By JAMES D. WATTS JR. World Scene Writer on Feb 17, 2012, at 2:24 AM Updated on 2/17/12 at 5:32 AM

Comedy has a way of arising out of tragedy.

“Sometimes the best way to deal with a serious subject is through humor,” Amy Page said. “That’s very much the case with ‘The Frogs.’ ”

The Greek playwright Aristophanes wrote “The Frogs” not long after the deaths of two of the leading figures of ancient world – the writer Euripedes, whose tragic plays include “Medea,” and the philosopher Socrates. [Read more…]

By JAMES D. WATTS JR. World Scene Writer on Dec 10, 2011, at 2:24 AM Updated on 12/10/11 at 4:51 AM

“One of the things about this time of year is that it’s seen as a time of renewal, of regeneration,” says Sara Wilemon, who plays in “Sex.” “And that’s one of the main themes of this show. The main character is someone who is determined to follow the path that is best for her, who isn’t going to make herself over according to the demands of society.” MIKE SIMONS/ Tulsa World file

Putting on a play written by Mae West and titled “Sex” might not strike the average person as typical theatrical fare for the holiday season.

But actress Sara Wilemon would politely beg to differ.

“One of the things about this time of year is that it’s seen as a time of renewal, of regeneration,” she said. “And that’s one of the main themes of this show. The main character is someone who is determined to follow the path that is best for her, who isn’t going to make herself over according to the demands of society. [Read more…]

By JAMES D. WATTS JR. World Scene Writer on Sep 8, 2011, at 2:07 AM Updated on 9/08/11 at 2:43 AM

Annie Ellicott (right) stars in Nightingale Theater’s “The Blue Whale of Catoosa.” JAMES GIBBARD / Tulsa World

For many area residents, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is one of those things seen only in passing – from the windows of cars zipping east and west along Route 66.

“If you’ve lived here for any length of time,” said John Cruncleton, “you’re familiar with the place. And over time, you’ve seen a kind of evolution of the Blue Whale – the way it deteriorated for a while, and then its rebirth into what it looks like today. [Read more…]