The Marriage Matinee

The Marriage Matinee

The Marriage Matinee is the joint effort of Mr. and Mrs. Caraker, newlyweds who live in Indianapolis, Indiana. Now that they’ve formed the bond of holy matrimony, they’re hoping to form a similar bond with Indy theater. Dylan Caraker is no stranger to the theater scene in Indy. He has participated in over 20 shows both as an actor and as a techie. Since embarking on his journey into career life (and marriage), he has been craving to find a way back into the performing arts and is excited for this opportunity to share his reflections. Celeste Caraker seeks to integrate the arts into her daily life and serves as a teacher in a performing arts-centered elementary school in downtown Indy. In this capacity, she is seeking to inspire a new generation of performers and audiences. When not working, this husband and wife team can be found perusing the wares of vintage markets and art fairs. As if walking down the aisle wasn’t enough of a trek, they also frequent outdoor hiking and walking areas, usually before or after sampling some local flavors in Broad Ripple or Carmel. Together, they hope to bring a unique and dual-sided perspective on the theatrical endeavors of Indy’s finest performers, for better or for worse…

If you would like for us to come visit you and review your show, feel free to hit that contact button below. We would love to meet you!






MOST POPULAR ARTICLES

Review: Honey, Honey Get to MAMMA MIA! at Clowes Memorial Hall
Review: Honey, Honey Get to MAMMA MIA! at Clowes Memorial Hall
February 29, 2024

MAMMA MIA! is an electrifying and heartwarming musical that never fails to delight audiences, and the national tour I experienced last night was no exception. From start to finish, the production was filled with infectious energy, stunning choreography, and, most importantly, incredible vocal performances.

Gimme Gimme MAMMA MIA!: An Interview with Nico DiPrimio
Gimme Gimme MAMMA MIA!: An Interview with Nico DiPrimio
February 27, 2024

We recently had the pleasure of interviewing Nico DiPrimio, a star in the cast of the Broadway touring production of MAMMA MIA! He shared with us the ins and outs of his experiences and gave us a peek behind the curtain of this beloved musical.

Interview: Leslie Broecker on The Official 2024-2025 Broadway in Indianapolis Season Announcement
Interview: Leslie Broecker on The Official 2024-2025 Broadway in Indianapolis Season Announcement
February 27, 2024

We have had the privilege over the last few years to speak with Leslie Broecker, President of Broadway Across America Midwest, about her work to bring the best and the brightest of Broadway to the stages of Murat Theatre at Old National Centre downtown and Clowes Memorial Hall at Butler University. We once again got the inside word on how this season came to be and what to know about this new lineup. 

Review: A Beautiful Tribute: Reflecting on BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL at Beef & Boards
Review: A Beautiful Tribute: Reflecting on BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL at Beef & Boards
February 11, 2024

Last night, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the timeless melodies and poignant story of 'Beautiful: The Carole King Musical' at Beef & Boards. From start to finish, the production radiated charm, nostalgia, and heartfelt emotion, leaving the audience entranced and uplifted. As I reflect on the evening's performance, there's no doubt in my mind that this rendition of the beloved musical was nothing short of spectacular.

Review: TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at Clowes Memorial Hall
Review: TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at Clowes Memorial Hall
January 25, 2024

'To Kill a Mockingbird' remains relevant and poignant, addressing themes that resonate across generations. The play's success lies not only in its compelling source material but also in the exceptional talent of the cast, particularly the nuanced portrayal of Atticus Finch and the authentic depiction of the children. This production is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to provoke introspection and empathy, making it a must-see for theater enthusiasts and fans of the literary classic alike.

Interview: Justin Mark Reflects on TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at Clowes Memorial Hall
Interview: Justin Mark Reflects on TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at Clowes Memorial Hall
January 23, 2024

There can be no doubt that there is a great weight to any role in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. It is a classic novel, but it is so much more to those of us who have read it and absorbed its intensity, integrity, and challenge to evaluate our own biases. As it finds new life as a play, we had the privilege of speaking with Justin Mark who plays Jem in the current touring production. He gave us insight into his process and the ways this story still resonates with a modern audience.

Review: MENOPAUSE: THE MUSICAL Perfect Parodies and Loads of Laughs at Beef & Boards
Review: MENOPAUSE: THE MUSICAL Perfect Parodies and Loads of Laughs at Beef & Boards
January 8, 2024

Any show that calls itself 'Something - the Musical' is unabashedly announcing to its audience: 'We're goofy, and we know it.' This production unabashedly embraces its cheesiness from the start. Any critic versed in this theatrical tradition wouldn't have anticipated Menopause the Musical to be a highbrow experience. Those who dismiss the show based on reviews might miss a unique chance to witness older female actors taking center stage and openly discussing menopause.

Review: I'm Dreaming of a Beef & Boards WHITE CHRISTMAS
Review: I'm Dreaming of a Beef & Boards WHITE CHRISTMAS
November 26, 2023

There are many films that can be considered iconic, and that is especially true of holiday films. However, there is a special place in so many hearts for Irving Berlin’s WHITE CHRISTMAS. Its staying power has held true since its premiere in 1954, and there can be no doubt as to why. Every scene is full of charm, a dash of humor, and of course singing and dancing. Throw in Beef & Boards, and you’re guaranteed to have a truly festive feast!

Review: FROZEN at Murat Theatre Is Mystical, Magical, Fractal Fun
Review: FROZEN at Murat Theatre Is Mystical, Magical, Fractal Fun
November 19, 2023

FROZEN the film has captivated audiences with its magic, charm, and music since its release in 2013, and FROZEN the musical is all the same elements with some important and impactful twists. It’s a true spectacular and engaging for audience members young, old, and everything in between. So if you have any reservations about seeing this production on stage, let it go!

Interview: Preston Perez Brings a New Perspective to Villainy in FROZEN at Murat Theatre
Interview: Preston Perez Brings a New Perspective to Villainy in FROZEN at Murat Theatre
November 10, 2023

For the first time in forever, you’ll be able to watch FROZEN not on your television screen but live on stage at the Murat Theatre as a full-fledged musical. In anticipation of this fantastical experience, we were lucky enough to speak with Preston Perez who is starring as Hans in the touring production. We got to hear about his journey to the stage and also about his unique take on what makes Hans such an intriguing character. 

Review: JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at Beef & Boards
Review: JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at Beef & Boards
October 13, 2023

Originally created by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber more than 50 years ago, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is gracing the stage of Beef & Boards. Fun fact that this show was what launched Rice and Lloyd Webber’s illustrious careers, continuing with more musical collaborations including Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita.

Review: GRUMPY OLD MEN Reels in the Laughs at Beef & Boards
Review: GRUMPY OLD MEN Reels in the Laughs at Beef & Boards
August 29, 2023

GRUMPY OLD MEN split guts and warmed hearts when it first hit theaters as a movie in 1993, and its musical adaptation is no different. The musical on stage now at Beef & Boards maintains all of the charms and chortles of the original and incorporates new, reimagined moments for many of the characters. The musical provides an extra dose of reflection on the importance of living in the moment and recognizing the relationships you have, the relationships you neglect, and the relationships you may be missing out on.

Review: Tap, Snap, and Sway at SOPHISTICATED LADIES at Beef & Boards
Review: Tap, Snap, and Sway at SOPHISTICATED LADIES at Beef & Boards
July 18, 2023

Looking for twentieth-century aesthetics (think an Art Deco club) and swingin’ music, making your heart sing, you’re in luck. Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Ladies” is a 1981 musical revue of the back of Duke’s celebrated history. From early songs like “The Mooche” and “Mood Indigo” to later hits “I’m Beginning to See the Light” and “Satin Doll,” this vogueish revue taps (literally) the Duke’s music back on the stage where it rightfully belongs.

Review: HAMILTON Rises Up at Murat Theatre
Review: HAMILTON Rises Up at Murat Theatre
May 3, 2023

Only a couple of shows recent have received as much interest and praise as HAMILTON. A historical drama, HAMILTON is the creation of Lin-Manuel Miranda that comes with with a dash of comedy and a history lesson presented by outstanding lyrics and exciting music that switches seamlessly from a melody to a rap and back.

Review: LES MISERABLES Returns to Clowes Memorial Hall
Review: LES MISERABLES Returns to Clowes Memorial Hall
March 19, 2023

Les Miserables returned to Indianapolis, again, in excellent fasion, propagating its underlying message that theater can suppress the multitudes. It can be ambitious and weighty, thematically sacred, and blatantly tear-jerking.

Review: MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Brings A Tantalizing Whodunnit To Civic Theatre
Review: MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Brings A Tantalizing Whodunnit To Civic Theatre
March 14, 2023

There’s a reason that Agatha Christie is the best-selling novelist of all time: she sure knows how to write a story. Her works have been immortalized in many ways, and the stage production of MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS adapted by Ken Ludwig is another great example of her storytelling prowess come to life. Audience members get to gasp, laugh, and analyze in their turn as Poirot works his mystery-solving magic.

Interview: Leslie Broecker with The Official 2023-2024 Broadway in Indianapolis Season Announcement
Interview: Leslie Broecker with The Official 2023-2024 Broadway in Indianapolis Season Announcement
March 3, 2023

The time has finally come, and the embargo has lifted! We can officially share the upcoming Broadway in Indianapolis season, and it sure is destined to pack a lot of punches.

Review: FOOTLOOSE Cuts Loose at Beef & Boards
Review: FOOTLOOSE Cuts Loose at Beef & Boards
February 14, 2023

FOOTLOOSE is a musical born of the beloved film from 1984 starring Kevin Bacon. It made a natural adaptation with its sensational soundtrack and heartfelt message. There is of course the titular song, FOOTLOOSE, but there are also gems like “Holding Out for a Hero” and “Let’s Hear It For the Boy.” But this musical has more to offer than exceptional music. It also explores important themes around family relationships and how to decipher between what’s protection and what’s control. Beef & Boards brings it all to life with their staging of FOOTLOOSE. You will kick up your heels, tap your toes, and go home to find your dancing shoes. 

Review: THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK Captures Charm and Tragedy at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre
Review: THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK Captures Charm and Tragedy at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre
February 14, 2023

What did our critic think of THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre? The story of Anne Frank has been immortalized in her own words for decades. Her writings range from the amusing to the dramatic to the tragic, but in their essence, they capture something so fleeting: a girl struggling to become a woman in unspeakable circumstances. Her firsthand account of hiding from Nazis shows us a different side of history, one that can't be summed up in a chapter in a textbook. The Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre has brought her story to life on stage in THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK, a play by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett newly adapted by Wendy Kesselman, and their retelling brings out new sides to Anne's story and pushes you to see this time period from new viewpoints.

Interview: Charlie Bryant III Talks HAIRSPRAY at Old National Centre
Interview: Charlie Bryant III Talks HAIRSPRAY at Old National Centre
February 11, 2023

We had the pleasure of speaking to Charlie Bryant III who plays Seaweed J. Stubbs in the current tour of HAIRSPRAY. He shared his thoughts and insights about the current tour and his personal take on what makes this show so special. 



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