This has been the summer of theatrical premieres for residents of conservative Fort Wayne. The recent world premiere of the George Furth play SEX, SEX, SEX, SEX, SEX, SEX, & SEX played to sell-out audiences two weeks ago, despite virtually no publicity. Directed by Anthony award-winning director and actor Gregory Stieber, the play was an artistically satisfying experience for everyone involved, says cast member Jeffrey Moore. Furth, the Tony award-winning writer of Stephen Sondheim's COMPANY, read a play that Stieber wrote and contacted him several months ago soliciting his interest in directing his un-produced play. Although wishing his play to fly under the radar from major critics in its early stages, Furth himself was in attendance at both performances. Annette Bening was at one time in talks to star in a world premiere production of the play.

Elsewhere, another actor from the Fort is participating in a world premiere play. Brian Schilb plays a civil war re-enactor in Sarah Hammond's new play KUDZU, premiering at Trustus Theatre, a non-profit professional theatre in Columbia, South Carolina. Schilb says, "It's a dynamic script about the struggle of a modern, non-traditional family that's shattering under the shadow of the Civil War, and all of its meaning." Schilb is a former IPFW theatre major pursuing his Masters degree at USC, where he received a full fellowship.

Speaking of premieres, IPFW theatre graduate Jane Frazier stars in the revival of Kander & Ebb's first Broadway musical FLORA, THE RED MENACE. The musical not only led Kander & Ebb to Broadway, but was Liza Minnelli's first Broadway lead, earning her a first Tony. Directed by Craig Humphrey, the show premieres in Fort Wayne on August 29 and 30, 2003.

And last but not least, the Village Players of Hicksville presents the amateur theatre premiere of GILLIGAN'S ISLAND: THE MUSICAL on August 15-24, 2003. Written by Sherwood and Lloyd Schwartz with music by Laurence and Hope Juber, the show features Ft. Wayne's Molly Alberda as Ginger. Closely following the format of the Schwartz sitcom, the plot chronicles several "false-alarm" rescues and romances (although between whom these romances blossom must be kept under wraps). Tickets are $10 (adult), $8 (student), and free to children 3 and under. For more information call: (419) 542-7459.