22, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 10:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.

“New Vaudeville,” Midwest Emerging Artists of Indianapolis. Described as old time Vaudeville in a new mode, with Elliot Feltman “the infamous emcee” of the Blue Monkey Sideshow guiding the audience u uthrough a maze of seven acts: music by Joe Welch, Flatland BMX pro Andy Cooper, hypnotizing tribal belly dance and poi performed by Molly Wyldfyre, burlesque’s own Jezebel Sinfell and Lilleth SentFranc, and award-winning comedian Ms. Pat all the way from Atlanta.

The Earth House: Saturday, Aug. 22, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 10:30 p.m.

“Phi Alpha Gamma,” Dan Bernitt of New York City. Two years after a gay-bashing scarred the fraternity’s reputation, how will the group react when a brother comes out of the closet? From the creator of “Thanks for the Scabies, Jerkface!” (IndyFringe 2007), this play is a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award in Drama. Adult content, adult language

Comedy Sportz Arena: Friday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 p.m.

“Phil the Void – The Great Brain Robbery,” Phil Van Hest of Los Angeles.

Van Hest sends this message in advance of his comedic production: “Hello, and welcome back to the place we’ve always been. I feel like the town will be just as warm as I left it last year. Thank you. I may as well tell you, your experience of this year’s show may inform the process by which you enjoy it.  You’re welcome.” Adult language.

Comedy Sportz Arena: Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 9 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:30 p.m.

“Rise,” The (Re)Collective Company of Indianapolis. The local dance troupe, which had the second-most popular show in 2008, has created an impressive new work blending the arts of music, rhythm, multimedia and dance to explore themes of air, fire, water and earth.

The Earth House: Friday, Aug. 21, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 4:30 p.m.

”The Rise of General Arthur,” Maximum Verbosity of Minneapolis. The 5th century meets the 21st as Lance-Corporal Pellinore is shipped off to Baghdad. It’s Arthur’s story – as you’ve never heard it before. Written by Phillip Andrew Bennett Low. Gunshots, mild profanity and some disturbing and violent imagery.

The Phoenix Theatre: Saturday, Aug. 22, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 10.30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m.

“Sex/Death,” Bloomington Playwrights Project, Bloomington. Celebrating the most universal subjects known to humanity, the Bloomington Playwrights Project ensemble presents a comedic showcase that whimsically walks that fine line between high art and exploitation. Producers said that “Sex/Death”  unleashes a scintillating and hilarious selection of new short plays providing the adventurous theater-goer with a visceral rush that would make Alfred Kinsey blush. Adult language, adult content.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 9 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:30 p.m.

“Sex, Dreams and Self Control,” Kevin Thornton of Nashville, Tenn. This Los Angeles Times “Best Bet” is a fusion of original music, spoken word, and standup comedy – a “sexual and romantic odyssey.” A rites of passage tale that speaks loudly about sexuality and religion. One man. One guitar. A wild ride. Presented in two parts over six nights. Adult themes, adult language

Comedy Sportz Arena: Friday Aug. 21, Part One, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, Part One, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, Part One : 9 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, Part Two, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, Part One, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, Part Two, 4:30 p.m.

“Seven (x1) Samurai,” David Gaines of Virginia. One man performs the epic story of “Seven Samurai” – complete with victimized peasants, marauding bandits, samurai warriors, and spectacular fight scene – retold at comic breakneck pace. Named “Best Solo Performance” in the D.C. Fringe 2008, and “Best of the Fest” in Orlando Fringe 2009.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Friday, Aug. 21, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 3 p.m.

“Simple Joys,” Jennifer K. Sutton of Indianapolis. An interactive, multi-media piece of dance and performance art described by the artist as featuring “simple joys, uncomplicated playfulness and innocent delights.”

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2” Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 9 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 p.m.

“Selections from the Spoon River Anthology,” Starrynight Productions of Bloomington. In the town of Spoon River, the dead have been given one final opportunity to speak to the living. Take a stroll through the graveyard and discover their secrets, heartaches, and regrets; sympathize with their guilt, anger, and sorrow; mourn with those the dead left behind; wander through the     history these individuals made through their actions. Written by Edgar Lee Masters.

The Earth House: Saturday, Aug. 22, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 10:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.

“The Stetson Manifesto,” Happy Holler Productions of Lebanon. Fueled by whiskey and Tennessee Ernie Ford records, an aging cowboy leads a revolt against a changing world of corporate culture. His protégé also faces difficult choices to retain his integrity and career.  The Stetson Manifesto is a darkly comedic, modern western in the vein of Odets and Shepard. Written by John Hamilton. Strong adult content and language, violence, loud noises, strong smells.

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 3 p.m.

“Thurgoode,” Fantaz Winnebago Productions of Indianapolis. For Charlie Parker, high school is harder than fitting in or getting good grades. Charlie has multiple-personality disorder, and her identities follow her everywhere, though no one else seems to see them. She is sent to Dr. Thurgoode to be cured, but will losing her identity truly make her happy? Adult content, adult language.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Sunday, Aug. 23, 10:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 3 p.m.

“Tortillo!,” Avenging Orange Productions of Indianapolis. Life is pretty flavorless for snack food experts Dave and Steve.  That is, until a suspiciously tasty new flavor spices things up, throwing both food fanatics into the biggest scandal to hit snacks since nacho cheese! Drug-trafficking, murder, and corruption in the stackable chips industry make for a mystery that can only be solved by those who know nothing more than snacking, and maybe a special guest or two. Written by Casey Ross. Contains adult language, loud noises, and salty snack foods.

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Saturday, Aug. 22, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 3 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:30 p.m.

“True Identity,” Firefall Dance Theatre of Indianapolis. This dance production focuses on the fact that identity is not a commodity. The troupe asks: Looking beyond the superficial, who are you?  “Dare to question and encounter as we dance, paint, discover and explore the nuances of ‘True Identity.’”

The Earth House: Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 9 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 3 p.m.

“The Tragical Ballad of Black Bonnet,” Black Forest Fancies of New Orleans. An original puppet operetta based on the true story of an “intersexed” housemaid in 16th century Scotland and Liliana, the landlord’s

lovely daughter, who fall madly in love.

An audience favorite in the 2008 New Orleans Fringe Festival and its tour to Berlin.

Theatre on the Square, Mainstage: Friday, Aug. 21, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 1:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 4:30 p.m.

“Waiting with M’Godot,” Wisdom Tooth Theatre Project of Anderson. Love, red heads, and fine wine make up the conversation between Jaxon (Nick Foreman) and the mysterious M’Godot (Kurt Owens) as Jaxon prepares to give Dani (Lisa Ermel) the “forever of his heart.” The Anderson Herald-Bulletin called this show a “magical and powerful roller coaster ride from its comic beginning to its touching ending.” Written by Ronn Johnstone.

Theatre on the Square, Stage 2: Friday, Aug. 21, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 10:30 p.m.

“Wanda & Rhonda’s Bitchin’ Bingo Bash!,” Blue Sky Productions & Arrowberry Productions of Ann Arbor, Mich., and Noblesville. Featuring local actors Adam O. Crowe and Tony McDonald as Wanda and Rhonda as “girls” who are described as no-holds-barred and a whole lotta fun. Written by Tony McDonald.

Comedy Sportz Arena: Friday, Aug. 21, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22, 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 3 p.m.

“Welcome to Blanksville: An Improvised Tribute To Choose Your Own Adventure,” IndyProv of Indianapolis. Like in the books of the 1980s and ’90s, the character’s fate lies in the hands of the audience.  With 30 possible endings, the audience will decide the adventure in this fully-improvised show.  Will the characters find romance?  Fortune? Fame?  An untimely death? A dollar? PG-13.

The Phoenix Theatre: Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.

“The Worst Show in The Fringe,” The Merely Players of Owensboro, Ky. A comedic presentation in which an angry actor kidnaps a theater critic for writing a terrible review of his show. Adult content and adult language.

Comedy Sportz Arena: Sunday, Aug. 23, 10:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 9 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 3 p.m.

“Cool Table,” Cool Table of Chicago. New material from a company of boys and two girls from the Midwest who are making their fourth IndyFringe appearance. Comedy. Adult content, adult language.

Comedy Sportz Arena: Saturday, Aug. 22, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 10:30 p.m.

FringeNext lineup

All performances at the IndyFringe Building, 719 E. St. Clair St., just east of the intersection of Mass and College

avenues.

“Check Please 2,” Young Actors Theatre. Soon after their relationship ends, Guy and Girl are forced by their well-intentioned best friends to plunge back into the dating pool. Unfortunately, that pool is filled with foot-reading psychics, frustrated polygamists, and extreme accountants. And pirates. But are the blind dates really that unbearable?

Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 4:30 p.m.

“Come See Our Show or the Teddy Bear Gets It,” by Lyndsey Brown,Kevin Burgun and Christina Cardenas of Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. If “Waiting for Godot” and “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” had a child raised in the 21st Century, it would be this play. Two girls win the Irish National Lottery; they kidnap a teddy bear when they don’t get their money. The clock is ticking. Will the teddy bear get it or not?

Saturday, Aug. 22, 1:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 p.m.

“Improvisas,” Young Actors Theatre. This version of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” is described as “crazy, fast-paced, modern and fun for the whole family.” Each scene performed is based on audience participation, so come with creativity in your mind. This show represents actors that attend schools from every side of the city whom have participated in YAT throughout the past year.

Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.

“JK: Jesting Kindly,” Cathedral High School Comedy Sportz Team.

The Weekly Widdlers of Cathedral High School present this unscripted, improvisational comedic adventure with a set storyline incorporating audience suggestions and on-the-spot dialogue.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 3 p.m.

“Love/Out,” Written by Kelly P. Lusk and presented by 1305 Theatre House. Said the author: “Sometimes love scares us. It frightens us so much that we run away from it. We choose, instead, some more peaceful-seeming love we can bear from day to day, even though it may come to bore us. And we forget what it was that made our knees buckle – until, by accident, we come across it again in the most unexpected place.”

Friday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m.

“Medea,” Michael Burke @ Butler. “Medea,” by Euripides, tells the story of a woman crossed in love by her husband, only to reveal the true color of a woman scorned on her quest for vengeance as she discovers the necessity of revenge, and its price.

Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m.

“A Piece of My Heart” by Shirley Lauro. The true stories of six courageous women sent to Vietnam and their struggle to make sense of a war that irrevocably changed them and a nation that shunned them. This work is described as having “the music and soul of a tumultuous era in our history.”

Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.

“Ready for the Future,” Mathew Davis. A performance from Mat and friends that will address the problems facing young people in the 21st Century.

Saturday, Aug. 22, 9 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:30 p.m.

“Secret Life of Girls,” The Second Story Playhouse Players. Described as an honest and unflinching dramatization of teen-girl angst, opening a window into the tumultuous and destructive world of girls’ bullying. Based upon interviews with girls, the play highlights the impact of “cyberbullying” through the use of cell phones, text and instant messaging, e-mail and chat rooms.

Sunday, Aug. 23, 6 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m.’ Saturday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m.

“Why There Are Stars in the Night Sky,” Brock Hall. The author, 2009 Young Playwright in Process winner, presents a take-off of several Greek myths, pitting god against god – each wrestling with the idea of immortality and the creation of the stars.

Sunday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m.

“Gorrest Fump and a Bunch of Other 1-Minute Plays.” Ben Davis High School Giants of Theatre. No synopsis was available for this show called by the performers “both darkly comic and lightly fragrant.”

Sunday Aug. 23, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 3 p.m.

“Every Story Has a Song” International School of Indianapolis. This cabaret-style performance is a compilation of scenes that let the audience peek into the lives of fictional characters from all walks of life. The songs are emphatic echoes of each piece.

Saturday, Aug. 22, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m.;  Friday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m.

VisualFringe opens Aug. 7 at six venues

VisualFringe – the visual arts component of the Indianapolis Theatre Fringe Festival – will be unveiled on Friday, Aug. 7, at six venues in or near the Mass Ave Art and Theater District.

A highlight of the show will take place at the Earth House, where faculty, graduate students and undergraduates from the Herron School of Art and Design will stage a show through Aug. 11.

Other VisualFringe venues include Franklin Barry Gallery at The Frame Shop, Mass Ave Wine Shoppe, Theatre on the Square, Hoaglin To Go Café and Marketplace, and Henry’s Coffee Bistro.

The non-juried show is being curated by local artist Jenny Elkins. The Herron show at Earth House will feature work in ceramics, drawing, painting, furniture design, printmaking, photography and installation.

Featured artists will include Lesley Baker, Rebecca Clune, Flounder Lee, Robin Long-Jordan, Melissa McShea, Jill Mason, Tess Michalik, Desiree Moore, Matthew Pazzol, Christine Plantenga, Danielle Riede, Emily Schnellbacher and Marx Shoemaker.

VisualFringe has partnered with the Arts Council of Indianapolis to support the BeIndypendent movement.  Be Indypendent encourages people to support what is unique to Indianapolis, including local art.

This year VisualFringe patrons will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite artwork to be designated as the 2009 Indypendent Choice which will then represent the BeIndypendent movement throughout the fall with a special sticker, web presence and advertising.

Voting will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FRINGENEXT PREVIEW

Jared Sherlock – a young magician who helped launch FringeNext three years ago, will host the first-ever FringeNext preview, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at the IndyFringe Building.

At the event, FringeNext performers will each get three minutes on stage to preview their upcoming shows.

Sherlock took part in the 2006 and 2007 FringeNext festivals, as well as the main IndyFringe festival last year. His magic is described by festival organizers as a “classy, sophisticated, intimate art form which breaks the boundaries of language and culture.”

THE LONGEST DINNER:

For the second straight year, IndyFringe will stage The Longest Dinner. The event will be staged on Thursday, August 13, along the alley next to the IndyFringe Building at 519 E. St. Clair St., just east of the intersection of Massachusetts and College avenues.

The event will run from 6 to 10:30 p.m., featuring musicians and street performers, plus food served by Mass Ave restaurants.

Tickets are $50 per person, with all proceeds benefiting IndyFringe. For more information or to reserve a seat, go to www.indyfringe.org.

OPENING FESTIVITIES

The traditional opening preview party will be staged at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, in the Outdoor Tent at the corner of Mass and College avenues – but not until a new IndyFringe event – a parade – takes place on East Street and Mass Ave.

The parade will be led by the Refried Fringe – Indy’s new Radical Marching Band. IndyFringe performers and other local groups will add to the mayhem, said festival Executive Director Pauline Moffat.

The parade will begin at two locations – Davlan Park (adjacent to Starbucks in the 400 block of Mass Ave) and Earth House (at East and New York streets in Lockerbie Central United Methodist Church).

Paraders will march north, converging at the intersection of Mass Ave and East Street to unite and travel the final two blocks to the Outdoor Tent. Viewers will be invited to join in the parade. Prizes will be awarded for “the Fringiest” and “most outrageous” outfits.

At the free opening night party, participants will see a free preview of many of the 2009 shows. Each group must entice viewers in three minutes – or “get gonged. Performers will then mingle with the audience while sitar music is performed by the Playboy Psychonauts.

Mayor Greg Ballard is scheduled to be on hand to help launch the Fringe Festival.

COMPETITIVE PICNIC

The 2009 IndyFringe will include a picnic – but, in true Fringe fashion, with a unique twist.

Titled “Outrageous Outbursts of Family Fun! Featuring Competitive Picnicking,” the event will take place from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, outside the IndyFringe Building (or inside, in case of rain).

“Competitive picnicking” is described as a large multiplayer picnic in which players trade food and drinks to assemble the tastiest, highest-scoring lunch. “Bring your lunch, but be ready to share,” organizers said.

While participants eat their lunch, family-friendly Fringe performers and street performers will perform. In addition, members of Juggle Time Fun Co. will demonstrate how to use juggle sticks.

Each family should bring one beverage, side item, sandwich and dessert per person (as well as a picnic blanket or lawn chairs). There will be four rounds of swapping and at the end the picnic masters will judge who has the best lunch. Winners will get prizes.

TRINA HAMLIN CONCERT

Touring blues artist Trina Hamlin, who packed the IndyFringe Building for a December concert, will return to Indianapolis for a Saturday, Aug. 29, performance as part of the 2009 festival.

Hamlin is known for her sizzling blues harmonica and her energy-packed singing and guitar work. More information on her work can be found at www.trinahamlin.com.

The show will begin at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 with a Fringe Backer Button.

outoor stage lineup

A day-long performance by local jazz musicians to promote the upcoming Indy Jazz Fest is just part of the action planned at the Fringe Central Outdoor Stage, to be located at the corner of Mass and College avenues and available free to anyone with an IndyFringe Backer Button.

The Outdoor Stage is a collaborative effort of IndyFringe, NUVO, Indy Jazz Fest and the Indianapolis Songwriters Café.

Friday, Aug. 21 (planned by IndyFringe)

5 p.m. – Drum circle.

6 p.m. – Pons, electroaccoustic soul music

7 p.m. – Tonas Triad.

8 p.m. – Keg Drummers.

9 -10 p.m. – ForReal Art Breakdance Battle.

Saturday, Aug. 22 (by NUVO)

5 p.m. – Pholly – Phoebe + Molly = Pholly (a high school ukulele duo cut which cut its creative teeth in the Key Strummers, Key Learning Community’s ukulele chorus).

6 p.m. – Sarah Grain.

7 p.m. – Joshua Strodtman.

8 p.m. – Cara Jean Wahlers.

9 p.m. – Ann McWilliams.

10 p.m. – Born Again Floozies.

Sunday, Aug. 23 (by Indy Jazz Fest)

At press time, performers scheduled to perform include Triology +1 featuring Rob Dixon, Seven Pleasures, Cynthia Layne and the Indy Jazz Fest Band. The schedule had yet to be announced. Updates can be found at www.indyfringe.org.

Friday, Aug. 28 (by Indianapolis Songwriters Café)

6 p.m. – Josh Lemasters

7 p.m. – Cliff Snyder Band

8 p.m. – Tad Armstrong

9 p.m. – Tim Brickley & The Bleeding Hearts

Saturday, Aug. 29 (by NUVO)

5 p.m. – Puppet Theater, a performance art group from Chicago.

6 p.m. – Lucid Street, with Bhutto-inspired performance artist Lily Emerson.

7 p.m. – Schwinntonation, hip hop acoustic experimental music played on bicycles.

8 p.m. – Local rocker Shelby Kelley.

9 p.m. – Star on the Sea.

10 p.m. – The Zane Merritt All-Stars.

Sunday, Aug. 30

Open Stage Night.

How to Fringe

Grab a Program. If you lose yours, you can find another at each of the IndyFringe box offices. Or, get the information at  www.indyfringe.org.

Pick Some Plays. Program descriptions of each production (as provided by the artists) and schedules take the guesswork out of finding the right show. Even more information can be found through the festival’s Facebook fan page (“IndyFringe”) for videos, links and other details on the performers.

Buy a Backer Button. The Fringe Backer Button is, most importantly, each visitor’s pass into the shows. Visitors must wear a Backer Button and purchase a ticket to get into a show. (Organizers point out, therefore, that fans who leave their Backer Buttons on the counter at home will be required to purchase a new one.

The button also gets visitors into the IndyFringe Outdoor Tent for free. The buttons also earn discounts at many Mass Ave businesses and makes it easy to spot other Fringers.

Backer Buttons cost $3 – and is the festival’s main source of revenue, since all ticket proceeds go directly to the artists. Buttons can be purchased in advance at several Mass Ave locations:

400 block – Silver in the City, Eye Candy and Chatterbox Jazz Club.

600 block – Arts a Poppin, Aesop’s Tables, The Frame Shop, Yats and Dean Johnson Gallery.

700 block – Mass Ave Pub.

800 block – Best Chocolate in Town and R Bistro.

Find the Fringe. Shows are staged at four venues – The Phoenix Theatre, Theatre on the Square, ComedySportz and Earth House. FringeNext performances will be performed in the IndyFringe headquarters.

Parking on IndyFringe streets is limited, but a number of parking lots can be found on the map found in the IndyFringe program.

Hear and be heard. A half hour has been built in between each performance to give visitors the chance to find out which shows are causing a stir. Festival organizers are asking audience members to share their own tips about plays. People can also log on to www.indyfringe.org to post or read audience reviews.

Still have questions? Call the festival help line at 317-522-8099 or visit the IndyFringe Building at 719 E. St. Clair St. More information is also available at www.indyfringe.org.

Several ticket options

Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and $5 for children under 12. Each audience member must also have a Backer Button ($3, bought only once) to be admitted to a show.

A $40 “Fiver Pass” (A $50 value) is also available at any box office during the festival.

Box office sales begin 30 minutes before each show, on a cash-only basis. A four-ticket limit will be enforced.

Advance-sale purchases can be made through Aug. 14 at the IndyFringe Building, 719 E. St. Clair St., from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Credit cards are accepted (except American Express). Credit card sales can also be made via telephone (522-8099) through Aug. 14.

Online sales can be made through Aug. 14 at www.indyfringe.org, accepting all major credit cards via PayPal (with a $1 fee per transaction).

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