Shameless Plug of the Day - Nostagia, Recycling, and Oscar Wilde

Because I appreciate symmetry.

Because I like the work at Ben Tallen and Ellen Fenster do.

Because I support recycling of all sorts.

And because I'm essentially a sentimental son of a bitch a lot of the time, I give you the following press release that hit my inbox. Go support them if you're able. Sounds like fun...

"A Benefit for the Theater Program Brings Professional Actors Back to the South High Stage

VLP Productions will present Oscar Wilde's classic, "The Importance of Being Earnest" on June 24, 25, 26, and 27, 2009 at South High School Theater in Minneapolis.

The all-alumni production is a benefit for the South High Theater Program, which was directed by Louise Bormann for the past fifteen years. Under Bormann's direction this vibrant program has produced over 40 theater professionals. The success of these actors, directors, and technical personnel on a regional and national level demonstrates how an excellent arts program in the public schools impacts both the students and the community.

Bormann will resign as Artistic Director of South High Theater effective the end of the 2008-2009 year. Her appearance as Lady Bracknell will give her the opportunity to work on stage with and be directed by former students, who all now work professionally in the theater. Alumni Ahren Potratz, Ben Tallen, and Teresa Regan Hess will recreate the roles they played as freshman in the 1994 South High staging of The Importance of Being Earnest. The play will be directed by alumna Ellen Fenster and will also feature some set pieces, props, and costumes from the 1994 production.

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All performances begin at 7:30 pm. at Minneapolis South High School Theater located at 3131 19th Avenue South. Free parking is available in the school parking lot.

General Admission tickets will be available at the door one hour prior to the performance. Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $10 for students. All profits benefit the South High Theater program. Payment by cash or checks made out to VLP Productions only.

"VLP Productions" principal Virginia Potratz is an independent producer committed to supporting arts in the public schools."

How can you not be a little in love with that idea?