Contemplating The Bean

Greetings Fans!
Carol's TV appearances continue as she could be seen once again in The Beast. In the beginning of episode 4, Carol can be seen contemplating The Bean (or Cloud Gate, if you prefer), as the woman with a backpack runs through while talking on a cell phone.

Carol (left) contemplates her reflection in The Bean.

A few seconds later, she can be glimpsed again (although only barely) as Travis rides through on his stolen bicycle. Interestingly, you can also see her reflection overhead, fun house-style.

As both the backpacked woman and Travis leave the scene, you can glimpse Carol's disembodied head at the bottom of the screen, and distorted reflection above. Next week in episode 6 of The Beast, and both Carol and I (and my car) may make appearances. Stay tuned!

If you haven't seen Key For Two yet, you only have four more chances! Why not bring your sweetheart to see a hilarious show about infidelity to make up for the lame Valentine's Day gift you got them? Don't miss out!

Carol's Return to TV

Greetings Fans,
As I reported back in August, Carol had worked background on several episodes of The Beast, the new A&E drama starring Patrick Swayze. The Beast airs on Thursday nights at 9pm on A&E, and last Thursday was episode three which marks Carol's return to television!

Not since season one of Prison Break have we seen Carol's face on TV (and truth be told, we can't really see her face this time either). In this episode, we spotted Carol in two different scenes. The first is at 11:31 into the episode, Carol and a friend are walking past the door just as Patrick enters a Romanian bar. Carol is backlit and her face is in shadow, but we are certain that is her on the left. She walks out of frame just as Patrick enters the bar.

Carol (left) and a friend in the Romanian bar

Later in the episode, at 36:34, we see Carol (and the same friend-- they really get around) walking down a sidewalk. We see her twice in this scene, through the windshield in the shots with Nadia looking out the window. Carol is wearing her fabulous purple raincoat, which was unusual for background wardrobe.

Carol in purple raincoat, stumbling home from the Romanian bar

We can look for Carol again in next week's episode. She is reportedly in a scene near "The Bean", and possibly walking outside the Cultural Center. Later this season, in episode seven, you can look for both Carol and I, and my car. Stay tuned for details...

Key For Two - Opening Night!

Greetings Fans!
Tonight is opening night for Key For Two at the Riverfront Playhouse. I had the pleasure of seeing the show last night at their final rehearsal, and I thought it was excellent! As with all British farces, the show is an escalating stream of fast-paced and hilariously embarrassing situations. In a change from her previous two roles, Carol plays the straight part (get it?) in this show.

If you suffer from schadenfreude and are in need of a few laughs (and in this economy, who isn't!), then this is the show for you! If you are a philanderer and are in need of new material, this is the show for you! If you enjoy seeing women in various stages of undress, this is definitely the show for you! If you're a depressed social misfit who hates comedy, an uptight repressed vegan with an aversion to fur, or a prude... then perhaps you should just stay home.

Tickets for KEY FOR TWO are $15 for adults, and $12 for students and seniors. Some of the subject matter may be considered inappropriate for children, so The Riverfront would like to discourage anyone under the age of 12. Reservations are available by calling the playhouse at (630) 897-9496.

See you at the show!

Key ... Not Tea

... Press Release, as posted on the Riverfront Playhouse web site ...

The Riverfront Playhouse at 11-13 South Water Street Mall in downtown Aurora will present KEY FOR TWO, a British Bedroom Farce by John Chapman and Dave Freeman beginning Friday, January 23, 2009 at 8pm and continuing Friday and Saturday nights through February 28, 2009.

Under the direction of Jack and Jackson Schultz, KEY FOR TWO tells the story of Harriet, a proper English lady who just happens to make her living by entertaining two married men, Gordon and Alec, who know nothing about each other. She is aided in her deceit by split-second timing and her imaginary overly-religious yet alcoholic mother who wouldn't approve of such arrangements. When Harriet’s best friend, Anne, shows up to escape her husband, Richard, things take a turn for the hilarious when Alec and Gordon threaten to occupy the same bedroom at the same time as Richard arrives to reclaim Anne, and the wives of Alec and Gordon trace their husband's whereabouts to Harriet's house. Suddenly the house turns into a hospital that treats everything from broken bones to dislocated backs to delusional philanderers to the highly dreaded disease known as “polygamous palsy.”

KEY FOR TWO features the talents of Kristen Duerdoth as Harriet, Connie Pfister as Anne, Steve Fiorito as Gordon, Chris Dillman as Alec, Bob Becker as Richard, Carol Townsend as Magda, and Vicki White as Mildred.

The Riverfront Playhouse has earned a reputation for their presentation of British Sex Farces. With mistaken identities, split second entrances and exits, broad slapstick humor, and the British penchant for retaining the utmost dignity in the most undignified circumstances, KEY FOR TWO promises to keep the playhouse’s reputation spotless.

This play also marks the return of Jack Schultz to the director’s chair. Along with his son, Jackson, he has assembled a cast that is razor sharp in portraying the timing and absurdity required of British Farces. Says Jackson, “This play has been such a pleasure to rehearse, I almost hate to see it open since it means the nightly fun is going to come to an end. We’ve put together what seems to be a perfect mixture of familiar faces with new talent, and the result has been sheer joy to see develop.”

Tickets for KEY FOR TWO are $15 for adults, and $12 for students and seniors. Some of the subject matter may be considered inappropriate for children, so The Riverfront would like to discourage anyone under the age of 12. Reservations are available by calling the playhouse at (630) 897-9496.

New Year, and a New Play

Happy New Year, fans!
I hope everyone had an enjoyable and relaxing holiday, and here's to a prosperous 2009! To start out the new year, Carol will be starting with a new play, Key for Two, by John Chapman and Dave Freeman.

In this wickedly amusing play, by two master craftsmen of comedy, Harriet, a divorcee living in an elegant flat in Brighton, solves her financial problems by entertaining two married gentlemen callers on different days of the week. The scheme faces collapse when her friend Anne, whose marriage is tottering, arrives at the flat hotly pursued by her husband. One of Harriet’s lovers is confined to her bed with a sprained ankle and the second lover turns up unexpectedly, closely followed by two irate wives in search of their itinerant husbands. The indescribable confusion that ensues builds to a rich complexity of mistaken identity, splendidly farcical situations and a climax of comic wizardry.(1)

Key for Two will be opening on January 23rd at the Riverfront Playhouse in Aurora. We do not have all the particulars as of yet, except that Carol will be playing the part of Magda, one of the irate wives, and the show will be Fridays and Saturdays, January 23rd - February 28th. Stay tuned for further details...

Still Photos Stills

Greetings Fans,
As you may recall, back in June, Carol portrayed a 78-year old grandmother in the Point of Contention production of Still Photos. I have posted some photos from the show in previous posts, but the official production photos are now available here. Go check 'em out!

Brett Lee, Elisé Lammers, Jason Ober, Carol Townsend and Danielle O'Farrell / Photo Credit: Brent Walker

All photos are courtesy of Point of Contention - Still Photos

A Dark Knight Moment

... and one more, while we're at it. As you may have seen mentioned elsewhere on this site, both Carol and I also worked on The Dark Knight. In a cruel irony, I was clearly visible in one scene for almost 30 seconds (and a few seconds in two other scenes), but we weren't able to spot Carol when we saw the movie in the theater.

That said, having been able to take a... closer look... I can now confirm that Carol did, in fact, make the final cut! In the scene in Bruce Wayne's penthouse (as not described in this blog post) when the Joker crashes the party and is terrorizing the guests, as he is walking over to confront Rachel, you can catch a glimpse (albeit blurry) of Carol sitting on a couch in the background.

Holy partycrashers! Carol cowers on the couch as the Joker menaces.

See her? Just to the right of the Joker's left shoulder. I've highlighted her in the picture above (click for a larger version). That's Carol, I swear!

Fred Claus: Revisited

A belated Happy Thanksgiving to all the fans out there! Please excuse the extreme gap between posts. Carol has been busy working various product promotions, preparing a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner, and various auditions.

In the meantime, let's revisit some news from almost two years ago. Back in January 2007, I wrote about our adventures working in the cold Chicago streets as extras on Fred Claus. We saw the movie in the theater last Christmas, but we couldn't identify whether we made the cut or not. Now that the movie is out on DVD and Pay-per-view, we were able to take a closer look. Amazingly, out of the 100s of extras that were working, Carol and I made it to the screen!

At 14:45 into the movie for a full 5 seconds, you can catch us walking behind Fred (Vince Vaughn) as he is ringing a bell and asking for donations. Just as he says "Hey there, gimme a hug ... you gorgeous leopard, meow! Who's the queen of the jungle? You are!", Carol and I are walking right behind him.

If you blink, you're liable to miss it. So here, I've captured the moment for you.

Humbug! Busy shoppers, Mark and Carol, ignore the guy in the Santa hat.

At the extreme screen right, you'll see Carol and me just about to walk off the screen. Another 5 seconds of fame. It's cumulative, right?

Bits of Dodgeville

Greetings fans!
As you may have read on this very site, Carol appeared as Emma Sweet in the pilot episode of Dodgeville.
Last month, we had the pleasure of seeing the final cut at the premiere cast party! Now, for your viewing pleasure, here are a few clips of Carol's appearances...

Table and Chairs II: Duets

Hello Fans!
In these hard economic times, budgets are tight and many are cutting back on non-essential expenses. But who can put a price on quality entertainment?! And at only $10 for 10 plays, Table & Chairs II: Duets is a veritable bargain. That's only $1 per play!

For two nights only, you can see Carol and many other talented actors in 10 different short plays.

Table & Chairs II: Duets, presented by n.u.f.a.n. ensemble.

Monday, October 20
Tuesday, October 21
8:00pm

Bailiwick Repertory Theater
1229 W. Belmont. Chicago

You can get details and purchase tickets online here.

Murder at the Arcada Casino -- revisited

Hello Fans!

Back in March, Carol worked with MurdersRUs, and appeared in an improvisational murder/mystery called Murder at the Arcada Casino.  In addition to the actual stage performance, the entire concept is being considered for a reality TV show.  A film crew was on hand to capture the entire process, from auditions, casting, rehearsal to performance, plus all the backstage antics.  You can view at the promotional trailer right here:

"Murder at the Arcada Casino"

Written, Directed, and Produced by Paul Warshauer, MurdersRUs.

Although Carol had a more prominent role in the staged performance, she managed to avoid the film crew, aside from a few brief appearances.  In case you blinked and missed her appearance (at 5:49 into the video), here's what you missed:

Eiahhh!  Get that camera out of the dressing room!

A Near Tragedy

Greetings Fans,

While relaxing on a recent vacation (long weekend) in Hot Springs, AR [by the way... while Hot Springs is beautiful... I do not recommend driving from Chicago], the entertainment world nearly lost one of its most promising rising stars when Carol narrowly avoided being crushed by a runaway horse!  Fortunately, I was ready with the camera and was able to capture the terrifying spectacle.  I warn you, the following narrative and pictures may be disturbing to young children, or those easily terrified by renegade farm animals.

As we guided these wild thousand pound monsters through the rough wooded terrain, we came upon a raging torrent of runoff from the recent rain storms.  One by one, we coaxed our beasts through the turbulent waters, fighting to keep them under control.  Finally, following the rest of the group, Carol's horse entered the water.  Suddenly, her horse began thrashing its feet, churning the muddy water until it boiled, much like a Venti Latte you might order from Starbucks.  Carol tried in vain to move her horse safely through the raging water, but it was beyond convincing.  Then, without warning, the horse dropped to its knees in the swirling flood.  Carol screamed!  In horrifying slow motion, the beast started to roll over, as if to crush the rider on its back. 

Thinking quickly, Carol pulled her right foot from the stirrup, just as the horse's weight would have surely crushed it.  Yanking back on the reins to regain her balance, Carol managed to stay atop the capsized equine.  Having realized it would not taste human blood this day, the horse righted itself and, with Carol still in the saddle, it stood up and sloshed the rest of the way through the raging torrent.  

Finally out of danger, Carol let out a triumphant cry!  The animal had nearly won.  Only by her quick thinking and grim determination was Carol able to remain in control, and break the will of this demon steed.  The remainder of the ride was uneventful.  It had been beaten, and it knew it.

Sertafied Professional

Your friendly sertafied mattress professional

In celebration of Labor Day, Carol labored all weekend promoting Serta mattresses at Sam's Club.  

Another sertafied customer

Carol will be presenting a monologue for the Wheaton Drama general meeting on September 23rd.  Additionally, making his first stage appearance will be Carol's cat, Al!  Carol and Al will be appearing in separate sketches.  It won't be long before Al is working on his own, demanding premium food, and entering catnip rehab.  We can only hope that the success doesn't go to his head.

Miss Ohio

Greetings fans,
It has been a busy week for news! Carol's latest endeavor is that she has landed a part in an upcoming independent film titled Miss Ohio. It is written and directed by Gregory Fitzsimmons, and produced by independent film production company Candy Cane Sammy, LLC. No details yet as to the role, but stay tuned for further details.

Dodgeville Revisited

Greetings Fans!
Back in May, I mentioned Carol's work on a sitcom pilot for Dodgeville. Production is now complete on the pilot, and you can check out the trailer:


Dodgeville - TV Sitcom Pilot from Rory Bolen on Vimeo.
Watch for Carol (Emma Sweet) at the 1:05 mark, with the line: "Hey... you guys seen my schnapps?"

You can also check out the official Dodgeville web site: www.dodgeville.tv

Still Photos Photos

(left to right: Brett Lee, Elisé Lammers, Jason Ober, Carol Townsend, Danielle O'Farrell)

Production photos from Still Photos have been posted on the Point of Contention web site. If you missed the show, you can catch a glimpse of the magic here.

(Carol Townsend and Megan Brown)

Carol Works The Beast!

(get your mind out of the gutter...)

Hi fans!
Tomorrow, Carol (and her Blazer) will be working on The Beast. The Beast is a new A&E drama starring Patrick Swayze which is scheduled to start airing in early 2009. Production started late last year, but was put on hold when Patrick was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Production has now resumed and The Beast is being filmed in Chicago, so perhaps this could be Carol's next "Prison Break" break? (For new fans, Carol worked as an extra on season 1 of Prison Break, and appeared in six episodes, three-times in one episode. You can check them out here.)

Extras casting is being handled by ExtraOrdinary Casting, so if you are interested in working The Beast, check them out.

I gotta go pinch out a grumpy

Greetings Fans!
You may recall from last year, Carol worked on a scene in Witless Protection. We never got a chance to see it in the theater (and having seen parts of it now, I guess that might not be a bad thing). However, in one memorable scene, you can catch a glimpse of Carol over Larry the Cable Guy's left shoulder. Perhaps not the most prestigious scene, but a memorable line, nonetheless!

"I tell you what..."

"... that beef jerky and marmalade ain't sittin' too good.
You got a crapper? I gotta go pinch out a grumpy."

Carol looks radiant as she descends the stairs, smiling as she greets some unseen acquaintance... oblivious to the gastrointestinal distress occurring just across the room!

Three Plays, One Day

Greetings Fans!
Tomorrow (July 25), Carol will be setting a new personal record for performances, with THREE separate plays. At 10:00am she will be performing in The Mystery of the Missing Moon (for grades K-2), followed at 1:30 pm by The Legend of Pandora's Box (for grades 3-6), both at the Carol Stream Public Library. Then at 8:00pm, she will be back on stage with Still Photos at Trapdoor Theatre. The kids might be in for a surprise if Carol lapses into Still Photos during one of the shows!

You only have three chances left to see Still Photos. Remember, if you mention the POC Podcast, you get $5 the ticket price. What a bargain! Get your tickets here, or at the door.

Dirty Carol and Officer Hanley

A few more production proofs from Overproof have been posted to Flickr. Check out Carol's gritty portrayal!

Put down the weapon!

While we're on the subject of police, you can check out MY performance in The Dark Knight! Both Carol and I worked as extras on The Dark Knight (a.k.a. Rory's First Kiss) last summer. You can read about that here, here, and here.

Carol worked on the scene where the Joker crashes Harvey Dent's fundraiser, but unfortunately we were unable to spot whether she was visible, with all the action and quick cuts. We'll have to get the DVD and check it out in slow-mo.

Gotham City's Finest... no donuts!

I was more fortunate, and am plainly visible in the scene just after the SWAT truck chase when Harvey Dent is addressing a crowd of reporters [edit: I am told it is at 1 hour 23 minutes]. I am the cop holding back the crowd, and I am just to the left of Harvey on the screen. It seems like I had a good 3-5 seconds of face time. There were a couple other scenes that I worked as well, but I couldn't tell if I was visible. Unlike Carol, I never got to draw my weapon (except for this covert photo).

Hear Carol on the POC Podcast

The third and final episode of the Point of Contention podcast covering Still Photos, has been posted to the POC web site here, or if you are an iTunes user, get it here. This episode includes both Charlies: our own Carol and Danielle O'Farrell, discussing the production.

If you still haven't seen the show, you have only FOUR opportunities left! Get half-off the ticket price for the July 24th show by getting your tickets here, or $5 off on the 25th, 26th or 27th if you mention the podcast. What could you possibly have to do this weekend that would be a better time?! Maybe I'll see you there!

See Still Photos and chat with Vanda after the show

A message from Carol:

Thanks to all who have come to see the show! There are two weekends left to see Still Photos! And this Thursday, July 17th, the playwright will be there for a talk-back after the show!

Regarding the air conditioning, it works.....sometimes. So wear a tank top in case it's NOT working and bring a sweater in case it IS.

AND, I have discovered I can offer a great incentive to my suburbanite friends: if we can meet somewhere fairly convenient, I'll give you a ride! Heck, I'm going there anyway! I have to be there an hour before the show, but we can go even a bit earlier and enjoy dinner at Jane's, the restaurant next to the theatre. I'll eat and run, and you can relax over your dinner and a beverage -- or two -- before the show.

Hope you can come!

Carol

Still Photos

Happy Independence Day!!
We broke tradition this year and did not get to see the fireworks in Lombard, as we normally do. Instead, we spent the day at the theater, seeing Kooza at the United Center, followed by Carol in Still Photos at the Trapdoor Theatre.

Charlie (Danielle O’Farrell) and Aubra (Elisé Lammers) share a moment

We see the relationship between Aubra and Charlie blossom through the memories of Grandma (Charlie, in 2004), played by our own Carol Townsend. Grandma painfully reflects on the decisions of her past, while she and her estranged granddaughter Emily (played by Megan Brown) watch the 1944-drama unfold before them. Grandma tries to convince her 1944 counterpart to make different decisions, changing her own past... but what would this mean for Emily? Carol shows us the painful struggle between regret of decisions past, and grateful acceptance of a life lived.

Danielle O'Farrell convincingly conveyed Charlie's exuberance and innocence; and her high-energy portrayal was a stark contrast to Elisé Lammer's dark and passionate expression of Aubra, the refined but bitter polio-stricken opera singer, who helps Charlie discover her true self. I can't get away without mentioning the convincing portrayals of the men: Phillip (played by Brett Lee), Aubra's fiancé and care-taker; and Joe (played by Jason Ober), Charlie's enthusiastic and naive boyhood sweetheart.

There's something for everyone: love, war, drinking, girls kissing, parades, 1940s music, dancing, and even a temporal paradox!

Still Photos is undeniably the best lesbian love story I have ever seen! There, I said it. You need to go see this show!

This ain't your British farce

A message from Carol:

Still Photos, which opens next Friday, June 27, at Trap Door Theatre, is very different from plays I've done previously.

It's a love story (which usually appeals to the ladies) about two women (which might appeal to the men. Yes, guys, there will be two young women making out on stage.) It's got romance, history, brave men fighting WWII, and a grandma. That would be me: the grandma.

Hope you can come out and see the show, and see me sitting in my rocker speaking with an irritating New York accent!

The show runs June 27 - July 27.
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.
Sundays at 2:00 p.m.

Trap Door Theatre in Chicago
1655 W. Cortland (near Ashland and Armitage)

Tickets are $15, but mention the podcast (http://www.pointofcontention.org/) and you'll get a discount!

Cheers!

Carol

Carol Stops Traffic in Romeoville

Greetings Fans!
If you were in the southern suburbs today, you may have encountered unusually heavy traffic around Weber Rd. and I-55. Carol was appearing at the 7-Eleven at Weber and Normantown Roads, and motorists lined-up for miles to see her. Well, they may have also been interested in the FREE GAS that Hershey was giving away from 7am - 9am-- but I am sure that was probably secondary. You can read about the Hershey promotion here.

The event was covered by the Daily Herald here, and on the WBBM Newsradio site here. (I especially like some of the comments at the bottom of the articles. I guess not everyone was excited about seeing Carol... or the free gas.) There were also brief mentions on NBC 5 (you can view a slide show here) and CBS 2 evening news in Chicago... although oddly enough, they seemed to focus on the free gas rather than on Carol's appearance.

Overproof

Jeff Garretson threatens to commit suicide in Overproof.

While Carol's performance in Overproof is finished, the production has just begun. Most of the shooting was done on green screen, as the movie takes place in the middle of a busy street. Since it was not possible to film in an actual street, the background will be digitally added. Above is a production photo, and below is an early composite with the background.

Carol tries to talk Jeff out of killing himself in the middle of the street.

Point of Contention Podcast

Hey fans!
Point of Contention produces a monthly podcast, and the next three episodes will be focusing on their upcoming production: Still Photos. This month's podcast features an explanation of what Still Photos is about, how it came to POC, and a brief intro to the production crew and cast. (The hosts get a kick out of our little Fan Site-- thanks for the mention!) Check out the podcast on the POC blog site, or you can subscribe on iTunes.

Murder, Dodgeville, and Overproof

Welcome back fans!
Forgive me for the long drought of new information. Contrary to my lack of updates, Carol has remained busy during the past month (although, sadly, she is not part of the rumored MacGyver movie). Amongst the many product promotions (Oil of Olay, Serta Mattresses, and Axe Body Spray), Carol has also continued to expand her acting resume.

Back on April 28, Carol once again joined Murders R Us for an afternoon of improv and murder. Murder at the Chop House was a private improvised murder mystery, at the Chop House in Schaumburg. Carol was excited to play Wilma Flipflappah, mayor of Hoffman Estates.

Carol also spent several days shooting a television pilot for a sitcom called Dodgeville. The show was originally shot in 2007, and submitted to the Chicago Comedy TV Pilot Competition. You can read about it here. Dodgeville, written and directed by Rory Bolen, is about four guys who inherit a warehouse in Dodgeville, WI, and decide to turn it into their weekend man-cave/clubhouse/getaway. Carol plays Emma Sweet, a brash middle-aged (ahem) "Cheesehead" mother of four, who hangs out with the guys to escape the madness of her life for a few hours.

And finally, Carol was cast and is in the midst of shooting a short film, called Overproof. Carol plays a detective who tries to convince a suicidal man with a bomb (Jeff Garretson) not to kill himself. No, that's not grass in the photo-- this was Carol's first work with chroma key (green screen).

You can view other Overproof production photos here.



Don't forget, Still Photos opens on June 27 at the Trapdoor Theatre!

Extra! Extra!

Greetings Fans!
You may have guessed, the previous post was a bit of fun-- although Carol would welcome the opportunity to work with RDA on anything, should the opportunity present itself! Happy April Fools Day!

All kidding aside, Carol will be working as an extra-- er, background actor-- tomorrow on Unborn, which is shooting in the Chicago area. Unborn is a horror movie, written and directed by David Goyer. This will be Carol's first venture into the horror genre. She will once again be working with Gary Oldman, whom we both worked with on The Dark Knight last summer. Carol may also be working with newcomer, and brother-in-law, Charles Miceli, who has recently taken up acting after having entered semi-early-retirement.

Huge News!

Hello Fans,
It is Tuesday, April 1, and OMG! Carol has landed a leading part in a re-make of the 1980s classic television series, MacGyver! Richard Dean Anderson will be reprising his role as the uncommon action hero, and reportedly, Amanda Tapping (from Stargate: SG-1 and now Stargate: Atlantis) will be joining the cast as a recurring love interest for MacGyver.

Carol has been cast as a former employee of the Phoenix Foundation who has turned rogue, and is now working with a foreign agency to sell military secrets to terrorist organizations. In the opening episode, Carol reportedly kidnaps Amanda Tapping's character to blackmail MacGyver into stealing classified documents on a new bionic enhancement program from Area 51. MacGyver must devise a way to break into the top-secret facility, rescue Amanda's character, and avoid handing the secret materials over to the terrorists.

The show will be shooting in Vancouver starting in June, so Carol has started looking for an apartment. The series will reportedly be showing on ABC starting in January 2009.

I can't wait! Congratulations, babe!
... and to everyone else... Happy April 1st!!

UPDATE 4/2: Wow! I never expected I would get such a turnout from the story above. Just to be clear, this was pure fabrication! To my knowledge, there is no such re-make of MacGyver in the works (although, I would love to see one!), nor is Carol moving to Vancouver, nor are RDA or Amanda Tapping in any way involved in any such project (to the best of my knowledge, anyway). Sorry for the false hope, but thanks for stopping by!
-- mkh

The Vision

Hello Fans,
Our starlet has been very busy! In between auditions, and improv performances, and marketing promotions, she has also found time to appear in a local independent film: The Vision.

"When an over ambitious reporter stirs up an old controversy surrounding a series of unsolved murders, a clairvoyant teenage girl and her friends enlist the help of a college professor with a plan to expose the identity of the killer, when it is believed that the girl's reoccurring vision may be the murder of the professor."

Carol has a small part, playing newspaper editor, Katherine Morrissey. The film is a project of Sole Productions, and local filmmaker Robert Alaniz, and has been shooting in the southern suburbs. The film will premiere in theaters in October 2008, with a DVD release to follow. You can watch the trailer on YouTube.

Save The Dates!

Carol has been cast in a new show with Point of Contention Theatre Company! The show is Still Photos, by Vanda, and will run June 27 - July 27 at the Trap Door Theatre, in Chicago.

Carol will be playing the part of Grandma-- we can only assume that the magic of make-up will make this believable! The play begins with Grandma, cleaning out her attic and reflecting on the past.

"Still Photos is a 1940’s love story, that just happens to be about two women. Aubra is a housebound, Fifth Avenue opera diva, whose career collapsed when she was crippled in the polio epidemic of 1931. Charlie is a modern day “Rosie the Riveter,” whose job as a projectionist at the Flatbush Cinema fuels her dreams of becoming a movie producer. Charlie’s fiancé arranges for Charlie to take care of Aubra, while he and Aubra’s fiancé go off to fight in the Second World War. While the men are away the two women fall in love. The war soon ends and they both must decide between their love for each other and their responsibilities to their men. They don’t know that they are being haunted by the future."


Mark your calendars:
June 27 - July 27

Murder at the Arcada Casino

Too late-- you missed it (and so did I)! Carol auditioned for, was cast, and performed in Murder at the Arcada Casino today, at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles. This was a unique production by Murders R Us, in that the audition, casting, rehearsal and performance were all on the same day! You can read about the show here (PDF). As I post this, Carol is probably still on stage.

The Story Line: There is trouble in St. Charles when a developer from Cicero makes a move to convert the wonderful Arcada Theatre into a Blue Collar casino. He also has his sights set on the Baker Hotel across the Fox River as an upscale one! On the other side are Tray Hugger, a rabid environmentalist and Biff Wellington the idealistic architect! Join the fun watching a cast of 13. Will you guess the murder, victim, weapon, motive, or opportunity? Clearly: A Murder Will Occur!

Carol was cast as Madame Baboushka-- a fraud, (but clever) Corporate Psychic with famous clients (Enron, Arthur Anderson, etc.), and a mysterious shifting accent.

3/17 Update: You can read about the show here. The company's official web site is www.murdersrus.com.

See How The Other Half Loves

If you missed seeing Carol in How The Other Half Loves, you can check out the production photos (courtesy of Danna Durkin) on Carol's Flickr page.

And now, a word from our sponsor...

Carol's first commercial for Fave Media, Inc. is now live! (I've embedded the video at the bottom of the page, or you can view it on their site by clicking the link above.)

Fave Media is a Chicago area search engine which delivers "organized, relevant results no matter what product or service you need, without the clutter that accompanies your searches on the major search engines. Fave is populated with over 350,000 Chicago area businesses, so you can search for everything, from restaurants to dentists to boutique shops to real estate agents."

If you're looking for a local (Chicago) business, why not give them a try? Or if you're in the market for a Financial Advisor, give ol' Ken Roman a call-- just be sure to tell them that you were sold by the commercial!

The Review

How The Other Half Loves has been reviewed on the Northern Illinois Community Theatre Resource (nicoth) web site. You can read the full review here.

Comments about our star: "Carol Townsand [sic] is delightful as a wealthy wife whose reckless slumming with her husband’s employee is one sordid secret that may not stay secret much longer."

Only two shows left! If you're in the mood, I will be there for the final show this Sunday.

Pajamarama-dingdong

Pajamarama Sisters

Pajamarama Queen by day... Fiona Foster by night. How The Other Half Loves opened last night to a full house, and Carol's fans turned out in force. Don't miss your chance to see this hilarious show. Only 5 shows remaining!

Come And See The Show!

Opening night for How The Other Half Loves is this Friday! The show is at 8:00pm. I will be there (weather and air traffic permitting), so be sure to say Hi if you come out. Be sure to tell the box office you heard about the show from Carol. You can reserve tickets online here, or get them at the door.

In other news, Carol and her sister will be at the Streamwood Wal-Mart this Saturday, from 10am - 1pm, promoting the Littlest Pet Shop Pajamarama. Bring your kids (or yourself!) in their pajamas, and they will receive free stickers, tattoos, and posters! What better way to spend Saturday morning?

Carol Joins Forces With Bob Greene!

Carol's marketing promotions are in high-gear, as she will be working at an event in Crystal Lake Tuesday and Wednesday, (1/15 and 1/16), with Bob Greene, Oprah's personal trainer. If you're in danger of failing those New Year's Resolutions to lose weight or get in shape, why not take a trip out to Crystal Lake, and let Oprah's fitness guru talk some sense into you?

As mentioned in the Sun Times, Greene's crew will be at the Crystal Lake Jewel from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday and Tuesday to sign up folks, demonstrate recipes and answer questions. The first 150 customers will receive Best Life gift bags valued at more than $75. And of course, you will can also see Carol live and in person, which is worth the price of admission!

Coming Soon: The Drama Queens Club

Greeting Fans,
You may recall mention of Carol's involvement with an upcoming television drama, The Drama Queens Club. The pilot episode is now complete, and they have posted a brand new trailer:

The Drama Queens Club, featuring Carol Townsend as Melissa Marcel, Director of Drama

"A group of girls are pursuing their dream of making it big in the entertainment and fashion industries. They hope to expand their horizons by attending the prestigious all girls' performing arts school, 'Idiom', where their model is: Before diamonds can shine they must be refined.

The Drama Queens Club is a must see entertaining drama that will feature cool fashions, guest appearances, fun behind the scenes footage, music and much more! This colorful 30 minute presentation will specifically deal with issues that affect girls 7-12 years of age, such as: pedophiles on the Internet, bullying and puberty, friendship and cheating."

How to Beat the Winter Blues

So the holidays have passed, the Christmas decorations are put away for another year, and you are feeling those after-Christmas blues. What you need is something to look forward to, something to make you smile and laugh, something to get you out of the house!

Make plans now to come and see:

By Alan Ayckbourn

Directed by Joe Messina

February 8, 9, 10 and
15, 16, 17 2008

A hilarious farce that presents
the intricate lives, liaisons,
passions and growing panic
of three married couples.

Click here for cast list

Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM

Sundays at 2PM

Tickets: $14 - Adult, $8 - Child

Click here for the Box Office

Performances at The Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Street, Downers Grove

Stop counting sheep...

Trouble sleeping? Well, instead of counting sheep, maybe it's time you invested in a new mattress. How about a brand new Serta?

If you are in the market for a new mattress (or maybe you'd just like to try one out), why not visit Carol at the Sam's Club in Addison (Lake St. & Route 53) this weekend (January 12 and 13)?


View Larger Map

You know, you spend 1/3 of your life in bed. You owe it to yourself to sleep on the very best! Why not make it a Serta? (Carol recommends the #5 King).

Hell Cab: Revisited

Hell Cab: The Cast

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Greetings Fans!
What better way to get yourself into the spirit of the season than a night of holiday music and storytelling? I can think of none better, especially when one of the storytellers will be Carol!

WHAT?
'Twas the Night Before Christmas

WHEN?
Saturday, December 8, 7:00pm

WHERE?
Ispirare School of Music
102-104 First St., in Batavia

HOW MUCH?
$10 for Adults (tax deductible!)
Children 5 and under are Free (also tax deductible)

HOW?
Click here to reserve tickets

Don't be a Scrooge! Jump-start your holiday spirit, and support the arts! Proceeds from the show will benefit the Ispirare School of Music and Soapbox Theatre Company. Bring the family! Bring your friends! (Did I mention it was tax deducible?)

Carol Returns to Downers Grove!

Hi fans!
Some of you may recall Carol in the Grove Players production of The Memory of Water earlier this year. I am happy to announce that Carol will be returning to Downers Grove in February 2008, for their production of How The Other Half Loves, by Alan Ayckbourn. Carol has been cast as Fiona Foster, and will be appearing opposite her former love-interest from MOW, Robert Plowman.

Show dates will be February 8, 9, 10 and 15, 16, 17. Mark your calendars!

Carol: Fabulous Tastings of Vodka for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan

Hello! Carol will be in picturesque South Elgin tomorrow (Wednesday, 11/21) to promote Snow Queen Vodka-- a product of Kazakhstan. Very Nice! If you would like to sample this exquisite award-winning vodka and pick up a bottle for Thanksgiving, you can find Carol at the Top Shelf Wine & Spirits, 240 Randall Rd., from 4-7pm. Adults only, please!

After enjoying the vodka, perhaps you will feel like having a nap on a brand new mattress. Carol will be promoting Serta mattresses in the Addison Sam's Club on December 15-16. Just in time for Christmas-- why not save Santa the trouble of trying to squeeze one down the chimney?

Stay tuned for more upcoming opportunities to see our favorite starlet-- on stage, or in the wild!

A message from Carol

Howdy!

Thanks to everyone who came out to DeKalb to see The Crucible! I REALLY appreciate it! Not a whole lot of laughs in that one, unless you did a LOT of drinking before the show, which generally seemed to be the case with the Saturday night crowds.

Hellcab has been running for 2 weekends now, 2 weeks left to go. This one has more laughs in it. Though it does have some very strong language and some adult situations, so leave the kids at home. Also, it's shorter, so I'd love to go out afterwards for a bite or a beverage. Mark and my sister and brother-in-law are coming to the show this Sunday, 11/11, and we're going to Home Run Inn (75th and Lemont) afterwards, so come on out and join us!

Tickets are $14, and mention my name as we're having a contest for who sells the most tickets.

October 26 - November 18
Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m
Sundays at 3 p.m.

More info is available at the Theatre-on-the-Hill website.

Hope to see you at the theatre!!!

Carol

Take a ride in the Hell Cab

Hell Cab is not for those who blush at dirty jokes or wither at the use of strong language. Hell Cab is not for the easily offended or the easily disturbed. If you're a mamma's boy, milktoast, sissyboy, then Hell Cab may not be your cup of tea.

But, if you're the type who doesn't mind a little colorful language and adult situations... the type who can handle their liquor and enjoys a bit of raunch... if you're a mature, well-adjusted good looking red-blooded American and you love your country and the First Amendment, then Hell Cab is for you! Why not go see it this weekend?

If you decide to do your patriotic duty and go see Hell Cab, please be sure to mention Carol when you purchase your tickets!

Fancy a spot of tea?

Greetings, fans!
If you're in the mood for a spot of tea, why not head out to the DeKalb Wal-Mart this Sunday (10/21), where Carol will be handing out samples of various Lipton teas.

Carol will also be working as a homeless person on a pilot for a new TV show, next Tuesday and Wednesday. We are unable to share details at this time due to a non-disclosure agreement, but we will be the first to post further information once we can leak it!

And finally, The Crucible wrapped on Sunday after an amazing two-week run. If you missed it, your life will never be complete. However, Hellcab opens next Friday (10/26), so you still have a chance to redeem yourself. If you plan to go, please contact Carol for tickets, as she can purchase them in bulk and offer them at a discount.

Which witch is which?

One week down, one to go-- only four more chances to see the Crucible before it closes! I am planning to attend next Friday (10/12) and Sunday (final show).

Not only will you get to see Carol portray the smiling Ann Putnam (see below), but she also plays Sarah Good and Martha Corey (both accused of witchcraft). Not since The Wizard of Oz has Carol had to stretch herself to play so many parts (Winkie #6, Ozian #15, and Jitterbug #14).

Ann Putnam, looking uncharacteristically cheerful
after having lost seven of her eight children,
presumably due to witchcraft.

If you in the mood for an uplifting tale of witchcraft, intolerance, and good old fashioned hysteria (just in time for Halloween), look no further! Head right on over to the Stage Coach Players and score some tickets, while you still can!

Hellcab

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Theatre-on-the-Hill Goes for a Wild Ride in "Hellcab," Opening October 26

An eclectic collection of scenes from a day in the life of a Chicago cab driver, Hellcab is a raucous new play that cruises through episodes that range from the absurd to tragic, mirroring the craziness that can ensue when strangers from all walks of life meet for a few brief moments.

Beginning with an early morning trip by a born-again couple, the daylong journey hurdles to a poignant final scene. Alternately frightening, hilarious, and touching, well-acted scenes are punctuated by strategically placed blackouts and music.

The Chicago Tribune said in a recent review, "Despite rough language and some truly nasty bits, [the play] is a joyous and spirited choice for the Christmas season. HELLCAB [is] a real joy ride."

Bolingbrook’s Patrick Green has multiple roles in the show and says, "This play is so unique--it’s not about sets or props, it’s all about acting and dialogue. As an actor it’s a unique challenge, and for audiences, it will be a distinctly different and thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience."

Hellcab is directed by Mary Pavia, assisted by producer Tim Feeney, and executive produced by Craig J. Engel. Cast members include Patrick Green and Cameron Nowicki of Bolingbrook, Dave Callaghan of Downers Grove, Jeanne Scurek and Sarah Conrad of Aurora, Karen Arnold of Westmont, Carol Townsend and Joe Mennella of Carol Stream, Wally Roche of Chicago, Mary Ellen Druyan and Lori Proksa of Clarendon Hills, Danna Durkin of Darien, Scott Boland of Willowbrook, Dana Buxbaum of Lockport, Jannete Quinn of Wheaton, Graig Mason of Westmont.

"Hellcab" opens on Friday, October 26 and continues until November 18 at Bolingbrook’s Performing Arts stage, 375 W. Briarcliff, behind the Town Center Building. Friday and Saturday shows start at 8:00 pm; Sunday matinees begin at 3:00 pm. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time. General admission tickets cost $14.00 for adults; $11.00 for students. For more information, visit www.tothbolingbrook.com.

Photo caption

Chicago’s Wally Roche can’t believe the antics of his latest customers In Theatre-on-the-Hill’s latest production, "Hellcab." Visit tothbolingbrook.com or call Executive Producer Craig Engel at 630-759-2970 for additional details.

Check out those Curves!

While acting is our starlet's dream, it isn't paying the bills (yet!). So, as you may have noticed, Carol has been working a number of other odd-jobs to add some black to the books. Carol is on the way to setting a record for the most W2's in a single tax-year!

That said, if you are in Chicago this Friday, be sure to stop and see Carol on Michigan Ave., between 10am and 3:30pm, where she will be handing out samples of an intriguing new General Mills / Curves product.

On Saturday, you can visit Carol in Elk Grove again. This time she will be promoting iWireless, a pay-as-you-go wireless provider, at Shop4Less on Meacham Rd.

Next week, Carol will be delivering flowers for Fresh & Silk Flowers, in Carol Stream on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Carol has been making good use of her Blazer and delivering for Fresh & Silk on major holidays for the past couple years. If you have any friends or family in the Bartlett, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, West Chicago, Hanover Park, Schaumburg, Streamwood, Wheaton, or Winfield areas, why not order them some flowers for delivery on 10/01, 10/03 or 10/04 next week? Not only will the recipient be surprised by your thoughtful gift, but they will also be able to say that they met Carol Townsend, of stage, small and big screen fame!

All of this, while rehearsing for The Crucible and Hellcab on the remaining days! Sleep is over-rated.

Witches and Weirdos

Hi, Everyone!

Halloween approaches! What better time to see some plays about witches and weirdos!
If you're in the mood for witches, come out to DeKalb to see The Crucible. Show dates are:

Thursdays, October 4 and 11 at 8:00 p.m.
Fridays, October 5 and 12 at 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays, October 6 and 13 at 8:00 p.m.
one Sunday matinée, October 14 at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets are $12.00 for adults, $9.00 for children under 12. If you have a group of 10 or more attending the same performance, you can save $2.00 per ticket!
Go to the Stage Coach Players website for more info!

If you're in the mood for weirdos, come out to Bolingbrook to see Hellcab. Show dates are:

October 26 - November 18
Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.
Sundays at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $14 for adults, and I recommend you leave the kiddies at home. This play contains some very strong language and some mature situations. If you want tickets for Hellcab, please let me know. For every 12 tickets I sell, I can get a $2.00 discount on each ticket. The tickets can be for any performance. If you do call the box office directly for tickets, you won't get the $2.00 discount, but please mention my name, as we're having a little contest for who sells the most tickets. More info is available at the Theatre-on-the-Hill website.

Hope to see you at the theatre!!!
Carol

More ER

Carol is downtown today near Water Tower Place, working on another episode of ER. No details yet on what episode this might be. Stay tuned for details...

UPDATE: This was only short scene featuring Moretti (Stanley Tucci) and some woman getting into a taxi. Carol is in the background sporting pale green capri pants and a Hawaiian floral top.

Carol Returns to the ER

Breaking news... tomorrow, Carol will be working on an episode of ER that will be filming at Wrigley Field. The episode is scheduled to air on October 18th, according to this article, and will feature former Florida Marlin, Derek Lee (for you sports fans). This will mark Carol's fourth appearance on ER (three prior appearances in season 13 can be found here, here, and here), and she will once again be working with John Stamos. More details to follow after the shoot.

UPDATE: Carol reports that there were several shots that might yield Carol-spotting. In two shots, you just might see a smear of color (cream colored pants and blue denim jean jacket) in the background that is vaguely Carol-shaped: one long shot of the bleachers where Carol is across the field from her co-star John, and one where she is behind John in the stands near the third-base line. In a third shot, outside of Wrigley Field, we may be treated to a shot of Carol's butt as we see her walk in front of John while he stands and looks at the park. I can hardly wait!! Set your Tivo for October 18th!

Looking for Some Real Talent?

Then look no further! Carol is now listed with Real Talent, Inc., which is used by advertisers for casting people for magazine ads, corporate brochures, catalogs, and web advertising. Need someone to model that new iPod? Maybe a new face for your corporate capabilities presentation? Carol can do it all! You can find her photos on this page, or direct links to her photos here and here.

Your one-stop destination to beautiful hair.

If you didn't visit the Wal-Mart in DeKalb or Elk Grove Village this week, you have missed your chance to have beautiful hair in only 5 days. I'm sorry, but someone had to say it. Fortunately, Carol had a record turnout, and she helped countless women and men with their hair issues.

"It even smells beautiful!", commented one happy customer.

Today is your last chance to see Carol live and in person at the DeKalb Wal-Mart! If you're in the market for some chips and salsa or parsley dip, you can't pass up this chance to pickup a free sample of Knorr Pico de Gallo and Creamy Parsley Dip. Carol made it herself, and you know what a culinary master she is!

Chicago Overcoat

Greetings Fans!
Carol's busy schedule (rehearsals for two plays, marketing at Wal-Mart), continues to get busier as she was just cast in the gangster indie film, Chicago Overcoat!

"The film takes a chilling look into what remains of the most powerful organized crime syndicate in the second half of the twentieth century. They were known as the 'The Outfit' and controlled the city of Chicago. Their most deadly hit man, the notorious 'Flower Man' Lou Marazano (Frank Vincent) killed several high profile officials without leaving a trace of evidence. Years later he is being pursued by the relentless but terribly flawed Detective Ralph Maloney (Joe Mantegna). Lou takes on one last job for the Outfit but struggles with old age, a splintered family, and a lifetime of regret. This is his story."

The film stars Frank Vincent and Joe Mantegna-- although, Joe is not yet mentioned in the IMDB listing, but is referenced here.

No details yet on what part Carol will have, but filming is tomorrow. Unfortunately, the part is unpaid; however, it reportedly includes screen and IMDB credit! We may be seeing our starlet's name on the big screen!

UPDATE: Carol appeared in two scenes. In one, she was a business woman entering a building as they arrested Joe Barbone. In the second, she was a pedestrian in the background at a press conference-- or as Carol prefers to call it, "attractive (young) woman hailing cab." This was the first shooting for the movie, but they will be filming throughout October and November, so Carol may be called back for additional work (if she can squeeze it in, amidst her busy rehearsal and performance schedule).

Everything is better with Dip!

Greetings fans!
Carol continues to expand her activities in the direct marketing area, with yet another personal appearance. As previously mentioned, Carol will be appearing at Wal-Mart in DeKalb on 9/12 to promote Dove Hair Products; and now she will be making a return appearance on 9/15, this time to promote Knorr Pico de Gallo and Creamy Parsley Dip! Why DeKalb, you may be wondering? The location and timing work out well with her rehearsal schedule for The Crucible. After all, the supplemental income will help offset the cost of gas!

If you're a fan of dip-- and after all, who isn't? -- stop by, say Hi, and get a free sample!

Hellcab!

Hello fans!
Carol started rehearsals this week for her upcoming show, The Crucible. Not satisfied with just one show, Carol has been continuing to audition for other area theaters, and has just been cast in a production of Hellcab, with Bolingbrook's Theatre-on-the-Hill!

The Crucible runs from October 4 - 14 in DeKalb, and Hellcab will run October 26 - November 18 in Bolingbrook (click show titles above for detailed show dates, times, and tickets). It's going to be a busy month of rehearsals!

Carol reflects on her stage debut

Many fans will recall Carol's stage debut (Movin' Right Along), just one year ago this week. My, how time flies! While Carol is not participating in this year's Comedy Revue, she was quoted in a press release by Soapbox Theatre Company, reflecting on her debut stage performance:

Carol Townsend, a cast member from last year’s revue, remembers her experience fondly, describing the show as a modern-day Carol Burnett Show. “I remember, as a kid, absolutely LOVING the Carol Burnett Show – the comedy sketches, the music, just good clean fun. Movin’ Right Along gave me a chance to be in the Carol Burnett show. Granted, a somewhat raunchier, not quite as clean, 21st century type of Carol Burnett show, but the same concept of comedy and music. I had a wonderful time and met some wonderful people!”

Be sure to check out There Are Worse Things We Could Do at Steel Beam Theater in St. Charles. Show details are on the Soapbox Theatre Company web site.

August 17-26, 2007
Steel Beam Theatre, St. Charles
General Admission Ticket Price: $15.00

More Dove Love... at Wal-Mart!

Hello fans,
In a rather bizarre coincidence, Carol will be working on another marketing campaign, this time for Dove hair products. Carol will be live and in-person on 9/12 at the Wal-mart Supercenter in DeKalb, and on 9/13 at the Wal-mart on Meacham Rd. in Elk Grove Village. No details yet on exactly what she will be doing, but you can bet it will be exciting and entertaining! I'm sure if you want to stop by and have your picture taken or get an autograph, Carol would welcome the visit.

Get some Dove Love at Lollapalooza

If you are going to Lollapalooza this weekend, be sure to look for Carol handing out free samples of Dove Promises chocolate bars. Stop by and say Hi! and get your free chocolate fix.