Acacia News & Updates

Donations Matched 100% Until January 15th, 2009

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 22:51:30 GMT

Dear Friend of Acacia,

As you may know, Acacia Theatre Company is an independent, non-profit group of dramatic artists, who share a vision of integrating art and their Christian faith through live theater to spread the Good News. God accomplishes His ministry through many talented individuals on stage, behind the scenes, in the business office and in the theater seats.

When we think of the many gifts and gifted people that are needed to keep the ministry of Acacia going we look to God’s word to guide us. "There are different kinds of gifts but the same spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men." (I Corinthians 12:4-6)

As we approach the close of this year, we ask that you join us in this ministry of sharing the Good News through the gifts of your prayers and financial support. Pray that we will remain faithful and fearless in the ministry to which God has called us. And, if possible, consider providing financial support, of any level, to Acacia. All donations made prior to January 15th will be matched 100%.

With Christmas close at hand, we are drawn to the greatest gift of all, the gift of light and life through Jesus. Our hearts are filled with gratitude over the blessings of this year, a year of changes. Your prayers, attendance and financial support are all wrapped into the gifts of these blessings. And, we ask again, for your continued prayer and financial support so that many more will hear the Good News through the work of Acacia.

We thank you for the support you have provided. May God bless you richly as we enter this joy filled season.

Sincerely,

Acacia Theatre Company, Inc.
Board of Directors

Branching Out with Acacia - Christmas 2008

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 23:09:42 GMT

Branching Out with Acacia
Christmas 2008

A Note from the Business Manager…

I don’t know about you, but Christmas just seems to sneak up on me. One minute I’m enjoying the beautiful fall colors and the next I’m sitting with my family around the tree on Christmas morning. I remember when I was younger, December lasted forever – which was a good thing for me. I always enjoyed the anticipation of Christmas even more than the actual day. I loved shopping for people, skulking around the house to wrap the presents without being obvious about it, sneaking out at night to place them by the fireplace. It was always a thrill to do it without anyone noticing. Even Christmas morning when we opened presents was a time of anticipation. My brother and I had a system all worked out. We each took turns handing out the gifts, we waited and watched as the gift was opened, and we could not give a gift to ourselves. That made it tricky sometimes, but we always managed to make it work.

The last several years, things have been a bit different. I have been involved in our Christmas show, as well as caroling with my church, decorating the house, traveling back and forth to work, and generally keeping myself so busy that Christmas Day just crept up on me without warning. Somehow, something has been missing from my enjoyment of the season. I missed looking forward to Christmas.

I am not alone in my anticipation of Christmas; the Jews had been anticipating the birth of their Messiah for hundreds of years before he was born. The Christmas story itself is full of anticipation. The shepherds knew the baby would be found, but how many stables did they have to search before finding him? The wisemen traveled long distances to find the child. The pleasure of anticipating Christ doesn’t stop with them. Christians now look forward to Christ’s return, praying that it will come quickly.

This Christmas season, we are inviting everyone to return to the 1940s with us; an era when time itself seemed to move slower. I would encourage you to also slow down and return the wonder of anticipation to your Christmas as we remember our Savior’s birth and look forward to his coming again.

-- Melinda Rhodebeck

Keeping in Touch...

Acacia Theatre was featured on a recent segment of The Morning Blend on WTMJ channel 4. In case you missed it, check out the video on their website.

Christmas time means touring show time for many in Acacia. There are many churches and organizations in the area looking for a little something different for their parties and banquets. While Acacia provides touring shows throughout the year, the Christmas season is usually our busiest time. If you are interested in having Acacia come to you this winter, or anytime throughout the coming year, please visit our website – www.acaciatheatre.com/touring.php - for more information.

Congratulations are due for Linda Aguado as she is engaged to be married in June. The lucky man is Tom Robinson. Linda has acted for us in the past – Pilate, The Hiding Place – and has more recently been a “Stage Manager Extrordinaire”, working tirelessly on many shows during the past three seasons.

Jessica Katorski, an Acacia actress now living in St. Paul, is also engaged to be married. She performed for us in Godspell and A Time for Everything. Congratulations!

Mark DuMez, set designer from the late 1990s and director of First Church of Texaco was recently named Artistic Director of the Chemainus Theatre Festival on Vancouver Island.

The Milwaukee Rep’s A Christmas Carol is a holiday tradition for many. This year, look for Kurt Magoon’s son A.J. in the children’s ensemble. Kurt acted for us in last season’s Shadowlands.

Brian Zelinski (Bonhoffer to name just one) is in the Waukesha Civic Theatre’s production of Miracle on 34th Street. He is brilliantly lit by Dan Hummel who most recently designed the lights for The God Committee.

We continue to have a "Prayer Box" on the lobby table at each of our performances. If you have any prayer requests or praises please write them down on the cards provided and place them in the box. Please feel free to share specific people in need of these prayers. Members of Acacia meet monthly to pray, at which time we lay your requests before the Lord. Please take the time to share your prayer requests and praises with us by using this prayer box or through our website. We would love to hear from you!

Digging Deeper

Turn the calendar back to the Golden Age of Radio and set the dial for a dose of holiday nostalgia. Acacia Theatre Company will perform “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” Dec. 6-14 in Concordia University Wisconsin’s Todd Wehr Auditorium, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive in Mequon.

Written by Joe Landry, the play is inspired by the beloved Frank Capra film, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and much of play’s dialogue is drawn from the screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Capra and Jo Swerling. Cleverly presenting the story as if it was being performed in a live radio broadcast in the 1940s, the play harkens back to an era when families gathered around the radio for inspirational broadcasts and wholesome entertainment.

It’s Christmas Eve 1946 at WFBR radio in New York, and it’s time for “WFBR Playhouse of the Air.” Five savvy studio actors employ their vocal talents to play all of the characters and perform the sound effects. The “studio” audience has a role, too, joining in singing Christmas carols and providing the applause and laughter that helped make radio plays so engaging. There’s even a smattering of era-appropriate commercials to further set the mood.

Perfect for the whole family, this fresh take on the much-loved tale is a vibrant celebration of simple goodwill, community and perseverance in the face of hardship.

“What come across to me in the play, and what I think have made the film so popular, are the messages about humility and charity,” said director Elaine Rewolinski. “Those are things we all think of even more at Christmastime, and they make ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ a great way to celebrate the Christmas season.”

“The script is based on the story ‘The Greatest Gift,’ and it speaks to the need to look at your life as a great gift,” she continued. “It reminds you that, no matter what challenges you’re facing, it is a wonderful life.”

-- Jennifer Neighbors

Another Season on the Horizon…

Season mini-subscriptions to our 2008 – 2009 Season: The Ripple Effect are still available. This season features powerful plays exploring the way our actions effect those around us. This Christmas, you might consider Giving the Gift of Live Theatre with a mini-subscription for a friend or relative. What better to get for the theatre lover, or the person who has everything?

Lending a hand...

Support Acacia Theatre Company with a gift of time! Our needs are many and various; perhaps there is something you would enjoy doing. Please email (acacia@acaciatheatre.com) or call (414-744-5995) us if you would like to be part of the group of generous people who help us.

Ushers for shows
House managers for performances
Office volunteer – help with tickets, filing, mailing lists, etc.
Concession volunteers to help set up and take down concessions during productions
Preparing mailings
Organizing the storage area
Carpenters & Painters
Bakers for concessions during productions

Wishing for…

Someone to scan pictures to add to our website.

Prayer Requests...

For the health and safety of the cast and crew of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.
That God would continue to provide our theatre company a place to rehearse and perform.
That our casts, crews, and audiences would be blessed by what we do.
For those of our Acacia family who are out of jobs and looking for work.
Pray that we continue to lay everything that we do, on stage and off, at the feet of Jesus and to His glory.
That God would continue to guide us in all decisions that need to be made.
For all our Acacia family who are struggling.
That God would provide the people that Acacia needs so that we may continue serving Him.
That our financial needs would continue to be met.
For the safety of all those traveling to Concordia this winter – cast, crew, and audience.
For all those struggling during this economic crisis.

Members of Acacia meet monthly to pray, at which time we lay your requests before the Lord. Please take the time to share your prayer requests and praises with us by emailing us at prayer@acaciatheatre.com

Praise and Thanksgiving

We thank God for all those who are working so hard on our current production, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.
We continue to praise God for all those who have donated countless hours volunteering to keep Acacia going.
We thank God for all those who have donated financially to Acacia theatre.
We praise God for all those who support Acacia by being Season Subscribers. We currently have over 400 for the first time since the 1999-2000 season.
We thank God that many who were struggling with health issues are on the road to recovery.
We praise God for Concordia University and their willingness to let us rent their space.
We thank God for the generosity of Church In The City in allowing us to rehearse in their basement.
We praise God for the response to our production, The God Committee.

More opportunities to support Acacia Theatre Company...

Subscribe so that you can attend all our shows and save money in the process!
Consider bringing a group to our next production. This is a wonderful way to use our ministry to enhance yours or to just get together with friends. Descriptions of these shows are available on our website, www.acaciatheatre.com.
If you can't bring a group to a show, consider bringing us to your group! We have a variety of touring dramas available. Please visit our website, www.acaciatheatre.com, to see a listing and description of the shows. We also have brochures available in the lobby.
Although Acacia Theatre Company has been serving the Milwaukee community for twenty-five years, there are still many people that don't know about us! We have brochures and flyers on the lobby table for you to take and pass on to family, friends, pastors and neighbors. Please spread the word.
Save money AND have a percentage of your on-line purchases go to Acacia. You can even renew your magazine subscriptions at reduced rates. When shopping on the Internet, simply go through the www.iGive.com site or www.BuyForCharity.com and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to Acacia Theatre Company!
Add Acacia Theatre Company (#012900) to your "We Care" card at Pick N’ Save and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to Acacia.
Donate financially. All donations are tax-deductible. Consider donating money or stocks in honor of or in memory of someone special. A truly unique birthday or anniversary gift to the person who already has everything!
Pray for Acacia, all those who are involved with us and all who attend our productions.

Acacia presents: The God Committee, opening Oct 31st

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:56:47 GMT

The God Committee
by Mark St. Germain

October 31 - Nov 9, 2008

Medicine, money and morality clash in this cross between “Twelve Angry Men” and “ER.” When a healthy heart unexpectedly becomes available, St. Patrick Hospital’s transplant selection committee meets under extraordinary circumstances to debate who should receive it. The twists and turns of this fast moving drama probe the inner workings of an ethical decision that will literally be a matter of life and death—for both their patients and their program.

Order tickets online »

2008-2009 Season Announced

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 10:18:24 GMT

2008 - 2009 Season: The Ripple Effect

“Cast your bread upon the surface of the water and you shall find it after many days.”
Ecclesiastes 11:1

See all our shows at the special reduced rate with an Early Bird subscription »
(All titles and dates subject to availability)

The God Commitee
By Mark St. Germain
October–November 2008

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
By Joe Landry
December 6–14, 2008

Turn back the clock to the 1940s and set the dial for a dose of holiday nostalgia. This spin on a traditional favorite hearkens back to the golden age of radio when families gathered together for inspirational broadcasts and wholesome entertainment. Cleverly conceived and drawn directly from the classic film, savvy studio actors employ their vocal talents and live radio sound effects to re-imagine the much-loved tale of George Bailey’s journey of self-worth. Perfect for the whole family, revisit this vibrant celebration of simple goodwill, community, and perseverence in the face of hardship.

Emily
by Chris Cragin
February–March 2009

By the time Emily Dickinson was thirty years old, the reclusive poet never left her family home and rarely accepted visitors. “Emily” tells the poet’s story from a faith perspective, examining the striking events and relationships in the poet’s life that are possible pieces to the puzzle of her unusual life (or seclusion?) Woven through this gentle story, Dickenson’s poetic voice offers a glimpse of her true self, her passionate faith, vigorous intellect, and her wounded heart.

The Great Divorce
Adapted from the book by C.S. Lewis (pending permission)
May 2009

Take a seat on C.S. Lewis’s memorable bus ride through both Heaven and Hell in this engaging allegorical tale. Using his extraordinary imagination and descriptive powers, Lewis introduces us to supernatural beings in an unfamiliar world where conscience is magnified and faults personified. This wild ride through the Hereafter will forever change your outlook on life in the Here and Now.

Little Women
Music by Jason Howland; Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein; Book by Allan Knee
Based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott
July 2009

Join the remarkable March sisters: Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy, as one of America’s most beloved books soars to the stage. Seen on Broadway in 2005, this dazzling new musical, based on Louisa May Alcott’s timeless tale about the power of family, friendship and romance, is capturing the hearts of a new generation and captivating audiences of all ages! Don’t miss this “richly sentimental favorite” with family-friendly appeal.

Branching Out with Acacia - Spring 2008

Thu, 15 May 2008 19:32:46 GMT

Branching Out with Acacia
Spring 2008

Keeping in Touch...

We are very excited to announce that Melinda Rhodebeck will be Acacia’s new business manager. Melinda has been working as a Stage Manager and Assistant Stage Manager for the last two years at Acacia. Melinda and Lynn will be working together through the remainder of this season.

A big congratulations goes out to Ryan Schaufler and Lori Woodall, who are expecting a baby girl in September. You may remember Ryan and Lori from Pilate. Lori also directed our production, The Women of Lockerbie.

Congratulations to Jason and Danielle Miller, who are expecting their second child in October. Danielle (formerly York) portrayed Jane in our production of Jane Eyre.

Jason and Danielle Miller were also just accepted into the ministry of International Teams USA and they intend to begin training with International Teams in early June. Jason is currently attending the International Leadership Forum in the Philippines. Jason was last seen on our stage in The Hiding Place.

Elaine Wyler is directing Little Women at Waukesha Civic Theatre. Kurt Magoon, who is in our current production of Shadowlands, and Jeff Porter, who is in our touring show Ruth are in the show. Elaine played Johnny in Deadheading Roses and Mrs. Graves in Enchanted April. She most recently directed Acacia’s production of The Body & The Wheel.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Franzen family. Eric Franzen has recently passed away. Eric and his wife, Lindy were involved in the early days of Acacia.

Two musicians from our production of The Spitfire Grill, Fred Pike, who played guitar and mandolin, and Tom Kanack, who played accordion, will be performing in Skylight Opera's production of The Spitfire Grill.

Look for articles about our current production, Shadowlands, in MequonNOW.com, OakCreekNow.com, MyHalesCornersNow.com and WauwatosaNow.com.

Listen to WUWM’s Lake Effect program Thursday morning (10 - 11am) to hear an interview with Janet Bouman Peterson, Michael Chobanoff and Maureen Dornemann about Shadowlands. The interview may also be heard on their website, wuwm.com.

We continue to have a "Prayer Box" on the lobby table at each of our performances. If you have any prayer requests or praises please write them down on the cards provided and place them in the box. Members of Acacia meet monthly to pray, at which time we lay your requests before the Lord. Please take the time to share your prayer requests and praises with us by using this prayer box or through our online form. We would love to hear from you!

Digging Deeper

Shadowlands is William Nicholson’s moving and warmly humorous love story about the renowned author and theologian C.S. Lewis and the American poet Joy Davidman Gresham. This heartfelt drama provides a greater understanding of compassion, love and Lewis. At the play’s outset, Lewis is comfortable living the life of a bachelor literature professor at the University of Oxford. His quiet academic life is disrupted by the arrival of Joy, who is brash, is his intellectual equal, and has a mind of her own. The two unexpectedly fall in love and eventually marry. When faced with the pain of Joy’s death, Lewis’ Christian faith is tested and he must address a question that was before only academic – How can a loving and almighty God allow there to be suffering and pain in the world?

“Lewis struggles with his grief and struggles with God,” said Janet Bouman Peterson, who played Joy in Acacia’s 1994 production of the play and is directing the current staging. “He questions why God would allow him and Joy to suffer so much. But he holds on to God, though it’s a tenuous hold at times, and comes through still believing.”

“The play doesn’t wrap it up in a neat little bow,” she continued. “It says, ‘Go ahead and question and have your doubts, but hold on to that string.’ It’s a good place to begin the discussion.”

Romance and humor bring welcome warmth to the tale. “It’s a story of an unexpected romance and the journey that Lewis and Joy take together,” Peterson said. There are some wonderfully funny moments, particularly surrounding Lewis’ awkwardness as their relationship begins to bloom.”

Nicholson draws from two of Lewis’ well-known writings on the topic of pain – the theoretical “The Problem of Pain,” which was written long before Lewis and Joy met, and the introspective “A Grief Observed,” Lewis’ journal chronicling his grief over Joy’s death. Audiences will also note allusions and references to Lewis’ famed “The Chronicles of Narnia” series.

Nicholson originally wrote Shadowlands as a television movie for the BBC. He later adapted it for the live stage and, eventually, for the 1993 feature-length film that starred Sir Anthony Hopkins as Lewis and Debra Winger as Joy. Fans of the film will find that it closely followed the plot and language of the stage play.

-- Jennifer Neighbors

Another Season on the Horizon…

Our 2008 – 2009 Season will be unveiled during Shadowlands. Watch for the Early Bird Special Form at the show.

Lending a hand...

Support Acacia Theatre Company with a gift of time! Our needs are many and various; perhaps there is something you would enjoy doing. Please email () or call (414-744-5995) us if you would like to be part of the group of generous people who help us.

Bakers for concessions during productions
Ushers for shows
House managers for performances
Concession volunteers to help set up and take down concessions during productions
Preparing mailings
Organizing the storage area
Carpenters & Painters
Internet surfers

Wishing for…

Garment Rack on wheels
A Portable CD player that we may use during rehearsals.
Someone to scan pictures to add to our website.
Bookcases that are 5-6’ tall
Matching “Shield back” Chairs (3 or 4 of them)

Prayer Requests...

The Bible verse for this year's season is "Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good." Please pray that we allow Christ into all situations, good and bad, so that we may be overcomers.
For the health and safety of the cast and crew of Shadowlands.
That our casts, crews, and audiences would continue to be blessed by what we do.
For many people to be blessed by our production of Shadowlands.
That God would continue to guide us in all decisions that need to be made.
For all our Acacia family who are struggling.
That God would provide the people that Acacia needs so that we may continue serving Him.
Pray that we continue to lay everything that we do, on stage and off, at the feet of Jesus and to His glory.
That God would continue to provide our theatre company a place to rehearse and perform.
To walk uprightly, to keep the words of our mouth in check and committed to only the Truth, to be unified, and to be firm in who we are in Him, that we may never be shaken (based on Psalm 15).
That our financial needs would continue to be met.

Members of Acacia meet monthly to pray, at which time we lay your requests before the Lord. Please take the time to share your prayer requests and praises with us by emailing us at .

Praise and Thanksgiving

We thank God for all those who are working so hard on our current production, Shadowlands.
We continue to praise God for all those who have donated countless hours volunteering to keep Acacia going.
We thank God for all those who have donated financially to Acacia theatre.
We praise God for all those who support Acacia by being Season Subscribers.
We thank God that many who were struggling with health issues are on the road to recovery.
We praise God for Concordia University and their willingness to let us use their space.
We thank God for the generosity of Church In The City in allowing us to rehearse in their basement.
We praise God for the response to our production, Blessed Assurance.

More opportunities to support Acacia Theatre Company...

Subscribe so that you can attend all our shows and save money in the process!
Consider bringing a group to our next production. This is a wonderful way to use our ministry to enhance yours or to just get together with friends. Descriptions of these shows are available on our website, www.acaciatheatre.com.
If you can't bring a group to a show, consider bringing us to your group! We have a variety of touring dramas available. Please visit our website, www.acaciatheatre.com, to see a listing and description of the shows. We also have brochures available in the lobby.
Although Acacia Theatre Company has been serving the Milwaukee community for twenty-five years, there are still many people that don't know about us! We have brochures and flyers on the lobby table for you to take and pass on to family, friends, pastors and neighbors. Please spread the word.
Save money AND have a percentage of your on-line purchases go to Acacia. You can even renew your magazine subscriptions at reduced rates. When shopping on the Internet, simply go through the www.iGive.com site or www.BuyForCharity.com and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to Acacia Theatre Company!
Add Acacia Theatre Company (#012900) to your "We Care" card at Pick N’ Save and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to Acacia.
Donate financially. All donations are tax-deductible. Consider donating money or stocks in honor of or in memory of someone special. A truly unique birthday or anniversary gift to the person who already has everything!
Pray for Acacia, all those who are involved with us and all who attend our productions.

Branching Out with Acacia - Winter 2008

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 04:59:24 GMT

Branching Out with Acacia
Winter 2008

Keeping in Touch...

A big congratulations goes out to Sara & Adam York who gave birth to a beautiful baby, Kayla Faith ("crown of faith") in November. You may remember Sara (formerly Van Eerden) from Bonhoeffer. Both Mom & baby are healthy and happy.

Congratulations also to Drew & Erin Burgoyne: Noah Carl was born Feb. 8th. Erin (formerly York) was in our production of Joyful Noise. Everything went well and they are praising God for Noah's safe arrival.

We are very excited to announce that Stephanie & Gregg Smith are expecting again! This will be their third child. Stephanie was last seen on the Acacia stage in The Liar.

Alan & Mary Ellen Atwood are running Kenu Christian Artists' Camp (ages 15 - 24), located in northern Wisconsin, from June 15 through July 12, 2008. They have classes in voice, string instruments, acting, writing, film and dance. Check it out at www.kenuchristianartistscamp.com. Alan & Mary Ellen founded Acacia Theatre in the 1980s. Mary Ellen recently appeared in The Spitfire Grill and portrayed Corrie ten Boom in Acacia's production of The Hiding Place.

Anne Miller and Maureen Dornemann, both last seen in Enchanted April, are currently featured in the Boulevard Theatre ’s production Catholic School Girls by Casey Kurtti. The show runs February 20-March 16, and tickets are available by calling the Boulevard at (414) 744-5757.

Elizabeth Doll is still recovering from back surgery. She is doing well and sends her love to her Acacia family. She was most recently in Jane Eyre.

Brad & Lynn Winkler will be moving to Texas after this season. Brad was last in The Women of Lockerbie, and last directed Enchanted April. He has also created all Acacia’s season brochures and postcards for the last several seasons as well as creating all the ads you may have seen in various papers. Lynn Winkler has been Acacia’s business manager since September of 2002. They will miss Acacia very much, but look forward to warmer weather!

We continue to have a "Prayer Box" on the lobby table at each of our performances. If you have any prayer requests or praises please write them down on the cards provided and place them in the box. Members of Acacia meet monthly to pray, at which time we lay your requests before the Lord. Please take the time to share your prayer requests and praises with us by using this prayer box or through our online form. We would love to hear from you!

"True artists pursue greatness in craft in order to give the Lord the best fruit of the talent He has given them, not to build themselves up. They understand that true greatness is found in the heart of the servant." - Charlie Peacock

Digging Deeper

Though set in Mississippi during the turbulent Freedom Summer of 1964, “Blessed Assurance” addresses issues that Americans are still struggling with today. This powerful drama portrays the quiet heroes of the civil rights movement trying their best to overcome a world forcing them to make difficult decisions.

“This play deals with topics that are sensitive for people of all races and issues that we’re still wrestling with in Milwaukee and in American society,” said director Dustin J. Martin. “It’s ultimately a story about granting another human being the respect he or she is owed.”

At the outset of the play, Olivia, the black cook of the Whitehouse café, has shocked the residents of Sunflower County, Miss. by marching up the courthouse steps and demanding to register to vote. Her actions set off a firestorm in which Olivia and those closest to her are forced to confront the hatred, ignorance and injustice of the town.

Olivia’s love interest, Lewis, is a gentle spirit who represents the don’t-stir-up-trouble mentality of many in the town’s black community. Slick, a troubled young white man, shares the opinion held by many of the town’s white residents – that their black neighbors should not have the right to vote.

Harlan, the white owner of the café, is torn between his concern for the safety of the woman who is like a mother to him and his fear of how the town will perceive him if he supports her. He accuses her of listening to outside agitators and following along “like cows being led to slaughter.” This incites Olivia to challenge his beliefs, and his allegiance to her, by sitting at the counter of the café and asking to be served. When Harlan asks what she is doing, she responds, “I think they call it a sit-in!”

“I hope this play will lead audience members to examine how they feel and think about people outside their race and, hopefully, discover that all people are due respect and ought to be loved,” Martin said. “In the play, that love and respect are represented as the right to vote, but it goes deeper than that. It’s about equality and not having fear.”

“The play tackles racial issues in a respectful manner,” he added. “It’s important to have works of art like this. They’re a kind of mirror, helping all of us look at our attitudes and why we feel the way we do, and then forcing us to talk about what we can do to fix things that need to be fixed.”

-- Jennifer Neighbors

Lending a hand...

Support Acacia Theatre Company with a gift of time! Our needs are many and various; perhaps there is something you would enjoy doing. Please email () or call (414-744-5995) us if you would like to be part of the group of generous people who help us.

Bakers for concessions during productions
Ushers for shows
House managers for performances
Concession volunteers to help set up and take down concessions during productions
Preparing mailings
Organizing the storage area
Data entry
Carpenters & Painters –call now for opportunities to help create “The Women of Lockerbie” and earn free tickets.
Internet surfers

Wishing for…

Season subscribers
A Portable CD player that we may use during rehearsals.
Someone to scan pictures to add to our website.
Bookcases that are 5-6’ tall

Prayer Requests...

The Bible verse for this year's season is "Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good." Please pray that we allow Christ into all situations, good and bad, so that we may be overcomers.
For the health and safety of the cast and crew of Blessed Assurance.
That our casts, crews, and audiences would continue to be blessed by what we do.
For many people to experience Blessed Assurance.
That God would continue to guide us in all decisions that need to be made.
For all our Acacia family who are struggling.
That God would provide the people that Acacia needs so that we may continue serving Him.
Pray that we continue to lay everything that we do, on stage and off, at the feet of Jesus and to His glory.
That God would continue to provide our theatre company a place to rehearse and perform.
To walk uprightly, to keep the words of our mouth in check and committed to only the Truth, to be unified, and to be firm in who we are in Him, that we may never be shaken (based on Psalm 15).
That our financial needs would continue to be met.

Members of Acacia meet monthly to pray, at which time we lay your requests before the Lord. Please take the time to share your prayer requests and praises with us by emailing us at .

Praise and Thanksgiving

We thank God for all those who are working so hard on our current production, Blessed Assurance.
We continue to praise God for all those who have donated countless hours volunteering to keep Acacia going.
We thank God for all those who have donated financially to Acacia theatre.
We praise God for all those who support Acacia by being Season Subscribers.
We thank God that many who were struggling with health issues are on the road to recovery.
We praise God for Concordia University and their willingness to let us use their space.
We thank God for the generosity of Church In The City in allowing us to rehearse in their basement.

More opportunities to support Acacia Theatre Company...

Subscribe so that you can attend all our shows and save money in the process!
Consider bringing a group to our next production. This is a wonderful way to use our ministry to enhance yours or to just get together with friends. Descriptions of these shows are available on our website, www.acaciatheatre.com.
If you can't bring a group to a show, consider bringing us to your group! We have a variety of touring dramas available. Please visit our website, www.acaciatheatre.com, to see a listing and description of the shows. We also have brochures available in the lobby.
Although Acacia Theatre Company has been serving the Milwaukee community for twenty-five years, there are still many people that don't know about us! We have brochures and flyers on the lobby table for you to take and pass on to family, friends, pastors and neighbors. Please spread the word.
Save money AND have a percentage of your on-line purchases go to Acacia. You can even renew your magazine subscriptions at reduced rates. When shopping on the Internet, simply go through the www.iGive.com site or www.BuyForCharity.com and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to Acacia Theatre Company!
Add Acacia Theatre Company (#012900) to your "We Care" card at Pick N’ Save and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to Acacia.
Donate financially. All donations are tax-deductible. Consider donating money or stocks in honor of or in memory of someone special. A truly unique birthday or anniversary gift to the person who already has everything!
Pray for Acacia, all those who are involved with us and all who attend our productions.

Shadowlands Auditions

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:21:56 GMT

Acacia Theatre Company will be holding auditions on Saturday, February 16th between 9:00-1:00 for its upcoming production of Shadowlands, directed by Janet Bouman Peterson. Cast consists of 6M and 2W (25-60) and 1 boy. Readings will be from the script. Please be prepared to provide all "conflicts" from March 24-May 19. Performances (5/9/08 - 5/19/08) will be at Concordia University in Mequon. Auditions will be by appointment only at Church in the City, 2648 N. Hackett, Milwaukee. To make an appointment call 414-744-5995 or email acacia@acaciatheatre.com.

Scripts of Shadowlands by William Nicholson are available at several public libraries.
If needed: Callbacks will be Monday evening, February 18th. (If unable to attend, please still come to initial audition)
Rehearsals are at Church in the City.

Acacia presents "Blessed Assurance" by Laddy Sartin

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 08:43:00 GMT

Blessed Assurance
by Laddy Sartin

February 29 – March 9, 2008

In the turbulent Freedom Summer of 1964, Olivia, the cook for the Whitehouse cafe, has shocked her small southern town by marching up the courthouse steps demanding to register to vote. Her choice to stand up for her rights forces those closest to her to confront the hatred, ignorance, and injustice of the town. This powerful drama portrays the quiet heroes of this troubled time trying their best to overcome a world forcing them into difficult decisions.

Order tickets online »

Acacia presents A Girl, A Mirror, and a Magician

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 11:32:27 GMT

Acacia presents A Girl, A Mirror, and a Magician by Ardan James - The Animated Illusionist ®.

A.J., the Animated Illusionist brings the wonder of Christmas to life in a tale for the whole family. A lonely girl finds the ultimate connection through God's love in this unique blend of theatre, dance and comic illusions that will bring both laughter and tears.

Performances are December 1-9 at Concordia University's Todd Wehr Auditorium.

Order tickets online or call (414) 744-5995.

Acacia Mini-Subscriptions are now available!

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 11:27:16 GMT

Didn't get your subscription to our 2007-2008 Season in on time? You can still save on tickets to the remaining three shows of the season:

Blessed Assurance
Shadowlands
Pride & Prejudice

...with a 2007-2008 Mini-Subscription! Plus, as a season subscriber, receive an unlimited number of tickets at the reduced rate of $7.00 for our upcoming Christmas show, A Girl, A Mirror, and a Magician.

Mini-subscriptions are available now for only $39.
Download the printable order form, or call us at (414) 744-5995.

"The Women of Lockerbie" opens tonight!

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 09:58:46 GMT

The Women of Lockerbie
by Deborah Brevoort

October 26 – November 4, 2007

A family from New Jersey searches for closure from the loss of their son, as the women of Lockerbie, Scotland, cope with the aftermath of the tragic Pan Am 103 plane crash. This emotionally stirring and ultimately uplifting portrayal of the triumph of love over hatred resonates strongly with a powerful message for today’s world.

Tickets & Showtimes »

Branching Out With Acacia - Autumn 2007

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 09:55:51 GMT

The autumn issue of Branching Out is available at acaciatheatre.com. Stay up to date with all the latest Acacia news.

Society Sunday at Pizzeria Piccola

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 22:18:57 GMT

Come to Pizzeria Piccola from 4pm - 9pm on Sunday, September 9th. Enjoy wonderful pizza or pasta served to you by Acacia volunteers and mingle with Acacia friends. You can also pre-order frozen pizzas or phone in your order to take home.

A portion of the night's proceeds along with all tips goes to support Acacia Theatre Company, so please bring your family and friends!

Visit www.pizzeriapiccola.com for directions and a copy of the menu.

Pizzeria Piccola
7606 W. State St.
Wauwatosa, WI 53226

Vote for Acacia on WISN.com!

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 22:13:36 GMT

Vote for Acacia on WISN.com's A-List for Milwaukee's Best Theatre Group!

'The Spitfire Grill' opens this weekend!

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 10:39:30 GMT

Acacia's summer production, 'The Spitfire Grill' opens 8pm Friday, July 13th at Concordia University's Todd Wehr Auditorium. Visit acaciatheatre.com for tickets and showtimes.

Branching Out With Acacia - Summer 2007

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 10:36:46 GMT

The summer issue of Branching Out is available at acaciatheatre.com. Stay up to date with all the latest Acacia news.

"The Spitfire Grill" Radio Spot

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 23:44:27 GMT

Visit www.acaciatheatre.com to listen to the radio spot for Acacia's upcoming production: "The Spitfire Grill".

Early Bird Special Ends Saturday

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 23:41:44 GMT

If you plan to subscribe to Acacia’s 2007-2008 Season: Shattering The Darkness, don’t miss out on this incredible bargain.

You will receive a ticket to each of the four shows at an incredibly reduced rate and you can get up to 20 Christmas tickets at $7.00 each instead of the usual $10.00. If you intend to bring the whole family to the Christmas show this could add up to an incredible deal!

Subscribe now at www.acaciatheatre.com
Offer ends Saturday, June 30th.

Tickets for "The Spitfire Grill" now available

Sat, 16 Jun 2007 02:37:54 GMT

The Spitfire Grill
Music/book by James Valcq, Lyrics/book by Fred Alley
Based on the film by Lee David Zlotoff

July 13 – 22, 2007

In this honest and unassuming fable with soul-stirring folk music, a feisty young woman fresh out of prison brings a second chance at hope in life to the residents of a small and dispirited rural Wisconsin town. While working together in Gilead ’s only cafe, she and her new friends rediscover their joy amid the autumn ’s "colors of paradise."

Reserved seating. Reserve your tickets online or call (414) 744-5995.

Acacia's Christmas Show Announced

Sat, 16 Jun 2007 02:34:22 GMT

Acacia Theatre presents Ardan James, the Animated Illusionist's "A Girl, A Mirror and a Magician".

A.J., the Animated Illusionist brings the wonder of Christmas to life in a tale for the whole family. A lonely girl finds the ultimate connection through God's love in this unique blend of theatre, dance and comic illusions that will bring both laughter and tears.

Coming this Christmas.

2007-2008 Season announced!

Tue, 22 May 2007 08:40:45 GMT

Announcing Acacia Theatre's 2007-2008 Season: Shattering the Darkness. Save by ordering season tickets during our Early Bird special.

Receive Acacia news and updates via RSS

Tue, 22 May 2007 08:37:54 GMT

acaciatheatre.com is now RSS-capable. Subscribe to our feed to receive all the latest news and updates.

Spring 2007 Branching Out

Fri, 11 May 2007 21:39:14 GMT

The spring edition of Branching Out with Acacia is now available online.

Contribute to our new fund-raising campaign

Fri, 11 May 2007 21:23:38 GMT

Help us increase our ability to pay our staff, casts and crews as well as improve our production and advertising budgets.

Jane Eyre, Little House, and The Body & the Wheel photos

Fri, 11 May 2007 21:22:23 GMT

New production photos from Jane Eyre, Little House by the Shores of Silver Lake and The Body & the Wheel can be found in the Production Gallery.

Deadheading Roses tickets now available online

Fri, 11 May 2007 21:20:16 GMT

Purchase tickets for Acacia's upcoming production, Deadheading Roses. The show runs Friday, May 11th through Sunday, May 20th, 2007.

Acacia News & Updates

Donations Matched 100% Until January 15th, 2009

Branching Out with Acacia - Christmas 2008

Branching Out with Acacia Christmas 2008

A Note from the Business Manager…

Keeping in Touch...

Digging Deeper

Another Season on the Horizon…

Lending a hand...

Wishing for…

Prayer Requests...

Praise and Thanksgiving

More opportunities to support Acacia Theatre Company...

Acacia presents: The God Committee, opening Oct 31st

2008-2009 Season Announced

2008 - 2009 Season: The Ripple Effect

Branching Out with Acacia - Spring 2008

Branching Out with Acacia Spring 2008

Keeping in Touch...

Digging Deeper

Another Season on the Horizon…

Lending a hand...

Wishing for…

Prayer Requests...

Praise and Thanksgiving

More opportunities to support Acacia Theatre Company...

Branching Out with Acacia - Winter 2008

Branching Out with Acacia Winter 2008

Keeping in Touch...

Digging Deeper

Lending a hand...

Wishing for…

Prayer Requests...

Praise and Thanksgiving

More opportunities to support Acacia Theatre Company...

Shadowlands Auditions

Acacia presents "Blessed Assurance" by Laddy Sartin

Acacia presents A Girl, A Mirror, and a Magician

Acacia Mini-Subscriptions are now available!

"The Women of Lockerbie" opens tonight!

Branching Out With Acacia - Autumn 2007

Society Sunday at Pizzeria Piccola

Vote for Acacia on WISN.com!

'The Spitfire Grill' opens this weekend!

Branching Out With Acacia - Summer 2007

"The Spitfire Grill" Radio Spot

Early Bird Special Ends Saturday

Tickets for "The Spitfire Grill" now available

Acacia's Christmas Show Announced

2007-2008 Season announced!

Receive Acacia news and updates via RSS

Spring 2007 Branching Out

Contribute to our new fund-raising campaign

Jane Eyre, Little House, and The Body & the Wheel photos

Deadheading Roses tickets now available online

Branching Out with Acacia
Christmas 2008

Branching Out with Acacia
Spring 2008

Branching Out with Acacia
Winter 2008