http://billiejokonze.com/rss en-us info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 16 Mar 2006 17:52:06 -0600 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 21:47:38 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.08.06
On March 8th, I got to read the role of Princess Diana in Helene Turnbull's new play at the Playwrights Center's Wednesday evening Roundtable Reading series.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 1 Jun 2006 11:30:18 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.13.06
More Uptown Girl fun! I have been cast as the voice of Sulky Girl in Monkey With a Mustache Productions' new project, Uptown Girl: The Animated Series, based on the comic by Twin Cities artist Bob Lipski. Check the Uptown Girl comic website and the production company website for more information as it becomes available.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 1 Jun 2006 11:29:14 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.25.06
I played a flight attendant in Arden Entertainment's short film "Daddy Dearest," shot on March 25th. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 1 Jun 2006 11:26:13 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.29.06
I was an extra in a Masterlock commercial produced by Twist Film. It was FREEZING out! Can't wait to see it. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 1 Jun 2006 11:57:28 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 05.26.06
I have been cast in the chorus of Gilbert and Sullivan's H.M.S. Pinafore at Theatre in the Round! Pinafore will run weekends (Fri-Sun) from July 14th to August 13th. Check TRP's website above for specific showtimes and other information.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 1 Jun 2006 11:25:47 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.22.06
I have just been cast as Eve in "Alter Egos Episode 1: The Super," by Sam L. Landman. "The Super" is a local independent feature-length comedy about a man who suddenly and unwillingly is thrust into the midst of a world of dueling superheroes. Eve, unbeknownst to Clyde, is the frumpy real person behind the superhero Miss Sim, who can inhabit up to 30 different bodies at one time.

"The Super" will be filmed later this summer.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 27 Jun 2006 07:28:53 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 07.20.06
I had a shoot with Dani Werner and soon I will have a new commercial headshot to add! Keep checking back.]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 24 Jul 2006 07:39:07 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 07.24.06
I shot a spot for Dunwoody Institute with Two Popes Film on Saturday, July 22nd. I played a jilted bride. Look for it soon on TV here in the TC! (And check out the Popes' website! It's got all sorts of fun features) I should also have pictures from the shoot shortly and will add them to my gallery when I do.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 24 Jul 2006 07:37:36 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.10.06
I played a nurse in a TV spot for Evercare assisted-living community. The spot was produced by Washington Square Films, out of NYC. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 24 Aug 2006 06:12:30 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.18.06
I have added a resume, photo gallery and contact info to my listing on IMDB.


Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 24 Aug 2006 06:12:49 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 09.01.06
I've had quite a few people say "Was that you crying in that spot for Dunwoody?"

Yes. It was me. And yes, I was really crying. I spilled some milk. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 5 Sep 2006 11:28:42 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 09.11.06
The trailer for Alter Egos: The Super is now up on the TMJ Productions website. Check it out!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 11 Sep 2006 07:26:30 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.12.06
On October 21st, I will be reading the role of Cressida in a reading with The Artists' Shakespeare Festival and director Jeffrey Alan Haas. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 12 Oct 2006 11:08:32 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 11.02.06
Up next, I will be filming a spot for Galaxy Auto Centers through Comcast Spotlight. The spot will be a send up of the Twilight Zone 1950's black & white sci-fi style. Should be fun!

I will also be playing the role of Julie in "LOVE: A Documentary," produced by David Ash. The film is a mockumentary about a man who tries to spread love throughout the world...starting with his office job.

The cast for "LOVE":
JOHN......Dave Ash
CAMERAMAN.......Chris Mick
BOSS.......Scott Jorgenson
ROB........Paul Clark
TIM.......Noah Bremer
JULIE.......Billie Jo Konze
MELISSA.......Jeannie Singer

Check out Dave's (really fantastic) website at the link below!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 2 Nov 2006 03:28:47 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 12.06.06
Come see the trailer for Alter Egos: The Super TONIGHT at the December "Fearless Filmmakers" Screening Event!!

What: A screening of 9 local short films and trailers

Where: The Riverview Theater
3800 42nd Ave South
Minneapolis MN 55406

When: Wednesday December 6th
Screening begins at 7 PM with Q and A with all filmmakers to follow

Tix are $9 General Admission and $7 for students. These can be
purchasedc starting on December 6th at the Riverview where box office
will open at 6 PM.

See you there!
]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 6 Dec 2006 04:16:06 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 02.10.07
I'm posting this after the fact because I've been so busy, but I just participated in the Theatre Unbound 24 Hour Play Project. It was a benefit for the company, and it was a great time!

The playwrights started writing at 9pm, and at 8am I got a call to let me know when I'd be needed for rehearsal. I rehearsed with Noe Tallen and Sam Landman from 10am to about noon. The director of our piece was Ellen Fenster, with whom I went to college (Noe as well, actually). We had to be at the theatre at 5:45 that night for a quick tech and then the performance started at 8pm. Our piece was a just-over-6-minute play about a guy, his wife, his fantasy girl (that was me), and a bowling trophy. We crammed our lines like crazy up until the performance. Overall, I think it went pretty well. It was kinda like a rollercoaster...the slow climb up the hill and then once we were onstage (we went first out of all the plays) it went by so fast and without time to think that I really don't know what happened. But people laughed at my lines and I had a fun time, so what more could I ask for? ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 13 Feb 2007 07:15:18 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.22.07
A seven-minute preview trailer of LOVE: A Documentary (which I worked on last fall) will be shown at this month's Fearless Filmmakers event. If you can't make it to this one, don't fret--the feature-length film will have a full screening when it is finished.

See below for more information, and check out the excerpt from City Pages about the upcoming Fearless Filmmakers:

"This month's entry in the ongoing series of local and regional shorts
programs has style to burn. Justin Pierre's "KAREN" features bleached
compositions, stylized hipster-speak, and one hilarious sequence that
could only be described as an ADD response to long takes. "Girl Next
Door" turns a winking camp-romp into a surrealistic exercise in horror
formalism. A woman alone in a spooky house chit-chats with her
boyfriend on the phone while preparing a late-night snack. He warns
about "that chick who killed all the guys" in the very house she
resides in now; she sets up in front of the tube for some
fundamentalist Christian programming; and somewhere in the dark lurks
a bound, half-naked man. Written and directed by Joe Johnson, this
snarky freak-fest is a fiendishly entertaining lucid dream that
deserves repeat viewings before bedtime. Another visually superb entry
in a well-worn genre is Steve Blehert and Aaron Gelperin's office
comedy "The Man Who Couldn't Stop Eating Cake." Even for those of us
who've had our fill of wry comedies about obnoxious coworkers,
white-walled prisons, and the inevitable cubicle freakout, this absurd
comedy finds a hook: an enormous sheet cake, which answers the prayers of one particularly doomed key-pusher. Methodically spooning chunk after chunk of sugary salvation, our everyman disappears on a
delirious trip while the filmmakers ratchet up style points to rival
his caloric intake." (John Behling)

Thanks City Pages!! AND!!! Justin Pierre from Motion City Soundtrack
WILL BE PRESENT! So mark your calenders with the info below:

What: March Fearless Filmmakers Screening

Where: The Oak Street Cinema (612 331 3134)
309 Oak Street SE
Minneapolis MN 55414

When: Wednesday, March 28th, 2007 Screening begins at 7:30 PM.

Who: Films by Justin Pierre, Ryan Schaddelee, Ryan Taylor, Charles
Bonin, Joe Johnson, Benjamin Martin, Steve Blehart, Matt Osterman,
Greg Winter, Dave Ash.

What Else: Official After party at Stub and Herbs at 9:30 PM.
227 Oak Street SE
Minneapolis MN 55414

Official After Party will feature Free Food, Free Drinks, Live music
by DJ Thea, and the chance to rub elbows with the local film
community. Tickets for this event are available only on Wednesday
March 28th at 6pm at the Oak Street Cinema Box Office. Ticket prices
are $9 General Admission, $7 Students, $5 MN Film Arts members. Get
your tickets early, as this event will likely sell out.
]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 22 Mar 2007 10:03:52 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.11.07
I have just been cast in Workhouse Theatre's production of A Company of Wayward Saints, which will perform in the Camden neighborhood of North Minneapolis in June, directed by Diane Mountford of the Minnesota Shakespeare Project. I will be playing Isabella. I will post show dates soon; in the meantime, read on to find out more about the show!

Information about the show:
The company in the title is a commedia dell' arte company who wander by mistake into the eye of an allegory. Far from home and without means for the return trip, a nobleman may be their only salvation if they can put on a good show for him. But to a group of actors far too selfish, self-important and self-indulgent to work together this proves to be a challenge they may be unable to overcome. They attempt to put on ‘The History of Man’ in a last ditch attempt to buy their way back home. They parody events in the history of man, from Adam and Eve to the assassination of Caesar, before artistic temperaments, backbiting and jealous outbursts threaten to topple the show. When they come back together they resolve to focus on the more definitive aspects of human life as they explore The History of A Man, one man.



Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 11 Apr 2007 11:35:18 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 05.03.07
Last weekend we wrapped filming on Aaron's 16mm short for MCTC. The film is processed, but it will be a bit yet before a cut is available. I've seen a rough cut with footage from the first two shoots, and it looks great so far! There may be screenings of it eventually--I'll let you all know. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 3 May 2007 11:20:56 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 05.03.07
Okay, so it's a bit premature to mention perhaps, but I made an appointment with Dani Werner to get new headshots. She has done two other sets of headshots for me, and I think she's great. The shoot date is June 8th, so I won't have them for a few more months yet, but I'm still excited. Now I just have to find a new stylist so that my hair is presentable...]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 3 May 2007 11:26:34 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.05.07
A Company of Wayward Saints
By George Herman
Directed by Diane Mountford

The company in the title is a commedia dell' arte company who wander by mistake into the eye of an allegory. Far from home and without means for the return trip, a nobleman may be their only salvation if they can put on a good show for him. But to a group of actors far too selfish, self-important and self-indulgent to work together this proves to be a challenge they may be unable to overcome. They attempt to put on 'The History of Man' in a last ditch attempt to buy their way back home. They parody events in the history of man, from Adam and Eve to the assassination of Caesar, before artistic temperaments, backbiting and jealous outbursts threaten to tear them apart. When they come back together they resolve to focus on the more definitive aspects of human life as they explore The History of A Man, one man.

Performances June 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23
Curtain at 7:30
All performance are at the Warren (4400 Osseo Road)
Tickets are $10 ($8 for seniors and students with a valid I.D.)

Featuring: Eric Avery, Robert Larson, Ann Brummer, Valarie Falkan, Stephen Bucko, Debra Stone, Billie Jo Konze, Christopher McGahan, Luke Weber

To order tickets online, please visit: http://www.workhousetheatre.org
To reserve your seat call 612-237-2014

WANT TO SEE THE SHOW FOR FREE? We will need at least two ushers and two box office staff members for each performance night. Ushers have to arrive at least 45 minutes before the show, help out at intermission, and see the show for free. If you would like to volunteer, please send an email to: jeff@workhousetheatre.org


Hope to see you at the show!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 5 Jun 2007 05:48:23 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.05.07
My headshots had to be postponed--no news yet on when they will be happening now.

I have news from my friend Lu in NYC, however, that he should have my new demo reel done in a week! That's very exciting.

I was just cast in a spec commercial based on Goodfellas that's being produced by New World Productions. No news on a shoot date for that yet.

Oh, yeah...come see my show with Workhouse Theater starting this weekend! ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 5 Jun 2007 05:52:25 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.26.07
On Sunday June 24th I spent the evening working with Todd Gross of New World Productions on a spec spot for Al Vento, an Italian restaurant in south Minneapolis. After four hours of sitting in a chair getting prettied up by two stylists (Kenny and Z), I teetered around on high heels playing mistress to a mob boss played by actor Eric David. My fake nails kept falling off, but aside from that my hair and makeup looked spectacular, and it was quite fun looking like Miss Texas for the evening. Todd said we'll be able to view the spot soon. I'll keep you all updated!]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 26 Jun 2007 09:29:41 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.26.07
July 27th with Dani Werner. That gives me a month to figure out what to wear. ;)]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 26 Jun 2007 09:31:14 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.28.07
]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 28 Jun 2007 09:40:10 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.23.07
SONGS FROM THE TALL GRASS - The Musical

At The Illusion Theater, 8th Floor of the Hennepin Center for the Arts
September 7th and 8th, 8pm
Tickets $18 General Admission, $5 for students, $3 discount for Fringe button holders!

The Greeks have their Odyssey. Finland has its Kalevala. And now the Great Plains of America has Songs From The Tall Grass . A new musical that follows a modern story within an historical journey, Songs From The Tall Grass is truly an epic poem of the prairie. Using a musical theater setting, Songs From The Tall Grass weaves lyrics from musical primers from the 1800s with original, modern-day music to create a feast for the contemporary ear. Wrapped around a story of discovery, Songs From The Tall Grass delivers real tales from the past that captivate audiences, enchant the senses, and stimulate thoughtful discussions about history, family, and our hopes for the future.

Winner of both the 2007 National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Three Centuries of Artistic Genius grant as well as the 2005 National Endowment for the Arts Challenge America grant, in 2001, Songs From The Tall Grass fittingly made its world's premiere at the historic Ford's Theater in Washington, DC, the cornerstone of American history and culture.

For reservations, please call the Illusion Theater at 612-339-4944
www.illusiontheater.org


Songs From The Tall Grass will also be visiting Fergus Falls, MN; Bayfield, WI; Albert Lea, MN; Fargo, ND; Jamestown, ND; Detroit Lakes, MN; Cokato, MN; Brainerd, MN; and Dawson, MN. Please see the website for tour dates.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 23 Aug 2007 10:39:13 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 09.11.07
Coming up this week:

Jamestown, ND on 9/12
Detroit Lakes, MN on 9/15

The rest of the tour:
Brainerd, MN on 9/20 and 9/21
Cokato, MN on 9/22
Dawson, MN on 9/23
MSU Moorhead on 9/27
Fergus Falls, MN on 9/28, 9/29 and 9/30

Check the website for more info!


Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 11 Sep 2007 18:15:03 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 11.12.07
This one came and went before I even had time to post. On November 10th and 11th I was part of a short film being shot by MCAD student Maxwell Becker. The film, titled "A Good Man" was shot in Eden Prairie, MN. Based on a short story, the film is about a family on their way to the cabin who have an encounter with a man called "The Misfit."

Characters:
Mother (Gretchen): Billie Jo Konze
Father (Bailey): Greg Hernandez
Grandmother:
Child (June): Melissa Hanson
Child (John): Blade Yocum
The Misfit: Charles Hubbell
Hiram: Stephen Gurewitz
Bobby Lee: Mike Yocum

Production Crew:
Adam Ginsberg, Britni West, Joe Clark, Rachel Morgan, Stephen Gurewitz]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 12 Nov 2007 05:04:56 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 12.18.07
Who says blondes have more fun?

I've decided to go brunette for a while. I may get bangs at some point as well, but for now it's just going to be long and dark. I was going for a look similar to other pale-skinned, blue-eyed girls like Zooey Deschanel. I'm very excited to get new headshots and show off the new look!

]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 19 Dec 2007 08:03:01 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 12.19.07
I have been cast as Deborah in No Refunds Theatre's stage adaptation of the graphic novel "What's Done in the Dark," which will have three weekends of performances in March.

Coming up, I am also workshopping a stage adaptation of Willa Cather's classic novel "My Antonia" at the Illusion Theater.

Keep your eyes on the website for more news and updates after the holidays!]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 2 Jan 2008 04:45:13 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 01.02.08
A new year, a new look...perhaps a new website as well! It may be a while, but a new site is now in the works. More information as it becomes available.]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 2 Jan 2008 04:46:14 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 01.11.08
On February 2nd, I will be performing once again in the 24 Hour Play Project with Theatre Unbound. Last year's was great fun and also a challenge, having to learn a role in a very short period of time. I'm looking forward to doing it again! See below for ticket details.

Seventh Annual 24 Hour Play Project & Benefit Gala
February 2, 2008
One night only!

Who said Rome wasn't built in a day?
Over 40 Twin Cities playwrights, firectors, and actors dazzle us every year with six new short plays written, rehearsed, and propelled onto the stage. The catch? They only have 24 hours to do it! Eat, drink, bid and marvel as "prominent local artists walk the tightrope of on-the-spot creation" (City Pages).

Special Guest Host:
Allegra Lingo

Eat, Drink and Be Merry:
Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and cocktails
Silent and live auctions

Vote on the Secret Ingredients:
Back by popular demand: the Theatre Unbound 24-Hour Play Project Ballot! The items that receive the most votes will become the "ingredients" that playwrights must use in the brand-new plays they'll write for our Seventh Annual 24-Hour Play Project and Benefit Gala. Get your friends to vote! Campaign for the items you want to see onstage! Then join us in February to discover the winning ingredients.

Time:
Doors open at 7:00 PM
Performance begins at 8:00 PM

Location:
The Neighborhood House
in the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center
179 Robie Street East
St. Paul, MN 55107

Tickets:
Reservations: 612-721-1186
Ticket Prices: $35.00/single, $50.00/couple
(a couple is any 2 people who choose to attend the event together)

You can purchase your tickets with cash or a check at the door on the night of the Benefit. Or you can purchase your tickets online in advance at the website above.


Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Fri, 11 Jan 2008 03:09:37 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.01.08


My latest show went up last night, and I realized I forgot to put all the info on my website. Here goes--

Forty years ago, a boy appeared at a murder scene. He hadn’t seen the crime, and knew neither victim nor murderer.Yet, he could tell the police exactly what was done, by whom, and for what reasons. For the next 30 years he assisted the police, leaving no crime unsolved.

Then, he disappeared.

This is the story of The Witness.

Showtimes (All performances at the Red Eye Theater, 15 West 14th Street Minneapolis, MN 55403):

* Friday, February 29 @ 8pm*
* Saturday, March 1 @ 8pm
* Sunday, March 2 @ 4pm
* Friday, March 7 @ 8pm
* Saturday, March 8 @ 8pm
* Sunday, March 9 @ 4pm
* Monday, March 10 @ 8pm**
* Thursday, March 13 @ 8pm
* Friday, March 14 @ 8pm
* Saturday, March 15 @ 8pm
* Sunday, March 16 @ 4pm


*Reception to follow
**Pay-what-you can night

Tickets: $12 ($10 with Student ID, Fringe Button, black belts, certified ninjas, members of the clergy, veterans (active duty, reserved & retired), a lazy eye, possession of demonstrable superpowers, proficiency in Elvish, Dwarvish, or Creole.)

For reservations call 651-245-2527 or email info@norefundstheatre.com
Additional information is available at www.norefundstheatre.com

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sat, 1 Mar 2008 10:20:49 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.10.08
Matthew Everett, blogger extraordinaire, reviewed our show this weekend. We are all very happy that our only review was a glowing one. Read on:

Review - What’s Done In The Dark - No Refunds Theatre - 4-1/2 stars Mar 08, 2008


“His hands were clean. The rest of him was a mess. But his hands were clean.”

Damn, that was a hell of a lot of fun.

That was my first reaction at the end of watching the all-too-brief offering currently on stage at the Red Eye from No Refunds Theatre Company, “What’s Done In The Dark.” When you bill your production as “A Graphic Novel On Stage,” you set the bar of expectations pretty high. On nearly every front, “What’s Done In The Dark” delivers in fine style.

Personally, I’m not a big reader of graphic novels (or comic books). That’s more my brother’s bailiwick. Me, I drop in and out occasionally, enjoying something off-kilter like “The Flaming Carrot” or hopelessly mainstream like “Spiderman.” I’ve probably seen more movies based on comic books and graphic novels than I’ve actually read the source material. Things like “Sin City” tend to amuse the hell out of me. I like to think I can appreciate a good story, well-told, regardless of the genre or the style of presentation. If I’m tremendously entertained, so much the better. “What’s Done In The Dark” is tremendously entertaining. Bottom-line, it’s just good theater, which is really refreshing.

It’s hard to talk about “What’s Done In The Dark” without giving the twists and turns away, and they are a large part of the fun, but I’ll do my best not to be a spoiler.

There are only three characters - police officer Michael King (Kiseung Rhee); Deborah Seever (Billie Jo Konze), a woman widowed by the brutal murder of her husband; and a man known only as The Witness (Robert C. Hammel). All three actors turn in solid, enjoyable, substantial performances. Only one of these characters is what they seem to be - to say which one, would be telling. And unfortunately, to go into detail about why each of their performances is so effective would also give the game away.

The Witness was given an unusual gift as a young man. A psychic ability was passed on to him (how, again, would be telling - the story has several layers before the truth is revealed). When The Witness is presented with the scene of a murder, and he touches the spot where it happened, he takes on both the life story of the victim and the murderer, including the motive for the crime. As you might expect, this gift is a mixed blessing. Over thirty years’ time, many violent crimes were solved with his help, but the flood of painful experiences took their toll. Suddenly, twelve years ago, The Witness vanished. No explanation, just withdrew from the world. Now Deborah Seever has tracked The Witness down, intent on solving her husband’s murder of five years back, which has stumped the police, and all private detectives she hired to take the case. Michael King, The Witness’ former contact on the police force, has mixed feelings about teaming up again with the man who abandoned him. Why The Witness disappeared is another secret best kept until one sees the show, but it’s a doozy.

There are a number of things about “What’s Done In The Dark” that are impressive. One of them is that they do it all with a metal table, three chairs and three actors. The reason you don’t feel they’re skimping is the stunning use of projections on the back wall, the kind of thing the Red Eye space was built for, and of which No Refunds takes full advantage. For some reason, I can’t find the information crediting the artist in the program, but if I’m remembering correctly from the end credits (it’s animation as well as individual images throughout), the amazing artwork is the contribution of Ian Llanas. Not only does the artwork capture that look of panels in a graphic novel - vivid, clean, two-dimensional verging on three-dimensional - it often springs to life in unexpected ways. Pictures layer one over another, leading the audience through a sequence of images and ideas, propelling the scenes forward and fleshing out the backstory. The special effects which take the audience inside one of The Witness’ crime scene contacts are great fun. Also of note is a truly lovely evocation of the inside of a church that serves as the scene of yet another crime. An apartment, a graveyard, an isolated cabin, a deserted field, a police interrogation room - they all come to vivid life and set the stage for the action.

Steph Drinkard’s work with lights, and director Reid Knutilla’s keen sense of composition, build on top of Llanas’ visuals. There were several moments throughout when the image of actors silhouetted against those backdrops as scenes were gearing up or winding down actually gave me goosebumps. It says a lot about a production when even some of the transitions between scenes are thrilling to watch.

The chief virtue of Matt Dawson’s script is that it strikes that tricky balance between lofty ideas and down-and-dirty murder mystery. The story never devolves into complete fluff, while also never becoming ponderous as it contemplates the larger issues of guilt and innocence, crime and punishment, duty and self-preservation. “What’s Done In The Dark” is sly pulpy fun that you don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying. It’s got a brain, and a twisted heart, as well as adrenalin. While the text often relies on mountains of exposition, it nearly always pulls it off because the story is that clever, at times even poetic, and the performances are that good. Director Knuttila also deserves a lot of credit for taking all that talk and finding ways to stage it and make it compelling to watch.

Minor quibbles - for a production with this much polish, sometimes the scene changes seemed a bit clunky. It would have been nice if the whole thing flowed just a bit more smoothly. Still, if it’s an excuse to hear some Johnny Cash in the dark, I’m game.

Also, despite the great work from this trio of actors, and the wonderfully complex central character of The Witness, the play sometimes showed the strain of being confined to just three characters. With a host of victims and murderers out there, and a well-populated backstory for all three onstage characters, a bit more of the visual presentation of those myriad other people, or even an extra actual body on stage moving about and interacting with the others, might have helped the feeling of claustrophobia. Plus, it almost gives the game away if the audience knows there’s a murder to be solved, and only three possible options for people to implicate. Even so, the play is incredibly creative - no one’s guilty in the way you think they’re going to be.

Also, there’s suspension of disbelief, and there’s suspension of disbelief. There’s a central connecting idea between all the murders which left me scratching my head and wondering, “Didn’t this guy, or the multitude of incredibly fertile women he bedded down with, know anything about contraception?”

But it’s all a symptom of a larger issue for “What’s Done In The Dark” which is - I want more.

This is a good problem for a play to have. While I didn’t feel cheated in any way, I did find myself wanting more. The whole production clocks in at just a little over an hour. It’s an enjoyable and well-stuffed hour to be sure, but with this much talent on display, think what they could have done with a bit more room for the story to breathe. Many productions these days have the opposite problem - you feel they’re over, or should be over, long before they actually stop. It’s not often a production leaves me wanting more. “What’s Done In The Dark” definitely has room to grow. I hope No Refunds continues to explore this production conceit. Like their Kung Fu outings of the past, the basic premise is rich with possibility, and they clearly have the talent to deliver on it.

The night I saw the production, there were only a dozen people in the house. That’s a shame. Go see it. “What’s Done In The Dark” deserves big crowds. It’s the most genuine fun I’ve had watching a piece of theater in ages.

Very highly recommended.

“What’s Done In The Dark” continues through Sunday, March 16th. All performances take place at the Red Eye Theater, 15 West 14th Street in Minneapolis. It plays Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, and Sundays at 4pm, with a special pay-what-you-can performance this coming Monday night, March 10th at 8pm and an additional Thursday performance this week March 13th at 8pm. Tickets are $12 ($10 with Student ID, Fringe Button, black belts, certified ninjas, members of the clergy, veterans (active duty, reserved & retired), a lazy eye, possession of demonstrable superpowers, proficiency in Elvish, Dwarvish, or Creole). (I’m not making that up, it’s on their website.) For reservations call 651-245-2527 or email info@norefundstheatre.com. More information is available at www.norefundstheatre.com



Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 10 Mar 2008 03:21:00 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.08.08
A few weeks ago, I had new headshots taken by Dani Werner. I should have these within the next few weeks, and they will also be included in Wehmann Agency's new book that will be going out to the ad agencies and casting agents.

I am very excited that I will finally have shots of what I look like with the new hair!

I will post them here as soon as I have them...keep your eye on the photos page!]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 8 Apr 2008 11:15:34 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.11.08
Last night I did a shoot for a Cox Communications spot created by Periscope and produced by Blue 60 Pictures. I played a receptionist in a law office. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Fri, 11 Apr 2008 08:51:36 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.23.08
I have been accepted to the Cabaret Conference at Yale University, which will take place at the end of July. I am very excited to be a part of this conference and know it will be a great opportunity for me.

Here is information about the conference from the website:

The Sixth Annual Cabaret Conference At Yale University will be held July 25-August 3, 2008, and is an internationally focused, nine-day teaching program that offers an intensive look at the art of cabaret performance technique, and trains professionals for the live entertainment industry in the 21st century. The Great American Songbook will be addressed and promoted in its entirety, from its origins in the late 19th century through the classic pop standards of the 1930s and 40s to today’s contemporary cabaret, musical theater, jazz and pop music.

The award-winning faculty, and renowned special guests, will guide thirty-six students in a collaborative process of critical refining and honing. The conference will feature classes and lectures covering cabaret performance technique, acting for singers, lyric interpretation, focus and concentration, act structure, act writing, material research, and comedic development, to musical director and director relations, arranging, orchestration, composer/lyricist relations, maintenance of the vocal instrument, and image consultation. Examine the final stages of act presentation through club relations, marketing, press and public relations, to the technical language of light and sound, representation, booking, management and personal networking; with an emphasis on integration into the live entertainment community.

Public performances will allow the students to observe first-hand the performance techniques of professionals in the industry, while continuing to study those of their peers on a daily performance basis. At the Cabaret Conference Curtain Call the students will perform, demonstrating what they have accomplished in their nine days at the Cabaret Conference at Yale University.



Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:59:52 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.30.08
I just found out I have been cast in the local feature film "Paper Mache" which has already begun production. More info as it becomes available. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:32:49 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.02.08
I have added new photos to the Headshots, etc. section and to the Fun Photos section. Please go check them out! (They're not all new, just things I haven't thought to add before.)

Enjoy!
]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 2 Jun 2008 12:21:54 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.24.08
Hey everyone!

From July 17th-20th I will be performing in a new musical-in-progress called "Cirque de Guerre" for the Illusion Theater's Fresh Ink Series. Only four performances, so I hope to see you there!


Cirque de Guerre

by Beth Gilleland, Blayn Lemke & Bill Berneking

Told in a series of vignettes, Cirque de Guerre is a comedic satirical piece about the mayhem of war. A menagerie of daredevil acts with philosophers, mothers, clowns, businessmen, a bombshell, and a wolf in sheep's clothing. Collaborating on Cirque de Guerre are Illusion Theater Artistic Associate Beth Gilleland, a noted Twin Cities playwright and actor; Blayn Lemke, an actor and educator who has worked in the Twin Cities Theater Community for over 20 years; and Bill Berneking, a long time social activist devoted to Peace and Social Justice work, who is currently advocating for Every Church A Peace Church - the transformation of war-justifying churches into peace churches.

The impulse for creating Cirque de Guerre comes from several members of the Twin Cities' Every Church a Peace Church movement. This movement reflects how the Church has moved from an original position of non-violence to the adoption of criteria for a "just" war to the argument that a "just" war is not possible in today's world. This philosophical perspective is the underpinning of the argument of the play, but the collaborators soon realized that a sobering piece about the devastation of war would not be the best way to communicate these views. What they came up with instead is Cirque de Guerre, a circus of theatrical and musical ideas about war. In Illusion's Fresh Ink Series this summer, they will stage a first take on this idea of a comedic play about the absurdity of a "just" war.

Cirque de Guerre
Thursday, July 17 at 8pm
Friday, July 18 at 8pm
Saturday, July 19 at 8pm
Sunday, July 20 at 7pm

Tickets: $15
To order, call 612-339-4944 or go to www.illusiontheater.org.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:25:53 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.10.08
I have just returned from a wonderful trip to New Haven, CT, where I participated in the Cabaret Conference at Yale University. What a great experience! (For more info about my experiences at the conference, see my blog)

I will be performing in a piece from The Illusion Theater's "Cirque de Guerre" at Spark 24 (Time TBA--I was told 3:45PM on Sunday, August 31st, but the schedule on the Spark website says differently) which is a non-stop marathon of free arts events taking place just before the beginning of the Republican National Convention, showcasing arts organizations from the Twin Cities.
http://spark24.org/

Cirque de Guerre will also have one more performance coming soon. I will post details when I have them.


Also, LOVE: A Documentary, the film I worked on almost a year and a half ago, will be shown as part of the Minneapolis Underground Film Festival on Saturday, August 30th at 1:30PM at MCAD. See the website for details.
http://www.loveadocumentary.com/
http://www.minneapolisundergroundfilmfestival.com/

LOVE will also be screening as part of the Homegrown Cinema series on Monday, October 13th at 7:30PM at the Parkway Theater at 4814 Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis.
http://www.myspace.com/homegrowncinema

LOVE was recently featured on Minnewood's website in an interview about the making of the film. Check it out at http://minnewood.com/ Go to "Local Scene"

Keep checking back for more upcoming performances, screenings and the like!]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 10 Aug 2008 07:56:30 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 09.15.08
This coming Friday, September 19th, we will be doing one more performance of "Cirque de Guerre" at a peace conference at St. Thomas.

Details following:

7:00 p.m.
University of St. Thomas, O'Shaughnessy Center, 2115 Summit Avenue, St. Paul

"Cirque de Guerre" (French for "Circus of War"), uses a circus motif to present a series of comedic and satirical acts or scenes about the absurdity and immorality of the Just War concept.

Tickets: $20.00 (Students: $10.00).

Sponsored by: Every Church a Peace Church (ECAPC).]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 14 Sep 2008 20:17:56 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 09.15.08
I am now performing on the MN Zephyr! (It's a train that does lunch and dinner runs out of Stillwater). The Zephyr Cabaret is a quartet that delights Zephyr guests with well-known tunes from the 40's and 50's. Enjoy an elegant five-course dinner while viewing the fall colors!

I will performing on lunch runs only--dates coming up that I will be on the train: Sept. 16, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 30th. I will put up my October schedule when it becomes available.

Hope to see you on the rails!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 14 Sep 2008 20:26:34 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.11.08
Today was my first of two days shooting a short film titled "Guy Meets Girl" with Urban Mountain Media. For the first time EVER on a film set, we were actually ahead of schedule the WHOLE DAY! I had a fantastic time working with this group of people, director Harrison Reeder, Thomas Bishop, Jess Dalbec, and everyone else on the crew. And of course the other cast member, Clarence Wethern.

We have one more shoot date at the end of October. I'll keep the info updated, so check back here for screening info in a few months!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sat, 11 Oct 2008 15:48:20 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.11.08
Although it was "sneak previewed" at the Minneapolis Underground Film Festival a few weeks ago, "LOVE: A Documentary" will have its official premiere Monday night! I won't be there, because I'll be at class, but I hope people make it down. I've seen rough cuts of the film, and Dave's character work is fantastic. It's a hilarious film. Check it out at the website listed below, and get on down to the premiere!

Where: The Parkway Theater, 4814 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55417

When: Monday, October 13, 7:30 PM

Following the screening will be a Director Q&A and then an after-party next door at Pepito's.

More info on the film, including clips and a trailer, is available on the official website: http://www.loveadocumentary.com/

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sat, 11 Oct 2008 15:52:18 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.12.08
I'm in rehearsal for a short play with 20% Theatre--I'm playing one of the Russian revolutionaries who helped assassinate Tsar Alexander II in 1881. Info below!


20% Theatre Company, 3AM Productions, The Flower Shop Project, Kaleidoscope Theatre, and Swandive Theatre Company come together for
QUICKIES #2
an evening of brand spankin' new short plays!

including . . .

3.1.81 by Valerie Jean Johnson
directed by Claire Avitabile
Starring Danielle Siver, Emma Gochberg, Eva Nelson, Billie Jo Konze, Ariel Pinkerton, and Caitlin Hammel.

Six women. Revolutionaries. Terrorists. A meditation on violence as political action, inspired by the real-life memoir of Vera Figner. This play is about choosing violence, choosing terrorism, as a means of liberation and freedom from oppression. It is a play about a woman choosing to abandon and betray her pre-established role of wife and mother in order to live the life and seek the life she desires. Vera Figner was a revolutionist who, with a gaggle of female friends in tow, known as "The Will of the People", planned to and successfully overthrew Czar Alexander II in Russia on March 1, 1881. She was not arrested until two years later, and playwright Valerie Jean Johnson draws the text of 3.1.81 from Figner's journals, poetry, and prison scribbles.

November 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 at 7pm
Bryant Lake Bowl - Minneapolis

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:08:43 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 11.09.08
Lots of stuff going on lately!

3.1.81 is up and running at the Quickies short play festival at Bryant-Lake Bowl. Two more weekends to come and check that out! Plays Fridays and Sundays at 7pm.

Just finished shooting a short film called "Guy Meets Girl" with Urban Mountain Media, directed by Harrison Reeder and co-starring Clarence Wethern. It was a fun film to shoot, and UMM was a really great team to work with. Harry has a rough cut already, so I'll put up more news when the thing is fully edited.

I'll be back on the train for one more performance this Thursday noon, so if you want to ride the Zephyr, that's the day to go!

I was just cast by Murder Mystery Players, and will be joining them. I'm excited! Most of the parties will be private, but if any public parties come up, I will make sure to post info about them.

"LOVE: A Documentary" by Dave Ash and 355 Productions was featured on Matt Peiken's blog 3 Minute Egg. Check it out!

And also, my improv class/team will be performing at Six Ring Circus as we close out level 3 of our performance track improv class. Come see us play in front of an audience on November 18th! (I think that's the date...I'll update this if it's not right)

Hope to see you in the audience at one of my performances soon!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 9 Nov 2008 17:26:19 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 12.06.08
Tonight marks my debut as Mitzi O'Malley in "Death Playes the Market" with Murder Mystery Players. Tonight's show is a private corporate show at Dave and Buster's in Maple Grove, but I will make sure to give notice of any possible public performances in the future. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sat, 6 Dec 2008 07:08:29 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 01.11.09
No news is supposedly good news. The new year is easing in slowly, with a bad economy making things fairly boring. But I have been busy with auditions, nothing to report yet, but I am optimistic.

The only news I do have to report at this time has nothing to do with acting, really. I will be working with Sample Night Live this year, booking theatre companies to perform at Sample Night's monthly...sampling...of the Twin Cities' best performing arts groups! If you are reading this, and you are with a company, and you'd like to perform with us, feel free to get in touch with me. My first meeting is this week, and I can't wait to get started!

I am also working with Commedia Beauregard, doing advertising sales for their program, so if you'd like to advertise with CB Theatre, feel free to email me at billie@cbtheatre.org. Rates are amazing reasonable, with a quarter page interior ad starting at $45. Brilliant.

Oh, and I guess I lied when I said I had no news, because actually--and I just remembered this--the film "Boy Meets Girl," a fun romp through various parodied film genres costarring the fantastic Clarence Wethern and myself, directed by Harrison Reeder, will be screening at the Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis on Friday, January 16th! Doors open at 6:30pm with wine, beer and snacks available to purchase. Film(s) will start around 7:30pm. Harrison is hoping to get a few other films shown with his, as it's a short film. I won't be there, but you should go check it out!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 11 Jan 2009 15:23:21 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 02.05.09
GRAIN BELT ARTISTS COLLECTIVE PRESENTS ART ACHE

A FREE MULTI-MEDIA, INTERACTIVE EVENT

At the Grain Belt Bottling House in Northeast Minneapolis, Film, Music, Art and More

The Grain Belt Bottling House, Northeast Minneapolis, 79 13th Avenue N.E., Minneapolis, MN 55413. February 6th 6 pm-midnight, February7th noon-8 pm, February8th noon-4 pm.

The Grain Belt Artists present a free multi-media event featuring resident and guest artists working in film, music, performance art, painting, sculpture and photography. This special event will begin with an opening reception on Friday, February 6th, 6 pm-midnight and will continue throughout the weekend on Saturday, February7th, noon-8 pm and Sunday, February 8th noon-4 pm. Performance events will be scheduled all three days, stop by the Grain Belt Bottling House for a complete listing.

Resident Grain Belt artists participating in this event include:
Jeanne Frink, Jeff Hirst, Caitlin Karolczak, Zoran Mojsilov, Holly Nelson, Natalie Northrup, Tom Riggle, Brian Severns, Lynn Speaker and Coffee House Press.

Selected guest artists participating in the Art Ache are:

Visual Artists:
Scott Anderson, Dave Ash, Samuel Bjorgum, Teri Bloch, Jocelyn Bullock, Summer Covell, Sean Connaughty, Jesse Draxler, Steve Edmundson, Barbara Evan, Greg Foley, Susan Frerichs, Gina Germ, Emily Goldberg, Pete Holseth, Betty Jager, Tyler Jensen, Angela Fay Johnson, Janine LaGreca, George Mahoney, Brandon Martz, Deborah Miller, Brian J. Nickila, Nate Petterson, Natasha Poppe, Robert Eichinger, Mark Rieger, Bradley Royce, Katie Sherman, Nichole Pappas Stanoch, Joel Starkey, Amber Sweeney, Shuji Ushi, Jill Van Sickle, Scott Wenner, Jeannie Williams, Michael Wong, Melissa Thompson, Rosa Kittsteiner, Isaac Everhart, Stirling Friendly, JM Culver.

Performance Artists:
The Default Project by C.L. Meisinger, Sheena Meddaugh and the Anda Flamenco Company, Ready At Will (RAW) Dance Collective

Musical Artists:
Eliza Blue, Sara Pray, Stook and Peter Lochner, Acoustic Death Orchestra, Ben Cook Feltz, Aviette, Rising Sides

Acknowledgments:
Anda Flamenco Company, Artspace Projects, Audubon Coffee, EMI, Rikshaw Films, Spinario Design

Friday, Feb 6th 6:00pm-12 midnight

Music: (approximate times)

6:00 Eliza Blue
7:00 Andes Flamenco Company
7:30 Sara Pray
8:00 Stook
8:30 Acoustic death Orchestra
9:00 Ben Cook Feltz,
10:00 Aviette
10:30 Rising Sides

Film: Outside viewing

Film Stills Project by Debora Miller (starts at dusk)


Film: Main viewing area

6:00 TBA
7:00 Love by Dave Ash
8:00 Venus Of Mars by Emily Goldberg
9:00 The Listening Project
10:00 TBA
11:00 TBA

Film: Secondary viewing

6-12 TBA

Dance:

6:00 Ready At Will- Through out the night
8:00 Ready At Will

Performance Artist:

The Default Project- Through out the night
Readings: Studio #122 Through out the night


Sat, Feb, 7th 12:00-8:00

Dance:

3:00 Andes Flamenco School- an overview of flamenco dancing and participation

Film: Main

Schedule TBA

Film: Secondary

Schedule TBA

Film: Outside viewing

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 4 Feb 2009 18:21:35 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.03.09
My improv team "Cut Below the Belt" is performing this evening at Six Ring Circus. We will be performing at the 9pm show, but there is a performance from 7:30-8:30 as well. If you come to the earlier show, the second show is FREE! (Admission to either show is only $1 anyway, so not a bank-breaking night out)

Hope to see you there!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 2 Mar 2009 18:32:44 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.29.09
This is a bit old, but I just found it. It's a link to the article Cabaret Scenes Magazine wrote about the Cabaret Conference at Yale, which I attended last summer. Though I am not quoted in the article (where was I when they were quoting people??), there are a few lovely pictures of me with my classmates and teachers. Check it out!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 29 Mar 2009 02:08:49 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.10.09
Today I had a shoot for a Blue Cross/Blue Shield commercial. It should be out fairly soon, so be sure to keep an eye out for it! I'll post here if I get a link to it online. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 30 Apr 2009 02:00:57 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 04.30.09
On Saturday night at 10:30pm, my improv team "Cut Below the Belt" will be performing at the Lowry Lab Theater in St. Paul with Treppenwitz. Tickets are only $5. Come check out the show!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 30 Apr 2009 01:51:52 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 05.06.09
In the past week, I have filmed a promo for Sex and the City for the CW Twin Cities and also a commercial for Taco Johns. The SATC promo should be airing shortly, so keep your eye out for it! As for the TJ spot, well, you might catch my nose and chin.
]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 6 May 2009 16:04:42 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 05.06.09
Up next, I will be doing a staged reading for the Midwest Translation Festival on May 18th at the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center in St. Paul. "The Desert Isle" is the winning play of the competition and the reading will be directed by Katie Willer. Check the website for more details and to order tickets!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 6 May 2009 16:07:24 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.30.09
Today I shot an infomercial for CyberDefense, a computer backup product. The agency/production company was Marketing Architects. ]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 30 Jun 2009 02:21:05 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 07.28.09
I will be playing an Amish girl in the musical Rumspringa, in which another Amish girl, played by Debi Kilde, falls in love with a robot. Musical numbers, the Amish and robots--What more do you need in a Fringe show?

Here's the official info:

Rebekah is an Amish girl visiting the city for the first time. Robot is a highly advanced robot programed to assist humans. When the two meet there is an instant spark, but can Rebekah leave her family, religion, and the only home she's ever known for the love of a Godless machine?

Venue Augsburg Studio
For ages 12+
Written by Jake Scott

Sat., Aug. 1 @ 7:00 p.m.
Sun., Aug. 2 @ 10:00 p.m.
Mon., Aug. 3 @ 7:00 p.m.
Thu., Aug. 6 @ 5:30 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 8 @ 10:00 p.m.



Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:28:05 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.21.09
Exciting news! In the past two weeks, I have been cast in two shows. In February I will be playing Louise in Steve Martin's The Underpants with Chameleon Theatre Circle at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center. After that, I will play Sally Cato/Ensemble in Mame with Minneapolis Musical Theatre. This will be my first time working with both companies, and I am very excited. Check back for more info as the shows get closer!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:20:38 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.21.09
This Sunday my improv team Cut Below the Belt will be performing at Improv-A-Go-Go at the Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis. I will also be guest-prov-ing with another team, El Nino.

Come check it out! Only $1!!!

What
Improv A Go Go - always just $1

When
Sun Aug 23 8pm – Sun Aug 23 10pm

Where:
Brave New Workshop - 2605 Hennepin Ave

Teams Performing:

Hobo Chili
Foterson
BOOMTOWN
Cut Below the Belt
SPLENDID THINGS

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:24:33 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.12.09
My show opens this week, October 14th!!!

It's a mysterious, music-driven show, site-specific, and company-created. A whole lot of hyphenated descriptors! Directed by U of M/Guthrie BFA graduate Jeremey Catterton of Lamb Lays With Lion (www.lamblayswithlion.com)

Tickets are $10-$20-$30, depending on the experience you choose.

The show is in an undisclosed location. You will be given directions once you buy your tickets. Tickets are available at the website www.peterwolfcrier.com

Due to the nature of the performance, tickets are VERY limited, so make your reservations now!



Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:20:07 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.12.09
See our video trailer by Northern Outpost--wait for the music to start, so you get the full effect.

I think the music is just stunning in this show. The music in the trailer specifically reminds me of the Arcade Fire song in the "Where the Wild Things Are" movie trailer, and that's a really high compliment coming from me! (I love Arcade Fire)

Come to the show and experience it all!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:22:13 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 10.12.09
Last Thursday, we held our press night with editors and writers from the likes of 3min Egg, City Pages, Vitamn, Cake in 15, & The Onion. The TC Daily Planet already had the following to say:

"...if you do happen to miss this show, and you someday run into someone who saw it, you probably shouldn't ask them about it. When you hear what they have to say, you'll be kicking yourself."

More press to come!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:19:48 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 12.09.09
I realize I forgot to announce this great news! I will be playing Eurydice in Sarah Ruhl's version of the Greek tragedy with Chameleon Theatre Circle, running January 22nd-February 7th at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.

And also, I will be doing a shoot next week for the MN Opera. I will be playing Mary Queen of Scots, not on their stage, but in their ad campaign. Hopefully I'll be allowed to use some shots from the photo shoot on my website. We'll see!]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 9 Dec 2009 16:58:37 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 12.28.09
I felt honored to be part of this production, even before it was honored with this mention. It was such a joy to create and so much fun to perform--almost a spiritual experience every night. I can only hope every experience will be as fulfilling.

Here is the article, reprinted:

Marilyn vos Savant, who has one of the world's highest IQ scores, writes an advice column for Parade magazine. A reader once asked her whether, with the price of movie admission rising, a movie ticket is worth its cost. I thought her response was right (so to speak) on the money: given that a major motion picture may cost many, many millions of dollars to produce, paying ten bucks to see it is a bargain. What you should be more concerned with, she continued, is whether the film is worth two hours of your time—time that you'll never get back. From Broadway spectaculars playing at the Orpheum to free productions of Shakespeare in the Park, that's also the common denominator among plays: watching one will take one to three hours of your time, time that you will never get back.

I saw a lot of plays this year—on average, about one a week. I reviewed or blogged about 49 different productions for the Daily Planet, and I saw at least one more that I didn't write about, bringing the total to 50...and that's not including the dance productions (four), operas (three), circuses (weirdly, two), and televised plays (one) I also saw. Some of them were a lot better than others—and not just in the sense that if you're going to see a play, you might as well see a good one rather than a lousy one. The best productions resonate far beyond the theater, changing the way you think about your life. The worst ones make you sad that so many talented people conspired to create something so manifestly unworthy of their time and yours.

I didn't see everything; in fact, the amount of good stuff you can miss around here even when you see a play a week is testament to the richness of the local theater scene. I missed a few acclaimed productions like Mixed Blood's Ruined, and I missed the entirety of the Fringe Festival excepting one burlesque show. Still, I think I caught the large majority of shows that would be serious contenders for any 2009 top-ten list, and I've had a great time doing so. Below are the ten shows that meant the most to me in 2009: the ten shows that made the greatest impact on me and that I would most like, if I could, to see again. Each title links to my full review.

10. Henry V, Guthrie Theater and the Acting Company
This was a very good year for Shakespeare on local stages generally, and at the Guthrie specifically. I loved Joe Dowling's lavish, fun production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona on the Wurtele Thrust Stage; Henry V, in the upstairs black-box named for Dowling, was even stronger. The brilliant set design made for a rich visual experience, but Matthew Amendt's performance as the eponymous monarch was what really made this production one for the ages. The play's plot, in which Henry launches a military invasion more or less out of pique, has contemporary resonance given that U.S. troops are still mired in Iraq, and Amendt's performance may have offered more insight into the psyche of George W. Bush than did Josh Brolin's performance in Oliver Stone's Bush biopic. Amendt was convincingly callow but also stirringly charismatic, and completely convinced that it doesn't matter what you do, as long as you do it for the right reasons. Henry has reason to doubt this by the end of the play; whether Bush doubts it, we can only imagine.

9. Mary Poppins, touring production presented by the Hennepin Theatre Trust
What I wrote above—that all productions are equal insofar as they all ask for a comparable investment of your time—is true, but it's also true that some productions additionally ask you for a hefty chunk of change. Touring Broadway shows aren't cheap, but in return they promise seasoned performers and wonders of stagecraft. Reliably, they deliver those things; it's depressing, though, how often they lean on them. Without memorable music and a thoughtful script, a Broadway show can feel distastefully cynical. Mary Poppins did it right: on the rock-solid foundation of the Disney film's timeless songs, the musical's creators built a precisely-engineered production with an almost overwhelming profusion of creative ideas. Leads Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee could not possibly have been any more confident, or have had any more justification for being so. Watching this show was like driving a luxury sports car; it leapt forward so effortlessly, you knew exactly why it was such a high-ticket item.

8. Bert and Ernie, Goodnight!, Children's Theatre Company
Bert and Ernie sketches are normally so short, you don't realize just how anarchic they are. This production brought all of the duo's most manic adventures to life, back to back, in front of your eyes. By the end of the show, walls were falling over, sheep were tap-dancing, a drum set was sliding in and out of view, everyone was singing, and everything was really loud. For five-year-olds, it was the biggest, craziest party of the year. Though the humor was broad, it was never cheap or crass, and Bradley Greenwald and Reed Sigmund ably evoked the pair of Muppets' touchingly steadfast mutual loyalty.

7. Othello, Ten Thousand Things
A truly astonishing performance by Luverne Seifert as Iago, experienced at TTT's trademark point-blank range, made this one of the most powerful productions of the year. Shakespeare productions typically charge themselves with making Shakespeare's Elizabethan language accessible to contemporary audiences—which is a worthy goal, but the Bard deserves more, and he got it from Seifert, whose performance, like quicksand, drew viewers further into Iago's dark and envy-choked mind with every word. That Seifert managed to do so while also making the role very funny—even funnier, possibly, than Shakespeare intended it to be—is all the more impressive.

6. Caroline, or Change, Guthrie Theater
By general consensus, the highlight of the Guthrie's Everything Kushner festival was not the playwright's ambitious new work or the presentation of rarely-seen shorts, but the revival of Kushner's masterpiece musical in a fluid and heartfelt production. As the title character, Greta Oglesby was sublime; she wasn't afraid to be unlikable, which made it all the more powerful when she opened up to reveal the roots of her pain. The audience at the Ivey Awards leapt to its feet to applaud Oglesby when she took the stage to accept an award for this performance—testament to the fact that the mark she made on viewers endured even months later.

5. Some Girl(s), Walking Shadow
Many viewers find playwright Neil LaBute's nihilistic worldview hard to stomach, and regard his plot twists as contrived. I agree on both counts, but what impressed me about this production was the way the cast found the emotional truth in LaBute's brutal scenario. All four of the actresses—especially, in one of the performances of the year, Anna Sundberg—who spar with Clarence Wethern's convincingly clueless character convey the attraction they feel towards the man and the hope they once had for their relationships with him, even as they lay bare the lasting pain he's caused them. The show captured that burning, bittersweet stew of excitement, anticipation, hope, fear, love, pain, risk, and reward that can be so terribly—really terribly—addicting.

4. Shipwrecked!, Jungle Theater
The Jungle is one of the most prominent companies in town, but regardless, this production had the feel of a hidden treasure, a gem that turned up unexpectedly. The play depicts a rag-tag band of performers putting on a shabby production of an unbelievable tale, hoping to charm you into filling their pockets, and they charmed me right over the moon. Michael Booth was tireless in the leading role, with support from an amazingly game band of costars including Emily Gunyou Halaas, Stephen Cartmell, and Edwin Strout. Theater is never easy, but the conspicuously hardworking Shipwrecked! cast made it look like a hell of a lot of fun.

3. This is Not for You, Jeremey Catterton
Scary movies freak me out a little bit, but haunted houses scare the crap out of me. Why? Because they're not safe. A poltergeist is not going to come out of your TV, but that chainsaw in the Soap Factory basement might just be real. Jeremey Catterton—who, as I acknowledged in my review of this show, is a friend of mine—feels strongly that theater should be real as well, that it shouldn't be in any way safe. This is Not for You would have been worthwhile if only as an exercise in breaking a lot of rules governing music concerts and theatrical performances—higher-paying ticket buyers didn't just get to sit closer, they were actually escorted off, in full view of everyone else, to see things that the others would not get to see at all—but as it happened, the show was also a moving, memorable experience that had as its soundtrack what turned out to be one of the best local albums of the year (Peter Wolf Crier's Inter-Be). The show felt like a stolen moment, an experience so intimate it was almost uncomfortable; maybe that's why Catterton opened each performance by standing in front of the curtain and somberly cautioning the audience, "This is not for you."

2. The Seafarer, Jungle Theater
This may have been the single most completely satisfying production I saw all year. Conor McPherson's script takes the character development at the heart of Dickens's Christmas Carol—a discouraged man, through supernatural intervention, discovering that he does have something to live for after all—and presents it in a fresh, funny setting. The Jungle production was just about flawless, with a cast who seemed born into their roles. I left the theater exhilarated.

1. Dalí-DADA, Bedlam Theatre
This production was really two distinct short plays spliced together. The first one—Come to DADA—was an entertaining but rather academic exercise illustrating the principles of the Dada movement. The second, though, was something much more. Dalí's Liquid Ladies, written by Savannah Reich, took a strong premise—a look behind the scenes at the surrealistic pavilion Salvador Dalí (played by an inspired Jon Mac Cole) built for the 1939 World's Fair—and pushed it into further realms, and then into realms further still. In its short running time, the show sketched the connections and tensions between fear and desire, between freedom and restraint, and between the real and the surreal. More than just demonstrating why Dalí's ideas were so powerful, the show was also—like Dalí himself—funny, erotic, and deeply strange.

Copyright:
©2009 Jay Gabler


Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:24:13 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 01.25.10
Ancient myth with a modern twist
Thursday, 21 January 2010

Chameleon gives Greek myth ‘Eurydice’ a 21st-century makeover


Chameleon Theatre Circle’s production of “Eurydice” is “a fresh look at a very ancient piece,” says director Barbe Marshall.

Though the essence of the story is the same – a man ventures to the underworld to retrieve his bride – audiences will notice some key differences between the Greek myth and this version by modern playwright Sarah Ruhl.

PHOTO: Unlike in the original Orpheus and Eurydice myth, underworld-bound Eurydice (played by Billie Jo Konze) takes center stage in Chameleon Theatre Circle’s production. The show runs Jan. 22-Feb. 7 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center. Photo by Rick Orndorf

For one, “no one will be in Greek clothing,” Marshall said with a laugh.

Chameleon’s version, which runs Jan. 22-Feb. 7 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, is told from the perspective of Eurydice (played by Billie Jo Konze), rather than her husband, Orpheus (Ryan Patrick Crimmins).

No longer just a passive captive of the lord of the underworld (Adam Scarpello), Ruhl’s Eurydice is a dynamic decision maker who must choose between a comforting past represented by her long-dead father (Robert Larsen), and a frightening above-ground future represented by her husband.

Audiences will delight at the offbeat, surreal twists in the show, which include a depiction of the underworld that is “quirky and fun,” Marshall said.

“Sarah Ruhl’s world is sort of like a dark ‘Alice in Wonderland’ world,” she said. “It’s not spooky – it’s odd. Maybe it’s more like Tim Burton."

Chameleon’s version also incorporates elements not available to the ancient Greeks: multimedia. Fuzzed-out digital video images projected on stage, along with lighting and sound displays designed to enhance the underworld vibe, are all part of the show. The emotional core of the original remains, though.

PHOTO: The emotional core of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth remains in Chameleon’s production of “Eurydice,” says director Barbe Marshall. “It’s a play about relationships, fathers and daughters are at the core of it, and it’s about love and an exploration of yearning,” she said. Above: Eurydice (Billie Jo Konze) and Orpheus (Ryan Crimmins) commiserate before their underworld travails commence. Photo by Rick Orndorf

“It’s a play about relationships, fathers and daughters are at the core of it, and it’s about love and an exploration of yearning,” said Marshall, who’s making her directorial debut with Burnsville-based Chameleon.

What Marshall hopes audiences take away from the 75-minute “emotional ride” that is “Eurydice”: “I hope they hold their loved ones a little closer.”

IN BRIEF: Chameleon Theatre Circle presents “Eurydice” Jan. 22-Feb. 7 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $16 and are available through Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or Ticketmaster.com, and at the Burnsville PAC’s box office.

Andrew Miller is at andrew.miller@ecm-inc.com.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:17:23 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 02.25.10
I am playing Louise in Steve Martin's hilarious comedy, The Underpants, which opens on February 26th at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.

Louise, wife to ruthless pragmatic government clerk Theo, accidentally managed to drop her drawers at the Kaiser’s parade, thus becoming the talk of a thrillingly scandalized town. It seems that every man in Germany, except Theo, now wants to bunk up with her.

The Underpants
by Steve Martin
Directed by Frank Blomgren
February 26-March 14, 2010
Fri/Sat at 7:30pm, Sun 2pm

Cast
Louise - Billie Jo Konze
Theo - David Laux
Gertrude - Sid Korpi
Versati - Ryan C. Scott
Cohen - Nick Menzhuber
Klinglehoff - Larry Kaplan
King - Jim Stone

Crew
Stage Manager - Tara Nielson
Technical Director - Andi Billig
Set Design - Alden Peterson
Props - Terri Ristow
Producer - Jim Vogel

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:56:09 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 03.10.10
The locally-made independent film "Paper Mache," in which I played a gun-toting cocktail waitress, has been accepted to the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:40:39 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 05.26.10
Here's some info for my latest show--I've been dancing my butt off, which hasn't happened in a while, and my character is truly NOT ME, so that's fun as well. Meaning my character is a complete and total b*#ch. Conniving, manipulative, and hella fun to play! Oh, and there's a man playing Mame, so that's something different too. It's a really fun show!

AND: If you order your tickets by May 31st using price code "PRESALE," you can get 20% off!


Mame
Life is a banquet!

June 11-27, 2010

"In an era of global uncertainty and angst, Jerry Herman's joyful classics seem like tonics for the soul." - Backstage West

Music and Lyrics - Jerry Herman
Book - Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee
Based on the novel, 'Auntie Mame' by Patrick Dennis

Leave it to MMT to put a surprising twist on this classic musical. MMT co-founder Kevin Hansen assumes the title role in Mame! Mame's wild, adventurous spirit is inside everyone who lives for the moment and believes that 'life is a banquet!' In the height of the roaring 20's, ten-year-old Patrick is sent to live with his larger-than-life Auntie Mame, where he's exposed to her wealthy friends and free-wheeling lifestyle. Both Mame and Patrick's lives are turned upside down as they struggle to form a family through wild, turbulent times and still live life to its fullest.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Wed, 26 May 2010 22:41:41 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 06.15.10
The reviews are in, and the show is hopping! Two more weekends left to check out Mame!

Star Tribune: "The creative team and hard-driving cast deliver a "Mame" that pays spirited homage to a show and to classic musical theater. Like "Hello, Dolly" and "Gypsy," "Mame" has great music, snazzy choreography and a story that affirms some national ethos...[The] surrounding cast draws their antic or credible characters vividly. Karen Wiese-Thompson is true to Vera's haughtiness and weariness. Wojtanowicz's older Patrick embodies earnest pleasantness. And Crystal Manik gives a risible performance as nanny Agnes Gooch. But it is Kevin Hansen, with vocal strength and spot-on comic timing, who carries the simple production on his strong shoulders. Vocally, he is at his best when he's singing with the full ensemble on such numbers as "Open a New Window" and "It's Today," both expressive of Mame's, and the show's, try-again philosophy."

MinnPost.com: "There’s nothing campy about Hansen’s performance...He’s playing Mame as a woman, through and through. And Hansen’s only the tip of the iceberg in an entertaining production of the musical...The balance of the cast gives strong performances, and while MMT doesn’t have the budget of other theaters, it makes up for that with an innovative, spartan set by Joshua Stevens and clever direction and choreography by Steven Meerdink."

Pioneer Press: "[Hansen’s Mame] is a well-sung, multi-faceted and sensitive performance and just the right size of larger-than-life-ness...Director/choreographer Steven Meerdink and vocal director Lori Maxwell give Jerry Herman's score a nice look and lustily enthusiastic voice... Karen Wiese-Thompson plays Mame's boozing, bosom buddy Vera Charles with enough vinegar to pickle both Minneapolis and St. Paul. The character isn't on stage all that much, but Wiese-Thompson infuses her with so much presence that when she's gone, you wonder what she's up to. Crystal Manik, who plays the straight-laced nanny Agnes Gooch, has the right incongruous blend of astigmatic squint, stoop-shouldered meekness and a huge musical-theater voice. Her transition from wallflower to fallen woman is effervescent and fun to watch."

[As a reminder, Friday's Star Tribune included a huge front page Variety feature story on MMT's production of Mame - CLICK HERE to read the article!]

Leave it to MMT to put a surprising twist on this classic musical as MMT co-founder Kevin Hansen assumes the title role in Mame! Mame's wild, adventurous spirit is inside everyone who lives for the moment and believes that 'life is a banquet!' In the height of the roaring 20's, ten-year-old Patrick is sent to live with his larger-than-life Auntie Mame, where he's exposed to her wealthy friends and free-wheeling lifestyle. Both Mame and Patrick's lives are turned upside down as they struggle to form a family through wild, turbulent times and still live life to its fullest.

Only 2 weekends remain (must close June 27) - don't miss your opportunity to catch this unique spin on one of Broadway's most beloved musicals!


"Mame"
June 11-27, 2010 (at the Illusion Theater - downtown Minneapolis)

Life is a banquet!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Tue, 15 Jun 2010 21:50:40 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 08.01.10
Forgive the uber-dramatic title of this post, but this news seemed to require it. I am very excited to be playing Maggie in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at Lyric Arts in Anoka. A year ago, I took on a scene from this play for The Actors Workout class at the Guthrie Theater, and it was the last scene I did for class before taking a long hiatus, so it seems fitting that this role has brought me full circle.

The show runs September 10th through the 26th at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage in Anoka, MN. Tickets are available through the website.

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Sun, 1 Aug 2010 23:16:54 -0500 http://billiejokonze.com 09.03.10
We got a great little preview article about Lyric Arts and the show. Check it out!

Launch Related Site]]> info@billiejokonze.com Fri, 3 Sep 2010 00:45:39 -0500