Robert Brian Wood
    Introduces Venture Theatre's   
2008-09 Season

I just can't express in words how thrilled I am to be coming home and to be taking the reigns of such a blossoming theatre company as Venture. It's very important for me to stay true to Venture's mission by "producing challenging theatrical works" that "deal with essential issues of the human condition." I also needed to find a season that spoke from my heart and revealed my voice as an artistic director. I hope that these pieces will stimulate conversation among audiences and artists.

I simply adore these shows. Reefer Madness is such an outrageous piece – a complete spoof. It feels just like the town in central Montana where I grew up. The music is entirely eclectic and the numbers are simply outlandish. I am sure that you will love it.

When I was looking for a Christmas piece, my professor in Cincinnati recommended Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol. It was written by a friend of his and developed in part in Cincinnati at the Shakespeare Company. Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol gives me a fresh feeling about the forgiveness and joy of Christmas.

Bug is the only script I’ve ever read that made my jaw drop. I am completely taken by how well written it is. I get so wrapped up in the conversations of the main characters that the conspiracy theories become believable. More than any other theater piece in recent history, it has developed a cult following across the country.

We are extremely privileged to get the rights for The Clean House. This sincere comedy is the newest piece on the season and has only been playing in larger cities and regional houses in the past few years.

And Cabaret… ever since I saw the Studio 54 version in New York, I have dreamed of reinventing this piece. It has so much meaning to me, how these people stand up for what they believe when it is a matter of life or death.

I’ve had many adventures since I left Billings in 2000. I’ve grown as an artist and as a human being, I can’t wait to return and share what I’ve experienced with Venture. Please stop by or be sure to introduce yourself to me at the shows. I can’t wait to become acquainted with everyone in the Venture family.

Robert Brian Wood, Producing Artistic Director