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February 5, 2010 Hey folks, If you are looking for a fun date on Friday night, stop by the Magnet Theater where I will be a guest performer with "The Made-Up Musical." The Made-Up Musical sings and dances its way onto the Magnet Theater stage with a one of a kind musical comedy every week! After an interview with an audience member, the cast weaves together a full one-act musical, complete with all the songs, trappings and melodrama you’d expect from our friends on Broadway. The Made-Up Musical Friday, February 5 at 10 PM The Magnet Theater 254 W. 29th Street (S.E. corner of 29th and 8th Ave) Tickets at 212-244-8824 - $7 I also have three shows during the upcoming week - and you can even join me on stage. The Magnet MUSICAL Mixer premieres Tuesday 2/11 at 10PM at the Magnet Theater. FREE The Magnet Mixer - Wednesday 2/12 at 11:30 PM (11 PM sign-up) at the Magnet Theater. FREE Once Upon a Time - Friday 2/14 at 7PM at the Magnet Theater. ONLY $5. The Magnet MUSICAL Mixer is the first of it's kind. A chance for any audience member to get up and perform regardless of whether they have ever performed before. Members of Musical House Teams "Miracle Baby" and "Choral Rage" will be on hand to perform side-by-side with brave newbies - along with musical improv performers of all skill and experience levels. Hosted by Vegas Lounge Legend (and lush) Trudy Carmichael and the amazing Frank Spitznagel on keys. Sign-ups start a half hour before the show. If you want to perform, be sure to arrive early to sign in and participate in the improv and vocal warmups. The Magnet Mixer (hosted by Jon Bander and T.J. Mannix) is your mid-week respite from reality. Anyone can perform - paired with experienced improvisors and members of Magnet House Teams. This loud and supportive crowd welcomes newcomers who have never performed improv before. Sign-ups start a half hour before the show. Improv warm-up at 11:15. Once Upon a Time - Proving that there really are two sides to every story, a squadron of 16 musical performers weave an audience member's suggestion into two instant musical fairy tales that tell what happened from the viewpoint of both the hero and villain. All the music and magic of a Disney flick (or the darkness of the Brothers Grimm). Be well, T.J. December 9, 2009 Feliz Holidays everyone, If you are looking for a fun date night in NYC, I might have a few suggestions ... "FACE" and "Once Upon a Time" - LIVE on stage. After our sold out performance at the New York Musical Improv Festival, "FACE" returns for our final show of the year. Friday, December 18th at 9:30 PM The PIT (People's Improv Theatre) 154 W. 29th Street btwn 6/7 Ave Only $10 with no drink minimum. As most of you know, I have been performing with "FACE" for three years now (www.faceimprov.com). "FACE" is FOUR musicians, FIVE actors, and ONE fully improvised, cutting edge performance. It's a high energy fusion of improvised jazz, theater, singing, and comedy improv. If you haven't experienced FACE see what people are saying about us ... "A wall of sight and sound coming at you... Amazing! They blew me away." -Justin Zell, Improvised New York Podcast "Enchanting" --L Magazine "...Comedic, dramatic, and jazz improv so surreally compelling that by the end, you leave wishing you could see what they come up with next." --Daniel Kelly, www.nytheatre.com "What differentiates this show from any other I've seen is the stunning collaboration between the actors and a live jazz trio onstage. The strength of FACE is their extraordinary ability to tune into each other, thereby keeping the audience enthralled by both the unique concept of the show and its execution." --Katherine Heller, www.newyorkcool.com "...the cast is clearly having fun, and the pace never lags for long...FACE is a breezy, amusing diversion." --Vanessa Anderson, Time Out New York "FACE is improv at its most beautiful." --Katherine Heller, www.newyorkcool.com "FACE Improv's performance at the Galapagos Art Space screamed of talent overload, with music, laughter and spontaneity pouring out the door of the tiny space...as the musicians embellished each minute of the show with their equally theatrical and relevant jazz." --Jennifer Pelly, The Fordham Observer THIS WEEK - "Once Upon a Time" moves to FRIDAY nights. BUT, you only get ONE chance to see us before 2010! So come and get your holiday groove on with Miracle Baby and Choral Rage! Proving that there really are two sides to every story, a squadron of 16 musical performers weave an audience member's suggestion into two instant musical fairy tales that tell what happened from the viewpoint of both the hero and villain. All the music and magic of a Disney flick (or the darkness of the Brothers Grimm). Miracle Baby is: Emily Bryan Angela DeManti Joe Dettmore Leanne Linsky Michael Lutton T.J. Mannix Desiree Nash Gerard Stokes Choral Rage is: Melanie Girton Henry Kaiser Justin Moran Emlyn Morinelli Ryan Nelson Robin Rothman Jon Roufaeal Jennifer Sanders $5 cover / $2 beers AND don't forget, every WEDNESDAY night you can drop in at the Magnet Theater at 11PM for the Magnet Mixer. Jon Bander and T.J. Mannix welcome improvisors and first timers to get up on stage and make some improv happen. We pair you with just the right performer or newbie - in a laid back, supportive environment. Oh, and it's FREE. Be well, T.J. www.tjmannix.com NEXT PERFORMANCES: Once Upon a Time on Friday, December 11th at 7 PM at the Magnet. FACE on Friday, December 18th, 9:30 at the PIT. The Magnet Mixer - every Wednesday night at 11:30 PM (11PM sign ups) Be well, T.J. October 30, 2009 Hey All, I am apparently suffering from an overdose of multi-tasking. I am once again managing to have FOUR different projects performing in the same week.
Friday night 10/30 at 11:30 PM at the Magnet Theater (254 W. 29th Street - SE corner of 8th Ave) $5 In 1978, the ABC network produced a Halloween Special so shocking, it could never be aired on television. For twenty-one years, it has been locked in a vault, consigned to be forgotten by history, until today. Now, finally unearthed, the record of this horrifying event is being presented for the first time, live on stage. On October 30th, join Paul Lynde and his guests, Alice Cooper, Sammy Davis, Jr., Farrah Fawcett, Michael Jackson, Barry Lank, Tom Laughlin, Donald Pleasance, Vincent Price, Burt Reynolds, Joan Rivers, Suzanne Sommers, TV's Binu, and Bruce Vilanch, as they embark on a wonderful extravaganza of comedy, music, and horror, that is sure to induce nightmares amongst the fair of heart. Due to its graphic nature, viewer discretion is advised. Please join a selection of talented improvisors from the Magnet Theater, as they perform in this written parody based on the original 1976 halloween special. Written and Directed by Adam Taylor and Emily Bryan. Lights and Sound: Austin Smith STARRING: Jon Bander, Noel Dinneen, Caroline Ficksman, Eden Gauteron, Betsy Hoffman, Roy Koshy, Barry Lank, David Levin, T.J. Mannix, Alex Marino, Binu Paulose, and Adam Taylor Musicals Tonight presents Cole Porter's "Silk Stockings" The McGinn/Cazale Theater (2162 Broadway). Tickets $20. Visit www.iseats.net or call (212) 579-4230. Cole Porter's Silk Stockings is based upon the Greta Garbo classic "Ninotchka." In the musical, "A famous Russian composer has been persuaded by a glib Hollywood agent to write the score for a movie to be shot in Paris starring an American aquatic film star. Three bumbling spies are sent to Paris to bring him back to Mother Russia. When they fall for Paris, the Master Spy Ninotchka is sent to Paris to sort out the spies, the composer and anyone else with Capitalist ideas. But Ninotchka has to fight her attraction to the agent, Paris and the West." The New York Musical Improv Festival Tickets are available at www.NYMIF.com I get to put on my producers hat to bring this first-ever festival of its kind to NYC audiences. Over 60 of the top comedians, singers, actors, and musicians from NYC and Chicago are coming together on one stage to perform fully-improvised musicals. NO composers. NO writers. NO choreographers. Based entirely on an audience suggestion, everything you see on the stage will be created and performed on-the-spot. Every song sung, every word spoken, every dance danced - for the first and last time, LIVE on stage. From traditional show-stoppers to the cutting edge of music and comedy. Featuring:
Tonight at 9:30 PM - Best New Artist performs at the PIT (154 W. 29th Street - btwn 6th and 7th Ave) It takes years to write your average Broadway musical, come see Best New Artist do it in 35 minutes. It will be a musical you love, even if you hate musicals. Best New Artist is Chris Grace, Stacey Higgins, T.J. Mannix, Sarah Nowak, Desiree Nash, Greg Portz, and Ashley Ward. Be well, T.J. October 1, 2009 Hey All, It has been a crazy couple of weeks juggling rehearsals and the opening of This Friday night there will be a special performance that I hope you can make it to. As most of you know, I have been performing with the group "FACE" since its inception three years ago ( www.faceimprov.com ). One of the joys of working with "FACE" is seeing the audience reaction to such a high energy fusion of vocal music, jazz, theater, and comedy improv. Starting Friday night, there will be cameras following the performers, the musicians, and the audience - getting footage for the "FACE" documentary. As you can imagine, it's kind of important that we have a full house. If you have been waiting for the perfect night to finally see this show - tomorrow would be an EXCELLENT option. This special "FACE" performance starts at 9:30 PM this Friday night (tomorrow) at the PIT (154 W. 29th Street 6/7 Aves - 2nd floor). As a gift, "FACE" is offering a free drink to the first 20 audience members who pick up their tickets on Friday! Whether you buy your tickets in advance, on-line, or at the door, just be sure to be one of the first 20 people there checking in to get your free drink coupon! Thank you in advance... www.faceimprov.com. If you haven't experienced FACE see what people are saying about us ... "Enchanting" --L Magazine "...Comedic, dramatic, and jazz improv so surreally compelling that by the end, you leave wishing you could see what they come up with next." --Daniel Kelly, www.nytheatre.com "What differentiates this show from any other I've seen is the stunning collaboration between the actors and a live jazz trio onstage. The strength of FACE is their extraordinary ability to tune into each other, thereby keeping the audience enthralled by both the unique concept of the show and its execution." --Katherine Heller, www.newyorkcool.com "...the cast is clearly having fun, and the pace never lags for long...FACE is a breezy, amusing diversion." --Vanessa Anderson, Time Out New York "FACE is improv at its most beautiful." --Katherine Heller, www.newyorkcool.com "FACE Improv's performance at the Galapagos Art Space screamed of talent overload, with music, laughter and spontaneity pouring out the door of the tiny space...as the musicians embellished each minute of the show with their equally theatrical and relevant jazz." --Jennifer Pelly, The Fordham Observer Be well, T.J. September 15, 2009 Hey All, T.J. on STAGE - I haven't seen much of my apartment these days. I am in rehearsals all day for the upcoming premiere of "HURRICANE: the Musical." I narrated a reading of this new show about a year ago, fell in love with the amazing music and story, and have been stalking it ever since. In August, I auditioned and was asked to step into one of the lead roles. I am SO proud of this show, and we are already getting massive "buzz". HURRICANE premieres in the NY Musical Theatre Festival on September 28th here in Manhattan. If you want to get tickets, HURRY! The opening and closing nights are already sold out and several others are close to full. T.J. on TV - Looks like I will be returning to Llanview Hospital TODAY, Tuesday afternoon. My recurring character on One Life To Live is back for another hospital brawl. It should air at 2PM on ABC and again that night on the cable channel SoapNet. ALSO - keep an eye out for me on As the World Turns on Tuesday, September 29th in a really fun comedic role. T.J. on PRODUCING - Huh? T.J. is doing what? You will have to wait for the Press Release, but keep the following dates open - November 6th and 7th, 2009. New York City is about to see something it's never seen before... And be sure to check out my upcoming performance schedule - it's HUGE! Be well, T.J. August 6, 2009 Hey All, I'm back in NYC after my six week run of Shakespeare's ... "High School Musical." I still haven't seen the movie, but the stage musical really grew on me. I had a great time. I'm hitting the ground running with FOUR new shows in August. There is a ton of information here, but I figured once is better than fifteen emails in your inbox. I have mentioned before how much I'm enjoying musical improv - now you can see for yourself with "FACE," "Once Upon a Time," and "Best New Artist." The brand new improvised Fairy-Tale musical, "Once Upon a Time," now has a regular time slot at the Magnet Theater. We will be appearing Tuesday night at 10 (check my schedule for dates). "Once Upon A Time" is an innovative new musical improv form. We interview an audience member and their story inspires a fully improvised fairy tale musical. THEN - we take that story and turn it on its head in a second improvised musical seen from the villains point of view (a la "Wicked"). ($5.00 cover / $2.00 PBRs) "Once Upon A Time" stars: Emily Bryan, Angela DeManti, Joe Dettmore, Leanne Linsky, Michael Lutton, T.J. Mannix, Desiree Nash, Gerard Stokes. "Happily Ever After" stars: Melanie Girton, Henry Kaiser, Justin Moran, Emlyn Morinelli, Ryan Nelson, Robyn Rothman, Jon Roufael, Jennifer Sanders. This Friday, August 7th at 8 PM starts the "Best New Artist" at the People's Improv Theatre (the P.I.T.). Where it takes years to write your average Broadway musical, "Best New Artist" does it in 35 minutes. It will be a musical you love, even if you hate musicals. "Best New Artist" is Chris Grace, Stacey Higgins, T.J. Mannix, Sarah Nowak, Desiree Nash, Greg Portz, and Ashley Ward. The PIT is at 154 W. 29th Street between 6th and 7th Avenue. Tickets are $10. Reservations 212-563-7488. With a bunch of other stuff in between (have I mentioned checking out the schedule ???), and Friday, August 22nd at 8p, FACE returns to perform at the P.I.T. After their run of shows at the FringeNYC, FACE continues to bring to art of improvisation to the forefront of theater in New York City. FACE features a jazz quartet that creates, from a single audience suggestion, an original score on the spot while five actors weave a 45-minute, fully improvised show of music, motion, comedy, and dramatic theater. See faceimprov.com for more information about the group and their performances. "(FACE is)...Comedic, dramatic, and jazz improv so surrealistically compelling that by the end, you leave wishing you could see what they come up with next." --Daniel Kelly, www.nytheatre.com Oh, and I cannot forget - Jon Bander and I are now hosting "The Magnet Mixer." It's YOUR chance to perform, even if you have never been on stage before. We pair audience members with experienced performers - and together you improvise a scene in front of a very supportive, if slightly inebriated, audience. This show is always FREE. Again, check the schedule for dates/times. Be well, T.J. April 22, 2009 Hey all, Okay, stop hounding me for not telling you about my upcoming gigs. I give in. There are two biggies coming up in the next few weeks. Coming next Sunday, May 3rd at 8 PM - "NOT YOUR EX" Guaranteed to distract you (temporarily at least) from the songless days, sleepless nights, and restraining orders of your former love. Come join "NOT YOUR EX" as they debut an exciting new musical improv form. Explosively unpredictable. Always honest. Overly passionate. And music to your ears (literally). Everything your ex wasn't. Featuring Cliff Campbell, Melanie Girton, Henry Kaiser, T.J. Mannix, Emlyn Morinelli & Jen Sanders. With the fabulous Ari Scott on keys. Directed by Stuart Ranson of "Baby Wants Candy" fame. Reservations are a MUST. Sunday, May 3rd at 8 PM at the Magnet Theater. Call 212-244-8824 to reserve tix for Test Drive - tell them you are coming to see "NOT YOUR EX." PLUS - the long awaited return of FACE ... in our first show of 2009. FACE teams up with improv gods Centralia Saturday, May 9th @7:30pm FACE at the Castilllo Theater W. 42nd btwn 10th Ave and 11th Ave $15 ($10 with student I.D.) In the meantime, check out what people have to say about FACE ... "Enchanting" --L Magazine "...Comedic, dramatic, and jazz improv so surreally compelling that by the end, you leave wishing you could see what they come up with next." --Daniel Kelly, www.nytheatre.com "What differentiates this show from any other I've seen is the stunning collaboration between the actors and a live jazz trio onstage. The strength of FACE is their extraordinary ability to tune into each other, thereby keeping the audience enthralled by both the unique concept of the show and its execution." --Katherine Heller, www.newyorkcool.com "...the cast is clearly having fun, and the pace never lags for long...FACE is a breezy, amusing diversion." --Vanessa Anderson, Time Out New York "FACE is improv at its most beautiful." --Katherine Heller, www.newyorkcool.com "FACE Improv's performance at the Galapagos Art Space screamed of talent overload, with music, laughter and spontaneity pouring out the door of the tiny space...as the musicians embellished each minute of the show with their equally theatrical and relevant jazz." --Jennifer Pelly, The Fordham Observer I hope to see you there ... or there. T.J. Mannix www.tjmannix.com (My ALL NEW website) March 30, 2009 Hey all, I have been lucky to be a part of the development of an exciting new musical for the past two years. "The Butcher of Plainfield" will be presented publicly for the first time this week at the Actor's Studio in Manhattan.  I love the cast and the way the composer and playwright have tackled this dark story of the life of Ed Gein. Gein was the real-life serial killer who inspired the characters of Norman Bates in "Psycho" and Buffalo Bill in "The Silence of the Lambs."We are pleased to announce the first public readings of "The Butcher of Plainfield", a new musical by Steven Charles Nicholas and Elliot A.B. Sneider. We will be presenting two Equity staged readings of the show. The readings will take place Tuesday, March 31st, 2009 at 8:30 PM, and Wednesday, April first, 2009, at 7:00 PM. Please see the website for details, and make reservations if you can join us. You can visit our website at edgeinmusical.com We look forward to seeing you at the show! The cast and crew of "The Butcher of Plainfield" Be well, T.J. www.tjmannix.com August 12, 2008 Hey Y'all, Wow! We had an amazing debut with FACE at the FringeNYC! We sold out our Opening Night performance and filled that huge space with wonderful friends and strangers.  Thank you to everyone that was there to experience FACE (Every Good Boy Does Fine). Thanks for sticking around at the bar after to say hello! And thanks to friends from far away who bought tickets and donated them so local students could experience the show. So why has T.J. suddenly gone overboard - sending so many messages in such a short time? Risking the wrath of your spam filter? Simple - I have never been involved in developing a project like FACE before. I have such faith in this show and its cast, I have a great time performing in it, and we have consistently delivered a smart, funny show. For those of you who couldn't make it to opening night, here's your next chance! THIS WEDNESDAY, 13th @ 5:15 PM CSV Cultural Center Flamboyan Theater 107 Suffolk St. (btwn Delancey and Rivington) Tickets are available through these options: On-line click here (credit cards only) By phone: 1-866-468-7619 (credit cards only) If it's 24 hours before the show, you cannot purchase via phone or internet so... Buy at the door 15 minutes before the show (Cash only) Please be sure to arrive at the shows early to get a seat! Some friends were turned away at the door because they came just a few minutes late. Bummer!!! Only four shows left.... WEDNESDAY, 13th @ 5:15 WEDNESDAY, 20th @ 10:00 FRIDAY, 22nd @ 2:15 SUNDAY, 24th @12:00 Be well, T.J. www.tjmannix.com July 30, 2008 Hey all, Just a quick update about my Opening Night for FACE (Every Good Boy Does Fine) at the NYC International Fringe Festival. I just found out that there is a funky little bar and lounge inside the theatre complex that serves wine, beer, and champagne. You can meet before the show for a drink and they actually encourage the audience to bring their drinks into the theatre with them. After opening night on Friday, August 8th (7PM) - we will be sticking around for drinks at the bar - having an informal party with the cast, crew, and audience. If you can't make opening night, I'm sure we will be there having a drink after just about every show. Can't wait to see you all there. T.J. www.tjmannix.com July 23, 2008 Hey All, I have always told friends that "announcing" a performance and "actually inviting you" are two very different things. This one falls under a new category - "I'm incredibly proud of this show and I am even daring to promise you a good time." I have invested over a year of my life building this show - working side by side with such talented musicians and performers - and I would be honored to have you there to enjoy it with us as FACE plays the FRINGE. After a year of developing the show at rock venues and theatres around NYC, FACE has been invited to perform in the 2008 NYC International Fringe Festival! It's a huge honor and a great chance to introduce ourselves to NYC's adventurous theatre and music fans. "FACE: Every Good Boy Does Fine" will have it's Opening Night on Friday, August 8th at 7 PM. We will be performing at the CSV Cultural Center (107 Suffolk Street) in Manhattan. And I would love to have you there. Opening night attendance pretty much determines your fate at the NYC FRINGE. With over 200 shows from around the world - the shows that sell out their first show get the buzz, the media attention, and the ticket sales. For those of you who have always wanted to catch FACE in action and support our actors and musicians - here's your chance... Be well, T.J. www.tjmannix.com June 27, 2008 (second update - it's been a busy day!) Hey from NYC Y'all, Earlier this year, I shot five commercials in three days. Here are the results. Videos | Surviving Meetings It was fun and exhausting. Hope you like them. T.J. www.tjmannix.com June 27, 2008 Hey Everyone! (beware - many exclamation points to follow!) It's official! After performing across the city for the past year, FACE has been accepted into the NYC International Fringe Festival!! The Fringe-NYC set attendance records last year. To give you an idea of the magnitude of the festival - last August, over 75,000 people came to downtown Manhattan to see the most cutting edge theater in the world. I am so proud that FACE's unique fusion of live music, unscripted theatre, movement, and comedy is being recognized by the festival - and will be seen by a huge audience. I truly hope that you will be able to see one of our Fringe shows in August! All my Best, T.J. *If you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution to help us out for the FringeNYC, please click here! A special thanks to our current donors James and Alice Murdoch, Ryon Acey, Mary Ellen Acey, Susan Raabe, Vincent Dunleavy, Judi and Bob Manchester, Claiborne Elder Please visit our new web-site designed by our drummer, Brady Miller at www.faceimprov.com April 18, 2008 AUDITIONING FOR COMMERCIALS, TV & FILM with T.J. Mannix Put your improv skills to work in the entertainment industry and learn the art of auditioning. In other words, learn how to get paid to do what you love. This class will cover the ABC’s of auditioning. Topics to be covered include: working with sides, finding the right monologue, preparation, documenting your audition experiences for networking and growth, the business of the business: headshots, resumes, agents, casting directors, theatre, unions (Equity, SAG, AFTRA), showcases, working for free, websites and networking. Let's de-mystify what happens “in the room” – with a special emphasis on commercials, television and film auditions. Students will participate in mock auditions for the first several weeks and have the opportunity to audition for industry professionals in class. Pre-requisite: Level 2 or equivalent Limit: 12 Students Availability: OPEN Instructor: T.J. Mannix Dates: May 19 - July 7 (No classes Memorial Weekend & June 9th) Day: Monday Time: 7 - 10 pm Price: $275 Location: Magnet Theater, 254 W. 29th Street, between 7th & 8th Aves - 3rd floor classroom click here to register for the class April 12, 2008 Y'all, So here goes. Our final FACE show at Galapagos is this Wednesday night at 8PM. After a year of performances across New York City, we are taking a much needed rest. I'm so proud to be attached to this show. It's so rare to have the chance to invite people to a show that you know will be smart and consistently entertaining. FACE has taken some real chances - bringing together, instrumental and vocal music, theatre, spoken word, and movement - fusing them into a brand new form every performance. FACE has been embraced by the New York City music, acting, comedy, and dance communities. Come enjoy a beautiful performing space, a bar with no drink minimum, and a truly original, exciting ensemble of artists. T.J. www.tjmannix.com March 18, 2008 Hey all, It's hard to believe, but it was one year ago that FACE first came together for an improvised jazz and comedy jam in a Washington Heights apartment. FAST FORWARD to March 2008, and we are in the middle of an exciting five month run at Galapagos Art Space. This Wednesday night at 8 PM, FACE hits a milestone - ONE YEAR performing together for audiences across NYC! We have been creating fully improvised music, theatre, comedy, and movement in theatres, comedy clubs, and rock venues. Thanks to all of you who have come out and supported us over the past year. To those of you who have wanted to join us but couldn't so far - tomorrow will be a great night to experience FACE for the first time. Doors open at 7:30 for an 8 PM show - featuring our special guests Respect Sextet - a killer jazz group that makes me smile.
Galapagos Art Space Double Bill #1 FACE - 8 pm FACE features four musicians and six actors in a truly unique theatrical show. Each performance is fully improvised from a single audience suggestion. The band creates a score on the spot while the actors improvise scenes of music, motion, and comedy. #2 RESPECT SEXTET A funky, smart, humorous cadre of nastily talented jazz musicians playing original compositions - with a whole lotta irony. http://www.myspace.com/respectsextet : listen to "In the shadow of my Bier" and get blown away. $8 both bands, no minimum. Galapagos is at 70 N. 6th St, between Wythe and Kent. Take the L train to Bedford Station. Walk West on Bedford, take a right on N. 6th St. http://myspace.com/faceimprov • http://www.galapagosartspace.com I hope to see you there. T.J. February 7, 2008 Hey all, They are the kind of reviews you'd kill for. The word is out about FACE and the unique show we are putting on, and reviewers are enjoying what they see.
(Scroll down for the full review) FACE returns to the Galapagos stage this Wednesday night, February 13th, at 7:30 PM. What better way to spend Valentine's Eve - then to grab a drink, hang with cool friends, and ogle your favorite performers. Wow - a 7:30 PM show? That means I can go out on a weeknight! That means I can have enough courage to leave Manhattan for a few hours! That means I don't have to be afraid to go ONE SUBWAY STOP into Brooklyn for some quality entertainment! FACE at Galapagos Art Space Wednesday, February 13th at 7:30 PM NO DRINK MINIMUM - Full Bar Tickets are $8 Galapagos is located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn - JUST ONE SUBWAY STOP AWAY FROM MANHATTAN Take the L train to Bedford Station, Head WEST on Bedford. Take a Right on N. 6th St. Galapagos is on the left-hand side at 70 N. 6th St. (between Wythe and Kent) Directions Link Wait, T.J. What's FACE again? FACE features four musicians (upright bass, keyboard, drums, sax) and six actors in a truly unique theatrical show. The band gets a suggestion from the audience and creates an original musical score on the spot. The music inspires the actors to create a 45 minute, fully improvised theatrical show of Music, Comedy, Theatre, and plenty of daring. Hope to see you there, tj www.tjmannix.com (check out my updated website) Now, about that review.... Comedy Troupe Nails Jokes, Jazz Solos Jennifer Pelly Issue date: 1/30/08 Section: Arts & Culture Take six comedic actors, one standup bass player, a jazz drummer, a keyboardist and a guy on sax-throw them into a NYC art space, label them "FACE," and what'll you get? Well, I couldn't tell you. FACE Improv is a 12-piece troupe that has been performing around NYC for the past eight months-their long-form improvised theatre is combined with free-form jazz for a show unprecedented by even the most avant-garde acts. The group's name is derived from both the mnemonic device used to identify the musical notes in the treble staff (paying homage to the group's musicians) and the primary tool for human expression, the face (paying homage to the group's actors). FACE Improv's Jan. 18 performance at Galapagos Art Space in Williamsburg screamed of talent overload, with music, laughter and spontaneity pouring out the door of the tiny space. Their jokes ebbed and flowed sporadically, as the musicians embellished each minute of the show with their equally theatrical and relevant jazz. The actors often collectively referred back to jokes made earlier in the show, which was impressive. To even the most seasoned show-goer, FACE will throw the idea of improvisation into a new light. "People should want to come out and see the show because it's literally a play, a musical and a live jazz/rock show all at the same time!" said FACE actor Henry Kaiser. The jazz accentuates the performance, with a quality of the musicianship that is definitely above average. "I think what really sets FACE apart from other improv shows is its devotion to letting the band do its thing," Kaiser added. "In other words, we let the band lead most of the improv and go from there." Upright Citizens Brigade and other improv shows might now seem slightly bare in comparison, and I'm not sure that I would exactly trade FACE for a night at the Blue Note. It's the combination of both that makes the show so unique, and for five bucks it's pretty much just a sweet deal all around. The idea for FACE came to founder Duncan Murdoch while he was performing with the Magnet Theatre, where actors improvised to popular songs during shows. "The combination of improv and movement was very exciting for both the performers and the audience," Murdoch said. "Then I thought, 'how would things go if the music was a live performance as well, with a band?'" After proposing the idea to a group of music school graduates who had been performing regularly throughout NYC, the artists assembled under Murdoch's original director, and the group began to explore their new medium. "It was very raw, packed with potential energy," Murdoch said. Duncan explained that, at rehearsals, the group works predominantly on group mind and thinking exercises, allowing for the deeply ingrained sense of trust in FACE's spontaneous expression. The members are inspired by each other and the energies of the audience and the space. I could describe the man picking invisible apples before the audience, the law school songs and artist gags, the suspender-clad actors intermittently transforming their bodies into ocean waves, the drunken wedding speeches, the appearance of a Satanic soul and his bug-eyed father who flees to Broadway, but my details unfortunately won't do you much good. Although you won't see the exact performance that I witnessed last weekend, because nothing that FACE Improv puts together on the stage is ever pre-planned or repeated, you can count on an equally ridiculous and intimate show. www.tjmannix.com Interested in getting a taste of performing. Sign up for a FREE Comedy Improv class at the Magnet Theater with the Godfather of long-form improv, Armando Diaz. NEW!!! FREE INTRO TO IMPROV with Armando Diaz and Bob Acevedo Never taken an improv class before? Well here is your chance to try it out for free. Magnet offers you the chance to try before you buy with Armando Diaz and Bob Acevedo. No experience required. Open to all. Limit 16 students. Sunday February 17th - 10:00 - 11:30AM - $FREE 15 January 2008 This Friday Night at Galapagos Jazz/Rock/Theatre/Comedy Hey All, Thanks so much to all of the FACE fans who packed the house at Galapagos in December. We had a great crowd, a great show, and made a great impression on the owners. Because we all had such a great time, we've been invited back to play monthly and this Friday we're gonna kick it off with an all new show. FACE will be performing at 7:30 PM this Friday night at Galapagos Art Space. We're excited to perform on the "Back Stage" this time. It's a larger stage, with a private bar inside the theatre. Galapagos is a beautiful performing space with a hell of an entrance (picture yourself walking over a bottomless pit of water to get inside). Stick around after FACE performs, and grab a drink with us. We've started sharing the wealth - and are psyched to introduce a guest artist every week. Friday you will meet and listen to three extremely talented musicians that'll play some "complex, sophisticated music that KICKS ASS!" Kyle Sanna- guitar/songs Kinan Azmeh - clarinet John Hadfield - drums FACE at Galapagos Art Space This Friday, January 18th at 7:30 PM Doors open at 7 PM Show is performed in the Back Stage NO DRINK MINIMUM - Full Bar Tickets are ONLY $5 (How is this possible? Fire our attorneys!) Galapagos is located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn JUST ONE SUBWAY STOP AWAY FROM MANHATTAN Take the L train to Bedford Station Head WEST on Bedford. Take a Right on N. 6th St. Galapagos is on the left-hand side at 70 N. 6th St. (between Wythe and Kent) Directions Wait, T.J. What's FACE again? FACE features four musicians (upright bass, keyboard, drums, sax) and six actors in a truly unique theatrical show. The band gets a suggestion from the audience and creates an original musical score on the spot. The music inspires the actors to create a 45 minute, fully improvised theatrical show of Music, Comedy, Theatre, and plenty of daring. Thanks for being there with us at the start of something big! T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix 19 December 2007 For those of you who often ask me what I do with my time... A week in the life of a New York Actor. Tuesday, December 11 - 4:30 PM Jewtopia audition for a regional theatre in Florida. How was I called in to read for the role of a "nebbishy, anxiety-ridden twenty-something Jew?" I arrive at the audition with my sides prepared, instead, they hand me a different four page scene and give me two minutes to prepare it. Nice job. The director asks skeptically - "Are you Jewish?" Um, no. Why don't you two switch right now - T.J. read the role of the Catholic guy. So much for my preparation. I do a cold reading of a brand new character - and get sent outside with another two page monologue to prepare. So much for the preparation I put into that other character. I'm pretty sure the 20 year old male model outside might be what they are looking for. Wednesday, December 12 - 10:30 AM - Audition for the role of Captain Von Trapp in the tour of The Sound of Music. How bizarre to be preparing such an iconic role - it's like playing your own father. Prepared the music to Eidelweiss and two scenes - where von Trapp sends Maria back to the Abbey for dressing the kids in curtains - and where she returns and he admits that he loves her. I also sing "So In Love" from Kiss Me Kate. They seem to be thrilled with my performance - only time will tell. Wednesday, December 12 - 1 PM - Run to meet my friend Brad on 57th Street at the Directors Guild of America Theatre for an early preview of the film "There Will Be Blood." Yawn. There will be unearned award nominations... Wednesday, December 12 - 8 PM ABOUT FACE - FACE performs in Williamsburg, Brooklyn at the amazing space Galapagos. My favorite performing gig these days. We have a four piece Jazz Ensemble (upright bass, keys, sax, drums), six actors, and a fully improvised one hour show that fuses music, comedy, theatre, and daring. They are already asking us back for a regular Friday night time slot. Thursday, December 13 - 3 PM Finally getting my 2006 taxes done. One of the best benefits of being a member of Actor's Equity Association (stage actors union) is free tax preparation at VITA. They are great people who volunteer to help actors get the refunds they deserve - and desperately need. Thursday, December 13 - 8 PM Hosting the semi-finals of the MegaWar Comedy Competition at the Magnet Theater. Friday, December 14 - 7 PM Two years after The Last Christmas Party. My friends Jennie, Becky, Samantha and Debbie have hosted a Christmas Party at the palatial Upper West Side apartment for the past 40 years. Two years ago, they shot a documentary of the party called The Last Christmas Party. Everyone entering signed a release form and we spent the night sneaking into a confessional to answer holiday questions and see who could get to the end of Twas the Night Before Christmas. Saturday, December 15 - 12 noon I was cast in a reading of a new play Last Call on Bourbon Street. Had a great time playing a New Orleans bar owner after Hurricane Katrina - waiting for an insurance adjuster to approve his claim. What happens when the city demands that everything in the historic district be rebuilt with the same classic materials - but the insurance companies only want to spring for roof shingles and particle board? After only a half hour of rehearsal, we perform. What a talented group of actors. We kept finding these great moments that weren't in the script. Saturday, December 15 - 7 PM Christmas Party at Caymichael Patten Studios. My acting coach for six years throws her annual party - filled with incredibly talented, award winning actors and directors who study and teach by her side. She's a great lady and I owe so much to what I've learned from her over the years. She has created an army of like-minded creative professionals who continue to work together long after leaving her classes. Saturday, December 15 - 10:30 PM Hosting the finals of the MegaWar Improv Comedy Competition. The top two teams at the Magnet Theater go head to head in long-from improv. The audience voted, and Skosh beat Junior Varsity for bragging rights and the best performing time slots in 2008. Sunday, December 16 - DAY OF REST. Woke up at 2 PM and deserved it. Sunday, December 16 - 7 PM Traveled to other end of Manhattan (215th Street) for a Christmas dinner with my friend Louis and newlyweds Alison and Quinn. Comfort food and great friends - what more could you ask for? Too bad I had to get home and get some sleep before.... Monday, December 17 - 4:30 AM That was my call time for shooting a Bud Light commercial at Giants Stadium - to be aired during the Super Bowl. I have steered clear of doing any extra work, but I was offered the chance to make a couple hundred bucks that I could earmark for Christmas gifts for my nieces and nephews. Sheer HELL. Giants Stadium is in the middle of the Meadowlands in NJ - TRANSLATION - "when the wind comes sweeping down the plains..." 19 degrees with FREEZING winds - outdoor shoot - substandard conditions for human survival. Why the hell did I agree to do this? Okay, focus on Brooke, Micaela, Connor, Carter, and Corey. Brrrr. I suddenly realize what it is like to be non-union talent. I work as a union actor in all of my other theatrical, TV and film work. I have been treated like gold in all twelve of the non-union commercial I have shot. (I just haven't forked over the $3,000 to join SAG yet.) This is a different story - it's a SAG shoot, so the non-SAG actors have no rights. They are treated like non-human entities - 13 HOURS - no regular breaks - no place to warm up - only once was coffee or water brought to us outside - no craft service truck - no respect. While I completely understand that there has to be a pecking order when union and non-union talent mix - this was just disrespectful. (WARNING - ANGRY RANT AHEAD) Why is it that members of the Screen Actors Guild who make their living as extras are the nastiest, most egotistical people I have ever worked with. If you get a paycheck for playing a glorified prop - for being SCENERY - what on earth gives you the right to treat others with such disrespect? I hate to lump a group of people together like that, many of them were charming and respectful, but the vast majority were like petulant, spoiled children. They either snapped at you, belittled you, and ignored you once they found out you were non-union. The SAG extras were like animals at the bottom of a food chain, so thrilled to have finally someone lower than them that they gleefully take out all of their life's failures on the newbies. I have always gone out of my way to treat everyone well in rehearsals and on set - "Do unto others...." If Karma is a bitch ... these people have some serious misery in their futures. Wow - can't believe I had to spend 13 hours with people spewing such hate and bitterness into the world. If I EVER treat anyone like that on or off a set - shoot me. Monday, December 17 - 10 PM The Magnet Theater's 3rd Annual Christmas Party. These people make me so damn happy. Talented performers and up-and-comers with great attitudes. After opening the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater and the People's Improv Theater a block away, Armando Diaz got it right and created a fantastic home for comedy improv. An actor-friendly, supportive environment that is such fertile ground for creativity. It's like the most talented, good hearted people of the city all found each other. Instead of back stabbing and alienating - the best performers actually encourage the new ones. By far, the best place in the city to see cutting edge, smart comedy. Tuesday, December 18 - 7 PM Up to 72nd Street for my first rehearsal of the musical, The Butcher of Plainfield. This new musical is being put together my members of The Actor's Studio in Manhattan. It tells the life story of serial killer Ed Gein - the inspiration for the murderer in Silence of the Lambs. I was recommended for the role by two friends I first performed with nine years ago. Whew. No complaints here (except for the evil Bud Light villians). That's the kind of schedule you need to keep if you want to pay the rent in NYC. T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix 12 December 2007 To my devastatingly attractive friends... Tonight (Wednesday the 12th) at 8 PM - I will performing - singing, acting, and making funny - out in Billyburg. My group FACE Improv has a special audition/performance at Galapagos Art Space. The powers-that-be at Galapagos are fans of FACE, but need to see that we can draw a crowd. If this night goes well with lots of people having a good 'ol time, we'll get a regular prime-time gig there!!! For the newbies, FACE is a fully improvised show. Four amazing jazz musicians get a suggestion from the audience and create a musical score on the spot. Six actors join them and create a 45 minute, fully improvised theatrical show. FACE is a FUSION of Jazz, Comedy, Theatre, and Daring. We have had successful runs at the Magnet Theater and the P.I.T., along with numerous appearances at charity events around town. So... if you have been meaning to come out to see my show, this is definitely the one to see! (For the freaked-out Manhattanites - Galapagos is in Williamsburg - that translates to ONE STOP- 5 minutes away from Manhattan on the L line - and a walk of two short blocks.) So come out and see FACE - along with our guests - the band Greg Chudzik & the Trophy Wives . If you come to FACE tonight, I will kiss you on the lips (or NOT, whichever is a bigger motivator). GALAPAGOS ART SPACE - Williamsburg, Brooklyn - 5 minutes from Manhattan - click for directions 70 North 6th Street, between Kent and Wythe Wednesday, the 12th, Doors open at 7:30 PM - Tickets are only $5. Galapagos has a full bar inside the performing space. FACE is: Krista Amigone • Henry Kaiser • Roy Koshy • T.J. Mannix • Patrick McCaffrey • Duncan Murdoch • Ben Gallina- Bass • Brady Miller- Drums • Josh Rutner- Sax • Red Weirenga- Keyboards • Directed by Deanna Fleysher See you there! NEWSFLASH Now you can also support FACE and get a tax write-off. Donate here , we're a non-profit! T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
28 November 2007 Hey all, I hope you all had a nice relaxing Thanksgiving. I am finally out of my tryptophan and wine induced coma ... time to get back to work. My next project is a musical I first worked on at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center this summer. "Becoming Tennessee" is about the life of Tennessee Williams in New Orleans. The cast is stellar - featuring Gretha Boston (Tony Award Winner for Showboat), Brian Charles Rooney (Threepenny Opera), Jerry Dixon (Once on This Island; Tick, Tick, Boom), and ME ("that guy you know"). We are in rehearsals right now in Manhattan, and look forward to our two performances this weekend - December 1st at 2 PM and December 2nd at 5 PM. "Becoming Tennessee" is part of a concert series kicking off the $10 million renovation of the Emelin Theatre. The Emelin is being led by its new artistic director, Michael Bush from Manhattan Theater Club. We are also lucky to have Michael directing our show. The Emelin is located in Mamaroneck, New York (for directions click here ) north of NYC. Be well, T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
12 November 2007 Finally, that dream of yours you were afraid to tell anyone about ... is coming true. For one night ONLY - T.J. Mannix is hosting the Magnet Mixer!! This Thursday night at 11PM at the Magnet Theater (254 W. 29th Street - SE corner of 8th ave and 29th St.) Best of all - it's FREE!! The Magnet Mixer is your chance to get on stage and perform with experienced improvisors. Sign ups start at 10:30 PM at the front desk of the theater. Members of Magnet House teams lead warm ups and then you are put onto a team - just for the night. We'll be performing long-form inprov and scenes with combinations of people that have never met and may never perform again. So come out Thursday night and play, watch, and drink. Did I mention the $2 beers and extensive wine selection at the lobby bar? The Magnet Mixer - it's good ... and good for you! T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
24 October 2007 It's true ... T.J. is performing in a TRAINWRECK! I have been asked to step into one of the most unique shows on the planet -- TRAINWRECK! Here's the gist: ACT ONE Actor/Improvisors will perform scenes from four plays you probably know. Which scenes - from which plays - will remain a mystery ... even to the other actors until the night of the show. ACT TWO All nine characters return to the stage for a fully improvised Second Act - where plays and characters collide - crossing over into each other's lives and storylines. Cool, huh? This is the fourth incarnation of TRAINWRECK. So while you may have missed Willy Loman from Death of a Salesman in scenes with Blanche DuBois from A Streetcar Named Desire ... Or Waiting for Godot paired up with 'night Mother ... Something equally cool will play out on stage at the Magnet Theater this Sunday night, October 28th at 9:30pm. ONE NIGHT ONLY! It's a cast of talented actors who are also experienced improvisors. While I can't spill the beans about what play I'm a part of ... I can say I saw it on Broadway and its one of the darkest, funniest shows I've ever seen. Hope you can make it. ALSO - this Thursday night at 9:30 PM, FACE will be performing downtown for the first time - at the TANK. The TANK 279 Church Street between Franklin and White Get your tickets while you can @ www.smarttix.com/show.aspx?showcode=FAC1 T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
14 October 2007 FACE! it. It's your LAST CHANCE to see FACE! at the Magnet. I'm thrilled to have finally won over even my most cynical, jaded friends with this show. The crowds have grown every week - and our final performance of FACE! will be this Wednesday night at 8pm at the Magnet Theater in Manhattan. FACE! is a fully improvised fusion of jazz, comedy, music, and theater. At the start of each show, our four person band gets a suggestion from the audience and improvises the music for that night on the spot. Six actors use that new music to inspire the rest of the show - 45 minutes of music, comedy and theater. FACE! performs this Wednesday night at 8pm at the Magnet Theater - 254 West 29th Street (SE corner of 8th Ave and W. 29th St.). Tickets to FACE are only $10. Call 212-244-8824 for reservations. Feel free to come early for a drink at the Lobby Bar. Beer starts at only $2. T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
9 October 2007  Once upon a time ... There was this show in Manhattan that had an identity crisis. Was it improvised jazz? Was it a band? Was it a musical? Was it a comedy? Was it theatre? ... or was it all of the above?Whatever it was, it attracted a following. Audiences loved the show. Musicians clamored to sit in with the band. Six actors had a great time sharing a stage and working side-by-side with musicians to create a new, fully improvised show every week. Because you have been such a good ... (choose one): (friend/mentor/family member/ex/travel companion/committed groupie/roommate/secret crush/next door neighbor/flirt/pen pal) I have arranged for a special "ONE NIGHT ONLY" 2-for-1 discount to come see me in "FACE" at the Magnet Theater. This show has become a huge favorite of mine and I am having a great time creating this fully improvised performance every Wednesday night. The FACE band gets a single suggestion and creates a music score on the spot. Six actors join in and improvise an hour-long show on the spot. This Wednesday's 8pm show is a biggie for us. I won't get into the details, but an audience of good friends (mentors, etc.) would be fantastic. Just be sure to say "2-for-1" at the door and mention my name. WEDNESDAY, OCT 3rd, at 8PM at The MAGNET THEATER - 254 W 29th st./ 8th ave. (SE corner of 8th ave and 29th St). Tickets are only $10! Stick around after the show for drink specials at Billy Mark’s on 29th and 9th. $1 off all drinks! ...and keep an eye out for an angry, bearded attorney on Law and Order. I will be on set this Friday shooting a new role for an upcoming episode. NEXT for T.J. - "TRAINWRECK" Coming October 28th at 9:30 PM. One night only. See some of the most fascinating characters of American Theatre onstage at the Magnet Theater. Act One features scenes from several plays - THEN, see those characters leave the safety of their own stories and interact with each other in a fully improvised second act. Cheers, T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
24 September 2007 Hey all, We opened last weekend and my latest show, "THE PIPER," has received stellar reviews in NYC! (SEE REVIEW BELOW) I'm telling you ... I've been working for ten years in NYC, waiting for the opportunity to tackle a complex lead role such as this one! The cast of "THE PIPER" is exceptionally talented, and stacked with Broadway veterans like Nancy Anderson (Tony Award Nominee for "Wonderful Town," "A Class Act," and "Kiss Me Kate"), Christiane Noll ("Jekyll and Hyde," "Urinetown"), and Patrick Ryan Sullivan ("42nd Street"). The score, composed by Grammy Award Winner Marcus Hummon, has received universal praise. We are so lucky to have been directed by Michael Bush (the former driving force behind Manhattan Theatre Club). We have only three performances left and if you have ever wanted to come (or felt guilted into coming) to one of my shows, this is the one. I'm so proud of the show and the work we have all put into it. Thursday, September 27th at 1:00 PM • Thursday, September 27th at 9:00 PM • Saturday, September 29th at 5:00 PM All performances are at the Theatre at St. Clements at 423 West 46th Street (btwn 9th and 10th ave) in Manhattan. Tickets are available for $20 at www.nymf.org. If you are an Actors Equity member - you can try to get in at the door, but there are no guarantees if it is sold out. IN OTHER COOL NEWS - Ben Gunnery, the amazing piper from "THE PIPER" will be appearing with my other show "FACE" for one night only - this Wednesday night at 8pm. He will be sitting in with the band as they create a fully improvised score for the evening based on an audience suggestion. I am one of six actors that with then create a 45 minute play/musical based on the music they come up with. "FACE" has had successful runs and performances at several other theatres in Manhattan, but we are thrilled to be performing a five week run at the Magnet Theater in Chelsea. "FACE" performs every Wednesday night at 8pm through October 17th. Tickets are only $10. Call for reservations 212-244-8824. Be well, T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
22 September 2007 Hey Y'all, Tonight is the night. VICEROY takes the stage for the last time ever! We are very happy to have been together but we must now go our separate ways and never speak again. VICEROY are Mary Archbold, Scott Cierski, Mark Grenier, T.J. Mannix, Michael McFarland, Marian Rosin, and Matt Stillman. Seven seasoned improvisors performing smart long-form improv comedy. VICEROY performs tonight at 10:30 PM as part of . . . MEGAWATT - Directed by Armando Diaz We will also be joined by Hello Laser! HELLO LASER are Justin Akin, Paul Downs, Alan Fessenden, Elana Fishbein, Corey Grimes, Alex Marino, Peter McNerney, Dave Warth. Magnet Theater 254 W. 29th St., New York, NY 10001 - 212.244.8824 10:30pm Saturday September 22nd The show starts at 10:30pm sharp Saturday night and is only $5. Beer and wine at the lobby bar start at $2 (and that means QUALITY!!). See you then! AND IF THAT WASN'T ENOUGH ... "The Piper" opened this week to standing ovations and excited audiences. Its shaping up to be one of the highlights of the New York Musical Theatre Festival... * "The Piper" features music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Marcus Hummon. * Direction by Michael Bush (for years the driving force behind Manhattan Theatre Club). * Nancy Anderson (Tony Award nominee for Wonderful Town, A Class Act, Kiss Me Kate) * Christiane Noll (Jekyll and Hyde, Urinetown, Miss Saigon) * Patrick Ryan Sullivan (42nd Street) * Robin Skye (Les Miserables) * Some guy named T.J. Mannix... Only five performances left! THE PIPER is being performed in the heart of Hell's Kitchen at the Theater at St. Clements, 423 West 46th Street (between 9th and 10th avenues). Performance Schedule Saturday, Sep 22nd at 1:00 PM Sunday, Sep 23rd at 4:30 PM Thursday, Sep 27th at 1:00 PM Thursday, Sep 27th at 9:00 PM Saturday, Sep 29th at 5:00 PM BUT WAIT, T.J. ... IT'S NOT ENOUGH. I WANT MORE.... If you are free Wednesday nights for the next month or so, you can swing down to the Magnet Theater and catch my OTHER new show, FACE. www.myspace.com/faceimprov FACE is a fully improvised musical/comedy/ with an amazing live band. The upright bass, keyboard, drums, saxophone, electric guitar and special guests improvise music based on an audience suggestion. The six actors create a 45 minute, fully improvised theatrical show. Tickets are only $10 and there is a bar in the lobby with beer and wine for as low as $2. We will be performing every Wednesday night at 8 PM at the Magnet Theater - 254 West 29th Street (SE corner of 8th Avenue and 29th Street). RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED 212-244-8824. Wednesday, September 26th at PM Wednesday, October 3rd at PM Wednesday, October 10th at PM Wednesday, October 17th at PM Be well.... Teej www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix
23 August 2007 Hey all, Sorry if I have been out of touch for a while, but I am juggling rehearsals for several projects right now. I've become a hermit - just me and my scripts, and the occasional box of wine (mmmm). If you are up for some intelligent comedy, performed by adults (and not 19 year olds) - come to Manhattan and catch VICEROY at the Magnet Theater. VICEROY is seven experienced improvisors performing, smart long-form comedy. VICEROY is hosting the 8pm show on Thursdays for the next four weeks (8/23,8/30,9/6, 9/13). Tickets are a steal at $5 and there is a bar in the lobby with beer and wine (including $2 PBRs for the hardcore comedy crowd). Rehearsals for THE PIPER start this week. There's a hell of a pedigree for this one - including composer Marcus Hummon (Grammy Award winner for Song of the Year in 2005), director Michael Bush (Manhattan Theatre Club), and a cast of Broadway veterans. I have the lead in this one, and would love to see some friendly faces out there. I'll let you know as soon as tickets are on sale, or you can check in at New York Musical Theatre Festival . My performance schedule for both shows is in the calendar . Ciao for now! T.J. www.tjmannix.com www.myspace.com/mrmannix 3 August 2007 Hey all, Day One of 12 at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center in Connecticut. Just imagine a small campus of huge trees and buildings on the National Historic Registry - overlooking the ocean. I checked into my tiny, un-air conditioned room in the mansion on campus, completely clueless as to what was in store for me. Thank God I brought along a big fan to keep me from frying. I'm surrounded by some of the biggest names in music and cabaret. I can admit that I'm nervous as hell to perform in front of some of the legends of Broadway and the NYC Cabaret scene.. I was invited to the O'Neill to originate a lead role in the new musical "Becoming Tennessee." The show is still being written right now and we will perform it for the first time on the final night of the conference. I will be in rehearsals from 9-6 every day - every night there will be a cabaret performance - followed by a second act of solo performances. Some of the guest artists are Rita Gardner, Penny Fuller, Tony Award Winner Gretha Boston, Brian Charles Rooney, Barry Kleinbort, and Joel Silberman. I have also been asked to perform Sunday night as part of the "Kleinbort Collection" - a night of original music written by Barry Kleinbort. Both of my songs are incredibly difficult, but I can't wait to tackle them. It's a little like entering a new country and culture, but people assure me that after a day or two, you feel like you've been here forever (in a good way). More soon, T.J. www.tjmannix.com Hey all, I was just offered a lead role in “Becoming Tennessee” at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center . This new musical is about Tennessee Williams' life in New Orleans. The show will be presented as part of the cabaret conference at the O'Neill in early August. “Becoming Tennessee” will be directed by Michael Bush (Manhattan Theatre Club), who I worked with in “Warrior” in last year's NYMTF (New York Musical Theater Festival). I will perform opposite the amazing Brian Charles Rooney (from Broadway's “Three Penny Opera”), and Tony Award winning actress, Gretha Boston. I will be performing every night at the conference as a part of several cabaret nights. I've been asked to sing and dance with legendary singer Penny Fuller and composer Barry Kleinbort. So if anyone is planning to be in Connecticut in August.... Ciao! T.J. www.tjmannix.com Hey all, This is to invite you to the final performance of this run of "FACE." "FACE" is five professional musicians that improvise off of an audience suggestion - and six actors who create a night of theater off of the music they hear. Over the past two months, we have had ... * Four sold-out shows with the group THREAT at the PIT * Two successful charity benefits * One show to benefits the EAG at the PIT where we raised over $500 * Another benefit for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at the ANNEX (with Witches in Bikinis and Vice Stevens) where we raised over $1200 for the cause! Thank you all who have come out and experienced this brand new form with us! Our show has been described as “brilliant”, “original”, “therapeutic”, and “really cool” by friends and strangers alike (what? you need a critic to believe?) This is an important show for us. Several theaters have expressed an interest in hosting us for a long-term run. If that were to happen, it would be because of you and your laughter and your presence. SO! I hope you can come out and see what happens when live free-from jazz meets long form improvisational theatre. Only $10 - and did I mention the $2 beers at the bar in the lobby? FACE at the MAGNET THEATER 254 W 29th St (SE corner of 8th ave and 29th) WEDNESDAY, JULY 25th 8PM, $10 Ciao! T.J. www.tjmannix.com Hey all, By now, most of you know that I'll send out plenty of information, but I won't really invite you to something unless I know it will be worth your time. Well make some time for this one - this Sunday, May 6th Pax Romana and Kid Cadaver are back in action for ONE LAST TIME at the Magnet Theater in Manhattan ... Sunday, May 6th ... at 9:30pm ... "PLAYGROUND RULES!" The school playground was the earliest training ground that made us who we are today. Our best and worst memories. Competition. Teamwork. Puppy Love. Asthma Inhalers. Join PAX ROMANA and KID CADAVER as they take you back to the mean streets of Elementary School, and compete in the toughest arena in comedy where today's rules don't apply. They compete head-to-head under "PLAYGROUND RULES." Someone in the audience will pick the teams. Someone will get chosen last. "PLAYGROUND RULES!" Sunday, May 6th at 9:30pm. The Magnet Theater is located at 254 West 29th Street on the SE corner of 8th avenue. Call for reservations 212-244-8824. Stop by early for a drink at the bar lobby. T.J. www.tjmannix.com Hey all, Clear your calendars on Sunday, May 6th for a special comedy improv event - from the people that brought you the nasty NorEaster that blew through our last performance. Kid Cadaver and Pax Romana are back in action for ONE LAST TIME. Coming to the Magnet Theater ... Sunday, May 6th ... at 9:30pm ... "PLAYGROUND RULES!" The school playground was the earliest training ground that made us who we are today. Our best and worst memories. Competition. Teamwork. Puppy Love. Asthma Inhalers. Join PAX ROMANA and KID CADAVER as they take you back to the mean streets of Elementary School, and compete in the toughest arena in comedy where today's rules don't apply. They compete head-to-head under "PLAYGROUND RULES." Someone will pick the teams. Someone will get chosen last. "PLAYGROUND RULES!" Sunday, May 6th at 9:30pm. The Magnet Theater is located at 254 West 29th Street on the SE corner of 8th avenue. Call for reservations 212-244-8824. Stop by early for a drink at the bar lobby. T.J. Mannix www.tjmannix.com Hey all, I'm in final dress rehearsals for "Committed" right now. We open Saturday night (April 7) at the Lion Theatre on 42nd Street in Manhattan. I'm having a great time with "Men Are Pigs," my portion of the show. It's a fun, fresh take on whether men can get their hearts broken and why they turn out the way they do. Be prepared to travel back to 1986 then on into the 90's. The show is an hour and a half long, but packs a comedic punch. For the homebound among you - my character, "Stan" returns to CBS's As the World Turns again on April 10th. Ciao, T.J. Mannix www.tjmannix.com Hey all, Having a great time juggling three shows right now. My new play "Committed" opens Saturday night at Theatre Row on 42nd Street in Manhattan. "Playground Rules," a new comedy, opens Sunday the 15th at the Magnet Theater. But first - if you are in NYC tonight - be sure to check out the premiere of my brand new comedy - "Failed Family Sitcom." A team of talented comedians will create a fully improvised sitcom - LIVE onstage at the Magnet Theater. The Magnet Theater is located at 254 West 29th Street in Manhattan (on the SE corner of 29th street and 8th ave). Come early for a drink at the tiny lobby bar. T.J. www.tjmannix.com Hey all, If you are near a TV on March 29th, I will be appearing on As the World Turns. The taping went well and they have decided to bring my character back. So now I will be on occasionally as Stan, the head of security at Worldwide. I always enjoy my time working on ATWT. The cast and crew are so professional and welcoming - it makes that hour-long commute to Brooklyn a breeze. I will also be appearing on April 10th. Ciao, T.J. www.tjmannix.com THE TICKET Genre: Comedy, Musical Excerpt from www.OnOffOff.com By: Fred McKinnon The election results may be in, but there is an all-out, go-for broke political campaign (with music, song and dance) being waged these days, a little off Broadway just above Seventh Avenue, at the Sage Theater. The spirited production entitled “The Ticket” revolves around a television show of the same name and candidates aspiring to be governor of an unidentified state. From its opening, the potential for an entertaining evening - as well as some humorous and meaningful comments about the process in which we select the leaders who influence our lives - becomes apparent with engaging presentations of songs like “Dreamers” and “Take a Stand.” The multi-talented ten cast members (with seemingly limitless energy) are consistently outstanding in performing the eclectic and engaging score (Gary Bragg and David Demichelis) encompassing a broad range of musical styles-with smatterings of jazz, country, gospel and pop, in addition to adeptly executing Jacob Brent's felicitous choreography. Under the fine direction by Michael Raimondi of Eric Ottem's book, the principal players are particularly notable: the heroine Diane Johnson (Hope Harris), a charismatic liberal-friendly Republican; Blake Sullivan (T. J. Mannix), the nice guy teacher-friendly Democrat; a former baseball star Spider Brown (C. Mingo Long), the soulful and slick independent who belatedly tosses his cap in the ring; an aristocratic Victoria Johnson (Annie McGreevey), Diane's emotionally conflicted mother; and Australian-accented and appealing Nancy Reynolds (Julie Barnes), the TV studio hostess with ulterior motives. As a candidate for offering fine entertainment, “The Ticket” is a front-runner. Hey all, I am now appearing in a new musical, "The TICKET" at the Sage Theatre in Times Square. The cast is amazing - having appeared on Broadway, London's West End, Radio City Music Hall (and, okay, the stage at the Magnet Theatre). The TICKET opened last night (after Election Day) to a sold out house and a standing ovation. The Ticket - a new musical I play the Democratic candidate for Governor. I'm having a great time tackling this story of politicians, journalists, power brokers, and bed-hoppers. I even get to sing the hell out of a big production number with four back-up dancers. I hope you can make it. Tickets are available at THEATERMANIA.COM . Tickets may also be bought the night of a show at the door. The Sage Theatre is located on 7th avenue in Times Square, between West 47th Street and West 48th. The door to the theatre is under the marquis for the American Girl Doll Store (there's no store - just a marquis) - walk up to the second floor. Shows are at 8pm on Nov 7-11, Nov 16-18, and Nov 24 & 25. 2pm on Saturdays - Nov. 11,18, & 25. and 3pm on Sundays - Nov. 12,19, & 26. T.J. Hey all, I've been keeping a low profile for a while - working hard on a new musical that impresses the hell out of me. I'm rehearsing for “Warrior” - part of the New York Musical Theatre Festival. The show is written by Grammy-Award winning composer, Marcus Hummon. Some of you may have caught our performance in Times Square at the Virgin Megastore. Based on the crowd's response, the music is as powerful as I thought it was. “Warrior” is the life of Jim Thorpe, the greatest athlete in American History. I'm so lucky to have been cast in this show with such powerful music. The cast of Broadway veterans and up-and-comers is equally impressive - including Deven May (Bat Boy) and Tony Nominee Marla Schaffel (Jane Eyre on Broadway). Last year, every performance of every show sold out - so if you are up for it - get tickets now! New York Musical Theatre Festival Tue, Sep. 12th 8:00 PM Theatre at St. Clements - 48th Street in Midtown Fri, Sep. 15th 5:00 PM Fri, Sep. 15th 9:00 PM Sun, Sep. 17th 3:00 PM Wed, Sep. 20th 9:00 PM Sat, Sep. 23rd 5:00 PM T.J. In the tiny space between laughter and madness is...The Official Version. 10 Monologues, 5 Men, 1 Robot. Be sure to catch the FREE preview of this upcoming Rep show. Written by Joe Randazzo (The Onion), directed by JJ Shebesta, and starring David Etkin, TJ Mannix, Duncan Murdoch, Jimmy Owens, and Joe Randazzo. There will be a free preview performance on Wednesday, September 6th. I will be performing on Friday September 8th, 22nd, and 29th at 10pm (I will NOT be in the show on the 15th) - at the Magnet Theater - 254 West 29th Street - on the SE corner of 29th Street and 8th Avenue. Tickets are only $7. There is a bar in the lobby so people can come early and grab a drink. T.J. I have just started rehearsals for a new musical - “WARRIOR” which will premiere this September as part of the New York Musical Theatre Festival . “WARRIOR” was written by Grammy Award winning composer Marcus Hummon. The show tells the story of Jim Thorpe, recognized as the greatest natural athlete in American history. He was a natural at every sport he ever tried and eventually won Olympic gold in the Decathalon. The music is incredible - as is the cast - headed up by Deven May (who I found out today has an amazing 3 1/2 octave vocal range) and Marla Schafel (star of Broadway's “Jane Eyre”). I have the honor of portraying Jim's Thorpe's father. I just learned my solo number “Hiram's Lament” and was blown away by what a powerful song it is. As I sat there with Marcus playing his guitar, this song just resonated in my voice in a way that no other song has. I can't wait to really work on it. T.J. Rehearsals are going well for my new musical in the New York International Fringe Festival . Apparently, we aren't the only ones excited about this new show. Among the over 200 shows in the festival this year - “A Time to Be Born” is already one of the top ten in ticket sales. If you are planning to be in NYC during the third week of August, tickets are going fast! See you there, tj First Sold Out Shows Announced Posted by: Official Press Release 10:36 am EDT 08/09/06 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL FRINGE FESTIVAL 10th Annual Festival Runs August 11 - 27 New York International Fringe Festival (FringeNYC), the largest multi-arts festival in North America, will present the 10th Anniversary Festival from August 11 - 27, 2006. This year, the festival will be the largest ever, presenting programming by 216 of the world's best emerging theatre troupes and dance companies. Shows represent 11 countries (including Poland, Australia, Trinidad and Tobago, Spain, France, Japan and Ireland) and 20 US States (including Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Texas, Florida, Minnesota, New Jersey and Wisconsin). Tickets went on sale to the public at 12:01 am Friday, July 28 and continue to sell briskly. Several productions have sold out individual performances including Flying on The Wing (which has sold out 5 of its 7 scheduled performances), Open House and Broken Hands. Other current sales leaders include Danny Boy, In Transit, Rainy Days and Mondays, Walmartopia, Air Guitar, Hermanas and “A Time To Be Born.” Tickets to all shows are $15 each; multi-show discount passes are also available. For more information visit www.fringenyc.org or call 212-279-4488 (inside NY) or 1-888-FringeNYC (outside NY). Performances cover a wide range of disciplines including theater, dance, performance art, children's theater, spoken word, puppetry, and multimedia. FringeNYC is a production of The Present Company, under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Elena K. Holy. A complete list of shows with scheduling information is currently available at www.FringeNYC.org. Printed guides are now available at FringeCentral (27 Mercer Street, between Grand and Howard Streets in SoHo) or Borders Books & Music stores in Manhattan. |
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