-Mary Ryan (
Showing posts with label Late Nite Catechism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Late Nite Catechism. Show all posts
Thursday, September 9, 2010
PRAISE for Late Nite Catechism in Vegas
-Mary Ryan (
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
NEW Late Nite Catechism Show!
For over 14 years Sister has been winning the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
She has been seen Off-Broadway and around the US in Late Nite Catechism, Sister Strikes Again!: Late Nite Catechism 2, 'Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3 and Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold.
Now Entertainment Events is proud to present the latest version of the sinfully funny series. Sister's next Holiday classic will be...
Sister's Easter Catechism:
Will My Bunny Go to Heaven?
Will My Bunny Go to Heaven?
Celebrate the Easter Season with Sister as she answers the time worn questions of the season like “Why isn't Easter the same day every year like Christmas?” and “Will My Bunny Go To Heaven?” Part pageant, and wHOLY hysterical, this latest of the sinfully funny Late Nite Catechism series unearths the origins of Easter bunnies, Easter eggs, Easter bonnets, Easter baskets, and of course those yummy Easter Peeps. Sister answers questions about pet heaven and the significance of those adorable baby chicks! Classroom participation is a must, so don’t forget to wear your Easter bonnet and join Sister for this seasonal treat!
Sister's Easter Catechism: Will My Bunny Go to Heaven? is currently available for Professional engagements and Off-Site Fundraisers!
FOR MORE MORE INFO CALL 877-FUNNY-NUN
Contact Entertainment Events to Book your Sister today!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
"Brace Yourself for a Catechism Event"
REVIEW: Late Nite Catechism
Riverfront Times – 9/24/2004 – Denna Jent
"Any Questions? Brace yourself for a catechism event.
Class is back in session, and Sister is in rare form, Late Nite Catechism, written by Vicki Quade and Maripat Donovan, is a life lesson if you don’t want to miss, Mary Beth Burns, a veteran of Chicago’s Second City Improv tours, is clearly in her element in this one-woman show, a combination of religious instruction, audience interaction, and game-show antics, this Catechism is a widely witty and slightly scary encounter with the myths and realities of Catholicism.
Class begins with Sister greeting the audience as her adult catechism class, chastising gum chewers and offering fashion advice, 'Ask yourself, 'I wonder if Mary, Mother of God, would have picked this outfit out?'' She reminisces about the heyday of Catholicsm (the Baby Boom), when the Catholic schools were overflowing. The sweeping changes wrought by Vatican II, when 'they turned the priest around to see the people, like a cooking show' and eliminated the requirement for nuns to dress in black habbits, reduced the power of the church (in Sister’s opinion). But this Vatican criticism is touched on lightly. Mostly sister touches some basic Catholic facts: the Immaculate Conception (or 'the immaculate MISconception'), Easter duty, and collecting money to save pagan babies.
The delight of the show is Burns’ constant iteration with her audience. Whispers are called to order. Latecomers are fined. Everyone must address Sister in full sentences, and prizes are awarded for good behavior. In one of the funniest moments of the evening, when a person offered a response that was nearly correct, Sister urged her on with: 'If you can answer that question using the word ‘stain,’ I’ll upgrade you from the two-inch statue of Mary to the five-inch statue!' (The person could, and did receive her prize upgrade.)
- Mary Beth Burns
A key portion of the show is an audience vote for which saints get to stay on the roster and which get laid off' 'Thumbs up – stay a saint; thumbs down – not a saint!'Peppering her descriptions of the saints with hilarious side comments ('You can forget about the Neosporin – stigmata’s never heal!'). Burns skillfully works the audience. A lesson on the proper use of St. Joseph statue to sell your house leads seamlessly into a biblical puzzler, which segues effortlessly into a discussion of evolution.
The most intriguing portion of the show comes when Sister brings out a little chair she’s constructed out of rules broken in disciplining boys (because 'Boys are bad and girls are good,' she reminds us). 'How many of you got whacked?' she asks, and a dozen or hands raise immediately. Whacking stories follow (the third grade was definitely a tough year for many kids in Catholic schools), and Sister graciously opens up the floor for a Q&A. On this night the questions are rather tame: 'Why didn’t you talk about St. Louis?' and 'Why do Catholics eat fish on Fridays?' It would have been interesting to see someone ask a gritty question, like what Sister thinks about women who want to be priests who abuse children – but perhaps that’s pushing this show beyond its whimsical boundaries.
With so much of each performance depending on audience stories for fuel, Late Nite Catechism is clearly different each night, and Burns seems to relish that. Her twinkling eyes search the audience for new material even as she works details from earlier stories into running gags. She’s obviously an expert in Catholicism and Chicago – her ability to throw Catholic trivia into impromptu discussions is impressive, while her authentic accept is apt make you crave a Lou Malnati’s deep-dish pizza and a glass of pop.
Sister ends the night on a philosophical note, discussing the 'leap of faith'required to be a believer. Why she worries that the Catholic Church may be in limbo, it’s clear that Late Nite Catechism is in a much more secure place. It’s a heavenly meeting of humor and faith that’s relevant regardless of your religious beliefs.
But don’t be late, spit out your gum and bone up on your ejaculations. (Don’t worry, Sister will teach you how.)"
TO BUY TICKETS & MORE INFO CALL 877-FUNNY-NUN
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for fundraisers and professional engagements. Contact Entertainment Events today to Book your Sister!
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
"Sister" Zentmyer discusses Sean Hayes
About the Author Mary Zentmyer has been playing the role of "Sister" in Late Nite Catechism: The Series for 14 years. In this blog entry she discusses her connection to the star of "Will & Grace,"Broadway's Promises, Promises and recent host of the 2010 Tony Awards."I did children's theatre with Sean Hayes back in "the day," long before "Will & Grace." He was the actor who made everybody else LAUGH every morning, and he would play the piano for the other actors, when they had audition pieces to work on. He played The Mad Hatter and The Caterpillar when I played a Fashion Flower and The Queen of Hearts, in Alice in Wonderland, at Pheasant Run Theatre, in St. Charles, IL. What I remember are his SKINNY legs, in that purple — yes, purple — not green, caterpillar costume. I did several kids' shows with Sean in the early '90's, before he went out to L.A. — like '91 and '92... He was the best — just naturally FUNNY, and really NICE to work with. I believe that Sean was born a HOOT! Everyone loved him.
xoxo, You, go, Crazy Sean! Love, Mary Z."
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for fundraisers and professional engagements.
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
SHOW SPOTLIGHT: Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold
Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold
“A nostalgic treat” (Tampa Bay Tribune)
It's "Forensic Files goes to Bethlehem" in this holiday mystery extravaganza as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued hist1orians throughout the ages - whatever happened to the Magi's gold? ("We know that Mary used the frankincense and myrrh as a sort of potpourri - they were in a barn after all.") Retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can, this hilarious holiday production is bound to become a yearly classic. Employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a local choir as well as a gaggle of audience members, Sister creates a living nativity unlike any you've ever seen. With gifts galore and bundles of laughs,Sister's Christmas Catechism is sure to become the newest addition to your holiday traditions.
TO BUY TICKETS & MORE INFO CALL 877-FUNNY-NUN
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for fundraisers and professional engagements. Contact Entertainment Events to Book your Sister today!
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
SHOW SPOTLIGHT: 'Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3
'Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3
After teaching countless students about the saints, venial sins, limbo and more, Sister is now offering up hilarious lessons on the Sacraments of Marriage and the Last Rites, including her own wacky version of the Newlywed Game. Classroom participation is a must, so bring along your sweetie and your sense of humor for a session with the country’s feistiest couples counselor! 'Til Death Do Us Part is the latest class to be unveiled in this sinfully funny series.
TO BUY TICKETS & MORE INFO CALL 877-FUNNY-NUN
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for fundraisers and professional engagements. Contact Entertainment Events today to Book your Sister!
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
SHOW SPOTLIGHT: Late Nite Catechism
Late Nite Catechism
"Uproarious interactive theater"
(NY Times)
(NY Times)
Late Nite Catechism is an uproariously funny play that takes the audience back to their youth. The irrepressible Sister teaches class to a roomful of "students." Throughout the course of the class the benevolent instructor rewards the students for correct answers with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and other nifty prizes. Naughty students may well find themselves on stage sitting in a corner reflecting their actions. However, even the most reluctant students will be clamoring to get into this Sister's class.
TO BUY TICKETS & FOR MORE INFO CALL 877-FUNNY-NUN
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for fundraisers and professional engagements. Contact Entertainment Events to Book yourSister today!
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
Late Nite Catechism is on Sale this Summer!
For over 14 years, Sister has been making audiences "laugh-out-loud" (Backstage). All across the U.S. the critics agree that Late Nite Catechism is “Delightful” (San Francisco Chronicle) and “Hilarious!” (NY Times, LA Times, Associated Press, USA Today, Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, Fox-TV News, Time Out NY, Boston Globe, Boston Herald, San Francisco Chronicle, NY Daily News, Irish Echo).
This Summer we're offering $500 OFF* the booking fee when you present Late Nite Catechism as a fundraiser! Perform the show before the last day of Summer (9/23/10) to get this extraordinary deal.
* - Discount only applies to Off-Site (Fundraisers) for Late Nite Catechism, Sister Strikes Again!: Late Nite Catechism 2, 'Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3 or Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold performed before September 23, 2010. May no be combined with any other discounts. Offer only available through Entertainment Events, Inc.
CONTACT ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS TO BOOK SISTER TODAY!
CALL (877) 386-6968 ext 20
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
"A Lesson From the Sister"
REVIEW: 'Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3
Edge - 2/23/10 - Kay Bourne
"Dining at Club Café has always been flavorful and reasonably priced as well. Both the Bistro menu served through the late night and the dinner menu from 5:30 to 10 pm, 11 pm on weekends are planned by head chef Luis Cadavid. There’s also the elaborate Sunday Brunch Buffet (at a cost saving $9.95) beginning at 11 am.There are improved sight lines in the room (known as Moonshine Dance Club) at the rear of the club just in time for Maripat Donovan to bring her latest (the third) installment of her Late Nite Catechism, this one entitled Late Nite Catechism 3: ’Til Death Do Us Part.
Many will likely remember Ms. Donovan from her long-running stint in Bay Village a few years back with the initial show in the series. In her latest, which runs through March 28, wayward Catholics and every else can benefit from Sister’s lessons on the Sacrament of Marriage and The Last Rites, including her wacky version of The Newlywed Game.
She will be followed by by local drag favorites Fresh Fruit who bring their newest revue Fresh Fruit de Mer to the club from April 1 - 28. Expect more irreverent song parodies and outrageous videos from this talented troupe.
Once the show is done (and the folding chairs have been stored), stay for the dancing (and on Wednesday nights, Karaoke). There’s so much more room with the bar moved some eight feet back (we’re glad they didn’t over-do and take it away!). A new addition to the backroom is Revolution Thursdays, created and produced by Ryan Grow. On Fridays join DJ AGA at the EDGE dance party which features CD, DVD, movie passes and other giveaways (not to forget getting your photo in the cavalcade published in EDGE).
One notable change to Moonshine Dance Club is the new DJ booth that fills the back wall of the room (formerly a wall of mirrors). With it comes state-of-the-art technology in the booth, a new sound system and lighting system (changes still in progress). There are technology changes in the front of the club as well: a second state-of-the-art DJ booth (formerly where the coat check resided) a new sound system and a number of new video screens have been put in place to enhance the club experience."
Many will likely remember Ms. Donovan from her long-running stint in Bay Village a few years back with the initial show in the series. In her latest, which runs through March 28, wayward Catholics and every else can benefit from Sister’s lessons on the Sacrament of Marriage and The Last Rites, including her wacky version of The Newlywed Game.
She will be followed by by local drag favorites Fresh Fruit who bring their newest revue Fresh Fruit de Mer to the club from April 1 - 28. Expect more irreverent song parodies and outrageous videos from this talented troupe.
Once the show is done (and the folding chairs have been stored), stay for the dancing (and on Wednesday nights, Karaoke). There’s so much more room with the bar moved some eight feet back (we’re glad they didn’t over-do and take it away!). A new addition to the backroom is Revolution Thursdays, created and produced by Ryan Grow. On Fridays join DJ AGA at the EDGE dance party which features CD, DVD, movie passes and other giveaways (not to forget getting your photo in the cavalcade published in EDGE).
One notable change to Moonshine Dance Club is the new DJ booth that fills the back wall of the room (formerly a wall of mirrors). With it comes state-of-the-art technology in the booth, a new sound system and lighting system (changes still in progress). There are technology changes in the front of the club as well: a second state-of-the-art DJ booth (formerly where the coat check resided) a new sound system and a number of new video screens have been put in place to enhance the club experience."
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for Fundraisers & Professional Engagements!
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
PRAISE for Late Nite Catechism
Here is some praise for LATE NITE CATECHISM: THE SERIES...
"This was one of the most intimate, hilarious, educational experiences I've ever had. I didn't realize there was more than one version. I'm going to have to go see them all!" (Linda)
"My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the Late Nite Catechismclass this past Friday night at St. Katherine's in Egg Harbor, NJ. Can't wait until it comes to our area again. We'll be sure to be in class again. It was hysterical!!! I mean, 'Sister, it was hysterical!'" (Janet)
"We thoroughly enjoyed the Late Nite Catechism class in Peoria, IL last night! Very impressed with Sister's acting skills and ability to think fast on her feet!" (Anne)
"Maripat Donovan found out what she could do and does she ever do it well! Her acts bring back so many memories of my childhood and youth. This is woman is so funny and can she ever think on her feet!!! Be sure to check out her videos." (Gail)
"I went to one of the shows on Late Nite Catechism last year and it was hysterical! If you ever get a chance to go...GO! We need to laugh at ourselves sometimes... " (Patty)
"Sister are you tweeting now too? Is social networking a sin?" (Brian)
"You probably noticed I was just praying for pagan babies and doing all my chores. Oh, and I clapped all the erasers real good!" (Jack)
"We weren't talking back there in the third row, Sister, we were praying! Honest!" (Anne)
"This is too funny! So many memories. Check it out!" (Dorothy)
"I caught the show in Latrobe, Pa. 'LOVED IT!'" (Christine)
"I saw this at the Golden Apple Dinner Theater in Sarasota, it was hilarious! I laughed for days just thinking about it!" (Bonnie)
"Really enjoyed the show last night - Great job!!" (Barbara)
"She is GREAT!!" (Lisa)
"What a delight!" (Lori)
We Asked: When was the first time you saw SISTER?
Responses:
"Shelby NC at your wonderful performance for the Boys & Girls Club fundraiser. Friends ever since. Thank you!" (Susan)
"Boston, many, many, many years ago.... I think I need a refresher" (Patrick)
"I saw you the first day of first grade, didn't I? Not gotten to see your show though .. . but I will someday .. and I've watched a lot of your on-line videos." (Annie)
Praise from Presenters of LATE NITE CATECHISM...
"I need to start by sharing with you that my family and I had the best time last night during the performance. It was absolutely wonderful! It was our first time experiencing the show. I quickly learned that arriving when the show is about to begin, is very obvious to the "Sister" as she waited at the door to greet all her students! My tardiness opened up an avenue for us to engage in some great fun during the rest of the evening! I should mention my gum chewing along with my calf-high leather boots and mini-skirt also added to the fun! Oh, I almost forgot to mention my eagerness to find-out the correct answer by googling it on my cell-phone...not such a good choice either. At this point I believe that my mother, God bless her, was laughing to the point of tears. As you may have guessed, I had a few check marks on the blackboard and may be going to capital H...E... double hockey-sticks, if I don't go straight to confession!
Mary Zentmyer's performance was so realistic and spirited! Many Thanks for all the laughs and God Bless You."
(Lisa Marie from Torrington, CT)
Mary Zentmyer's performance was so realistic and spirited! Many Thanks for all the laughs and God Bless You."
(Lisa Marie from Torrington, CT)
“The matinee show raised $495 for the IBVM sister's retirement. The evening show $1202 = so $1700!!!!!! WOW! We had 382 total tickets. Raised $165 total from the bake sale. …Today was a totally fun day because everyone talked to me about how great Late Nite Catechism was, etc., etc.!!”
(Beverly from Prescott, AZ)
(Beverly from Prescott, AZ)
“What a night! Thank you, Sister! Thank you Mary and Brian, what a terrific performance! It was so much fun having ‘Sister’ right in church with all the people we know and love! It could not have been a better night! Funny that the staff seemed to be the ‘problem children!’ Rave reviews from all... we had aching cheeks from laughing so much!
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”
(Maureen from Spring, TX)
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”
(Maureen from Spring, TX)
"Kim did a great job! Everyone was laughing the whole time. She was a delight. I would recommend Kim Richards."
(Mary from Hastings, MN)
(Mary from Hastings, MN)
Late Nite Catechism: The Series is available for Fundraisers & Professional Engagements!
Thanks for Blogging! > EEI Staff
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