For Immediate Release:     Contact: Jorge Bermudez 224-521-5299

Up & Coming Theatre Company produces first Chicago-land community theatre production of “The Producers”

September 22, 2008 – Up & Coming Theatre Company (UAC) proudly presents the Chicago-land community theatre premier of “The Producers,” adapted by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan from Brooks’ 1968 film of the same name. UAC Theatre’s production is directed by Susan Hamel, with Music Direction by Thomas Stirling and Choreography by Jennifer Cupani.

“The Producers,” made famous by Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, tells the story of Max Bialystock as he conspires with the reluctant accountant Leo Bloom to produce a flop that will make the both of them rich. However, it all goes wrong when their show, “Springtime for Hitler” is a big success. Fresh off the recent national tour of “Gypsy”, the cast features Nicholas Hamel in the pivotal role of Max. Leo is played by local Schaumburg resident, Bob Spidale. Playing the cross-dressing role of Roger DeBris is John B. Boss who has played the Genie in “Aladdin” and Barnaby in “Babes in Toyland” in national tours. The cast also includes Anthony Berg who recently walked over 500 miles from Boston to Washington D.C. on the ABC Television's reality series "Fat March".

Up and Coming Theatre, a non-profit company, was established in 1992 and targets donating proceeds to select local charities. Past charities include: Sav A Pet, Palatine Senior Citizens Council, HIVCO, Season of Concern, and The Little City Foundation. Proceeds from “The Producers” will benefit the Community Education District 214 Foundation.

UAC ’s mission is to provide professional level performances with equal regard to music, voice, dancing, and acting. “We wanted to provide opportunities both on stage and with leadership positions to those who would normally not be offered those chances,” says Mr. Bermudez. “We have given opportunities to music directors, choreographers and performers when they were only 18 years old and just beginning their theater training. Later some of them became professional artists in their own right, and they credit us with giving them their first break.” UAC gives audiences a chance to see tomorrow’s stars today. Mr. Bermudez continues, “In this case, we have a director who has previously not worked in the area and this show marks their debut in the community. I think what is special about Up and Coming Theatre is the genuine passion that runs throughout the group. We’re committed to high quality performances.” UAC provides challenges to these artists through teamwork, cooperation, and constant support and encouragement.

Show dates for “The Producers” are October 10-12 and 16-19. Show times for Thursday – Saturday performances will be at 7:30 pm, and Sunday matinees will be at 2:30 pm. All performances will be at Forest View Theater, 2121 S Goebbert Rd in Arlington Heights. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 at the door. For reservations, please call 847-718-7702. For more information, visit www.uactheatre.com.