Nice, local theater company. Lots of young, and very young, staff and actors, but intergenerational. E.g., the four parents in Our Town were in fact local parents, three of whom made their stage debuts. The play was set locally and brought new relevance to the play, making adjustments to connect the play more closely to our community. A novel outdoor venue. In general, Paraphrase puts on great shows and helps develop actors of all ages and abilities.
I went to a production of Next to Normal this summer and I was so touched by how powerful the performance was.
Thank you for reminding me of the importance of giving myself the freedom to process the hurt in my life.
I love working with Paraphrase Productions. This group is truly dedicated to the art of making something beautiful out of scratch. They care for their actors & actresses above all and create a wholesome and loving environment for all ages. 10/10 would recommend!
Paraphrase Productions is such a wonderful nonprofit. They tell stories that positively impact the community and strive to make theater accessible to all!
Paraphrase Productions is a young and impressive theatre company that has been growing at an accelerated rate due to the organization and backbone of the young artists in charge. I've never met a team of 20 year olds so responsible and so clear minded. Not only are they committed to bringing quality performance arts to the Monterey Peninsula, but they prioritize youth experiences and outreach. Having just moved to the area, I can also speak on their hospitality and respectability. These young professionals define Theatre Arts in America; young struggling people with passionate hearts that create good theatre, not for validation or attention, but for true care and respect for the craft and their community.
I had have had countless amazing experiences with Paraphrase. The experience that stands out the most to me was my experience as Stage Manager for the Emerging Artists Program. I learned so many things through this program and it was such a unique experience. I can honestly say that there isn’t another company like Paraphrase out there and I love working with them on amazing projects!
I was in the emerging artist program and I loved every minute of it! I don't live the absolute closest to paraphrase's office so I assumed I'd have to bus everywhere, yet out of the kindness of their hearts I was offered rides to and from which made it a lot easier to get there. They are professional and yet also very kind and will help you when you need it. I highly recommend this program to any theatrical artist in the area because I don't think you'll find a company this kind.
I look forward to attending any performance put on by Paraphrase Productions. Their creativity and love for the arts and people is brightly displayed.
I've served on several boards and my career has been in the non-profit industry. My past employment includes Executive Director (local chapter) of the March of Dimes and MS Community Services. When I was asked to serve on the founding board of directors for Paraphrase Productions I didn't hesitate.
I've been following this non-profit since it's inception... Pre non-profit if you will. Let me give you some words that describe Paraphrase-Productions: Energetic, exciting, excellent, scrappy, bold, confident, young, smart, inclusive, charismatic, servent-leaders, honest and talented. Their productions are first rate, and they have put all those descriptors and more into serving our community with the kind of entertainment that brings chill bumps and heart thumps. Part of their mission is to encourage and develop young adults by providing a safe place in the theater world to explore their budding talent. They are adept and bringing out the best in their peers, which is celebrated on the stage.
The newest Paraphrase project is partnering with Special Kids Connect which serves the community of developmentally disabled young adults by offering workshops and camps called "Sing, Dance and Move". It's very heart warming to watch Paraphrase-Productions provide a safe place for these special young people, giving them an opportunity to shine.
In addition, they are taking on the local establishment of theatre with bold vision, and respectful collaboration. Paraphrase truly is shining a new light on our local theater!
As a board member, I can attest to the fact they are organized, timely and thorough with their reports. Their deadlines are always met, they excel at networking and personal relations. They are critical thinkers brining a business-like mentality to the arts. It works.
Paraphrase-Productions is a winner and I am looking forward to helping them develop the resources to continue the wonderful work they are doing!
Our daughter is a Paraphrase Production leader, and she and three other college age adults made the summer of 2018 productions amazing. Emily's a communication major and heading into her senior year at BIOLA. This summer, she created marketing materials, solicited Monterey area business for advertising sales and performance poster posting, built sets, learned about fundraising, solicited audiences and so much more. Emily, with Andy, Paul and Victoria have created opportunities for area theater actors and fans to enjoy musicals and plays. These creative minds and their committed Board of Directors makes the future of Paraphrase very bright. Looking forward to the 2019 season!
Want a wonderful night out? Check out the latest Paraphrase Production appearing in the Monterey area. We saw the musical, Hunchback of Notre Dame this July and enjoyed the professional, detailed, enthusiastic singing/acting. Great set and effects (my favorite effect was the human staircase). It is even more impressive that this 5 year old non-profit is managed by 4 twenty somethings :) -- what a great experience learning how to produce such excellent theater but also manage a thriving business too. Supporting Paraphrase Production supports Monterey area youth/young adult actors and business people.
I have been endlessly impressed with the integrity and professionalism of these young people. Everyone at Paraphrase Productions - from the leadership team to the stage crew and every actor - strive for excellence in every show they do. What an amazing opportunity this is for the next generation who wants to break into this industry and learn all the different aspects in a positive and encouraging environment. Every show they produce is well worth the price of a ticket!
I was first introduced to Paraphrase when it was in its infancy. I was asked to help with publicity for their first show, so attended one of their early rehearsals for “Little Shop of Horrors.” I was incredibly impressed with this group of young, passionate, driven actors and organizers, most just out of high school. Their vision of creating a mentorship program for performers, crew and higher level creators was novel and inspirational. Since that first show, they have never looked back. They have worked methodically to grow the organization, the shows, the budget and the vision to “shine a new light on theatre through peer-to-peer mentoring of young adult artists in theatrical performance and creative excellence.” Paraphrase is one of the best new non-profits in our community.
Paraphrase Productions brings wonderful theatre to the Monterey Bay area. Their shows always excel in both acting and production value. I travel all the way from Orange County to come see their shows. As an audience member, you can tell they are passionate about telling exciting and touching stories, mentoring younger artists, and bringing the community closer together through theatre.
Every show I've seen by Paraphrase has been exceptional. The set, the actors, the lighting and sound, everything really has been top notch. They seek to grab your attention and make you think in ways you never thought previously and you leave deeply inspired. The quality of their work is truly unparalleled.
I am extremely gratified to serve on the board of Paraphrase Productions because of the work they do to support the arts in Monterey County. The organization regularly produces what I feel are excellent, professional productions of Broadway musicals and plays. It gives Monterey County actors and musicians the opportunity to audition and participate in these plays, along with workshops to strengthen their skills. This year, they have partnered with Special Kids Connect to provide classes in Movement and Singing for the population that SKC serves and have provided volunteers to assist with making the classes that much more meaningful for those students. Paraphrase is made up of people who feel passionate about live theater and want to make it possible for a wide variety of ways to enjoy it.
it is increrdible to watch Paraphrase Productions grow. With only three years of operation they have made a name for themselves. Young men and women taking the theater arts on the Monterey Peninsula. They have brought together an unblievable array of young talent for musical performances. Their professionalism in porducing and promoting their events is commendable. We look forward to see what they will be bringing for the 2109 season. They are developing great support from patrons of the arts.
Paraphrase Productions is an amazing non-profit company. My family and I have made it a point to drive 6 hours every summer to see the wonderful shows put on. I have had the privilege of watching the last 4 shows put on by paraphrase. Each show makes my love and appreciation for this company grow. I can not wait until next summer to see what unforgettable show will be put on.
Had an amazing experience at these show are so well done, truly magical performances with such immense talent.
Paraphrase is providing an outstanding avenue for young adults both in and out of school to continue receiving experience in the theater arts and learn new skills. Whether it be on stage acting and singing, in direction of a play, back stage support, lighting and sound work, costuming, props and sets creation, or other facets of the theater business. We are lucky to have the dedicated management of Paraphrase who is willing to provide the leadership and dedication to ensuring their goals and objects are met in this not-for-profit company. Please support their efforts by donating your money or time to continue their current successes.
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We were very pleasantly surprised with the professionalism of the production, acting, singing and costumes for The Man of La Mancha and Pippen. I believe the formula of mentoring, volunteerism and commitment to excellence of everyone evolved will make Paraphrase Productions a huge success in the coming years. It will be the place to be to demonstrate what you have learned from formal and informal training and experiences in all avenues of theater.
Paraphrase Productions is such an incredible nonprofit! Serving a niche in our community-teen and young-adult thespians-Paraphrase Productions has given many young actors a place to work on their craft while feeling welcomed and appreciated. I have been a participant since their beginning, and watching the organization grow and blossom has been incredible. Created by some of the kindest people I know, Paraphrase Productions is an inclusive space for anyone and everyone. I hope they continue to gain support as a nonprofit and spread their talent for many years to come.
It takes a spectacular theater company to bring out the best of the amazing talent involved to create something extraordinary and memories that last a lifetime.
I have rather high standards and have been VERY impressed with each production that I've seen so far. I can honestly say that each show has been nothing short of spectacular! So, naturally I wanted to work with the talented bunch at PP. Working with them on The Glass Menagerie was a complete joy, and I hope to work with them again in the future!
In the Monterey area, there's very little opportunity for youth interested in theater to make the jump from high school theater to professional. What opportunity there is can feel intimidating. Paraphrase does a wonderful job of educating and encouraging youth in an exciting, creative atmosphere. It's obvious how passionate about theater the production staff is, and that translates into incredible performances. The mentorship program is ideal for jobs such as stage managing and directing where it's difficult to find that foothold experience.
Paraphrase does well at teaching its cast and crew the skills necessary for thriving in the industry as well rounded professionals, all while still maintaining a fun-filled, lighthearted atmosphere. The Paraphrase team is brimming with welcoming, kind, hard-working individuals. There is something truly special about this company.
I have enjoyed for many years both large and small theater productions in Southern California. Although told by two people I respect that Man of La Mancha and Pippen were very good the level of professionalism and talent I witnessed that weekend was remarkable. It was evident from the early minutes until the emotional endings when many, including myself came to our feet. Kudos to the surprising small guys who made it a great evening!
Paraphrase is run by a bunch of young, but experienced people. Everything they do is so professional, and they really give back to the community and provide great opportunities to get involved. I can't wait to see what they do next!
Coming out of high school, I was prepared to leave behind all thoughts of trying to do something related to theatre. I wanted to be full into the major I was going into, but my yearning to still be apart of the theatre community only grew. I searched for ways to be involved, but I only came to stops in the road because no one wanted someone who only had 4 years of training. Not Paraphrase, they gave me the chance of a life time to work on their show The Addams Family Musical by doing music cues and sound. It was such a fun experience, and was able to really utilize talents I thought were not related to this job. Even when I didn't get to help out this summer with Pippin or Man of La Mancha, I could tell that everyone's specific quirk really helped them portray their roles, no matter how big or small. and OH DO NOT GET ME STARTED ON THE COMMUNITY IN THIS GROUP. They are so solid and try to make everyone feel like family. They are truly amazing.
Paraphrase Productions has created something truly wonderful for actors in the Monterey Bay area. I have been with Paraphrase for 3 years now, and I can confidently say that auditioning for Little Shop was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only does this company produce fantastic pieces of art, but they work tirelessly to create an evironment in which cast and crew members bond and learn from each other. From Paraphrase I have gained a second family, and 3 amazing summers. I look forward to seeing where Paul, Andy, and Victoria take Paraphrase Productions.
When I entered the very pretty Carmel Forest Theater, I expected a pleasant community theater production of "Man of La Mancha".
"Pleasant" turned out to be an understatement.
This execution of the classic was EXCEPTIONAL. One of my favorite theater experiences ever. No kidding.
The acting, especially by the three leads, was right on point. The singing was mesmerizing. The whole flow and timing of the play was engaging; it seemed to go by in a half hour.
I'm from Los Angeles and have no qualms about driving up there again next year.
My hat's off to the director, cast, and crew.
I started working with Paraphrase Productions in summer 2017. It is an absolute joy to work with Paraphrase because everyone's passion for theatre arts and education overflows into all that they do. I was blown away when I got the chance to see Pippin and Man of La Mancha. The impact that Paraphrase Productions has in the local community as a place where excellence, friendships, and personal and professional growth happen is clear to see.
Outstanding professionalism and talent coming from these young college age adults! These two 2017 summer productions-"Man of La Mancha" and "Pippin", well surpass the larger productions we have seen in the LA area. Across the board-from the actors to directors, producers, stage managers-this production company is a well deserved 5 stars. Looking forward to their next season!
When someone says a person or group "has potential," I usually get the impression it's just a nice way of saying "not that great." However, when I say Paraphrase Productions "has potential," I mean to say that, if they can accomplish all the incredible things they have with the few resources they currently have, they have SUCH great potential to accomplish SO MUCH more given just some more resources.
I was a member of the pit band for Paraphrase's production of Pippin, and it was incredible seeing the show come together from its humble beginnings. The cast was so diverse in their talents and what was most intriguing was seeing the large age span of the actors involved. This intrigued me because I remember my days playing trumpet in middle school and looking up to all the "big kids" in high school who were far more advanced than myself. I could look up to them and they could mentor me in my studies. Then, all of a sudden, I was the "big kid" in high school mentoring the middle schoolers who all looked up to me. This is exactly the kind of mentoring experience that can and does happen in Paraphrase shows. It's a beautiful thing to watch and see everyone's hard work come to fruition in a professional-quality show, and I hope to see many more years of Paraphrase shows!
What can I say about Paraphrase Productions? From the time I auditioned until the end of the load-out, I have been so impressed with the professionalism of Paul, Andy, Victoria, Sierra, Justin, Jerrod and the rest.
First the auditions were extremely well organized. No time was wasted, and the process was efficient and relaxed, the auditioners encouraging and supportive. Callbacks were also well done. What impressed me most
was being asked to improvise during the callbacks--i.e. asking me to put Ty (Pippin) on my lap, asking another actor to play it as if blind. Very cool! It invited us to stretch and may have given Paul some idea of how well we could take direction.
Then, during rehearsals, one thing I noticed that I had never seen before in community theater was Paul's use of large pieces of paper, posted on the walls of the rehearsal space, with the set design on them--birdseye view--and his use of small post-it notes to identify the actors, which, presumably, he could move around if he wished to change the blocking.
Paul's ability to work with other theaters such as Paper Wing and the Forest Theater Guild guaranteed Paraphrase venues in which to perform, and his insistence upon recognizing these theaters, when posting pictures, for example, went a long way toward cementing relationships with them for the future. (Also, I don't know how he arranged it, but the rehearsal space he provided for us was ideal.)
I know from past experience that getting tax exempt status is not necessarily an easy process. Paraphrase has successfully navigated it, at least in part by making the mentoring program such an essential aspect of the company. The mentorees were significantly part of the rehearsal and production process of both Pippin and La Mancha, in preparation for their own production of The Glass Menagerie at the end of the summer.
Both Paul and Andy were wonderful directors, with vision and "people skills" enabling them to elicit the very best performances from their actors. Both were also excellent at delegating and trusting their crews so they could focus on directing.
Everything was so professional! Even the programs, which other theaters often run off on a xerox machine, were polished, artistic, and worthy of Broadway--glossy and in color. May not seem like much of a much, but it surely impressed me!
Before rehearsals even began, Paraphrase presented a fundraising program worthy of a full-fledged, polished production, free, but accepting donations. It speaks to the quality of the performance that they were able to raise enough money to begin to fund the shows.
The fact that the eight performances--4 each of Pippin and La Mancha--were presented to nearly sold out houses speaks volumes about their excellence. Word of mouth as well as aggressive pre-production publicity, passing out posters and cards, all done by the casts and crews, resulted in packed audiences. I understand that the Forest Outdoor Theater has never before had such large attendance.
Bottom line, I have never been so impressed by a theater company, and I hope so much to be a part of their future productions. Thank you so much, Paul and Andy.
Paraphrase has been such a blessing in my life over the years. I have been with Paraphrase since its beginnings in 2015 and each production has allowed me to grow more and more in my artistic abilities. The fact that I am able to work with such talented individuals in a field that I love has kept my drive for Theater alive.
Paraphrase is truly set apart from other theater companies on the peninsula. We have actors from every walk of life and place of experience come together to create beautiful works of art that audience members are able to be inspired by.
For many theater companies Production Quality and Education are in a constant battle. Shows where Production Quality is the most important factor tend to lose that aspect of learning which is so important in theater. On the flip side, shows that are only intended to educate actors can be unbearable to watch. For Paraphrase, however, Production Quality and Education are BOTH at the forefront of the creative teams. We are able to create shows that blow people's minds and teach new actors the ropes.
All in all, Paraphrase Productions has been one of the most important catalysts for growth in my life and I can't wait to see where it is going to go!
Paraphrase Productions produces excellent work and fosters an accepting environment for those still finding their way with their art. I have had the pleasure of working with these incredible artist for the past three summers and it is astounding how much work the creative team puts into these shows. This theater company has a rare atmosphere of having high expectations of their performers while cultivating a low stress rehearsal space, both of which I believe is essential to putting together great theater.
The executive members of Paraphrase surprise me each summer in their ability to improve exponentially with every new venture. They do not stay stagnant in their professionalism or artistic capabilities. These directors learn from their mistakes and are not afraid to listen to their actors. This is a feat which requires great temperament and humility which is scarce in this theater community.
Simply said, Paraphrase is a breath of fresh air. These young artists will keep getting more ambitious and more hungry every season and I am eager to see this non-profit succeed.