On With The Shows

Social Security closed on Sunday, June 14. The audience numbers are in and we are so pleased that so many people were there to enjoy the presentations. We are very proud of our cast which included vetrans and newcomers alike. Janet Starn reminded us all that, in the words of Sophie Greengrass, we are still alive. In so many ways.

Special thanks to Director Frith Harwood for bringing Social Security back to the stage. It still resonates when you have great direction and fabulous talent on stage. Jim Weinzettle received the most stars and we were so thrilled that he stepped out of his normal every day "mild mannered man" role. Susan Hathorn was Barbara, what more can we say. And she did an amazing job gathering the props and pieces that are so vital to the successful production. Allen Rowlen and Paula Antee as Martin and Trudy, put aside their own personalities to become the Heymans. Jim Leggett did a great job assuming the role of Maurice Koenig, "a hundred year old jew." He looked terrific! We must not forget to thank Mark Gilette, for so much help backstage and for the portrait of Sophie. Newcomer Greg Conner manned the light and sound board quite well. Lighting designer, Ron Rachal, was, as usual, just the best. There are countless others who helped to make the show a success and we thank them all.

And the audiences made each performance so much fun.

Now we are on to the next production, Flyin' West by Pearl Cleage, a drama, set in the late 1800's. The characters face problems ranging from the inevitability of long, cold winters, to the possibility of domestic violence, to the continuing spectra of racial conflict. Director, Dianne Falcone, has announced the cast:

Sophie Washington............Karen Riley Simmons
Miss Leah............................Rosa Metoyer
Fannie Dove.......................Natalie C. F. Phillips
Will Parish..........................Doogie Golatt
Minnie Dove Charles...........Margreek Dorsey
Frank Charles......................Jerry Havens

We have begun rehearsals and will open this production in August. Check back here for updates and additional information. We look forward to seeing you at the theatre.