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.

No Carol News Here

Hi all,
This post does not involve Carol at all, (except for the fact that none of the following would be happening if not for Carol), but I thought I would post a little somewhat unrelated news.

Since we worked together on Fred Claus in January, Joan Philo casting has my name and casting photo. So, last week I got a call asking if I could be available for an upcoming scene in Rory's First Kiss! I have no intention or desire to become a regular background actor (I'll leave that to Carol)-- but since this is Ba-- er... Rory's First Kiss-- and I get a costume and everything-- how could I refuse?!

So, this past weekend, I went downtown for my costume fitting, and got decked out in GCPD's finest gear (turtleneck, uniform shirt, pants, boots, and hat--I wonder if we'll get guns, badges, and riot gear on the night of the shoot?) As I was leaving the fitting, some guy asks me, "What part are you?" I told him I was a policeman, and he says. "Turn around." I do so, and he says "Let me trim you up a little." OK, sure. So, I sit down, and he whips out the clippers, to "trim me up a little" (my hair, that is).

To the left is me (and Carol, sporting her RFK hairstyle and dress) before. Long story short (as my hair), I'm now sporting the "cop's haircut" (see below). I had been toying with the idea of going with a shorter style, so this is an interesting way to try it out. I have to say, I like the reduced maintenance!

My call time is this Wednesday at 10:00pm, possibly continuing Thursday night. So, I got a free haircut, and a couple of sleepless nights where I get to play a policeman! As did Carol when she worked a scene for RFK last month, I had to sign an NDA. So, I won't be able to disclose any details. No spoilers here!

Rory's First Kiss Casting Notice

Hello RFK/Bat Fans!
Rumor has it that the extra casting company for Rory's First Kiss has changed. The new casting company can be found at http://rfkcasting.com. They are accepting applications for extras, either by mail or electronically (details and application form are on the site).
Good luck!

7/19 UPDATE: They are apparently not accepting online submissions (and have removed the text from the web site that said that they were). Snail Mail submissions only.