Running gags and sibling rivalry abound, as the Reitz Theater in DuBois presents Phil Olson’s “A Nice Family Gathering” sponsored by Kohlhepps True Value and CNB Bank. Show times are at 8 p.m. April 19-20 and April 25-27 and at 2 p.m. April 21.
According to Director Drew Gordon, the core of the play is as simple as an old mid-western joke . . . the story of the man who loved his wife so much, he almost told her. “Each character in the play can identify with those who watch it,” Gordon says. “You can’t help but pick out a relative or two in the group.”
It’s Thanksgiving Day and the first family gathering at the Lundeen household since Dad (Brian Folmar) died. At the gathering, dad comes back as a ghost, asking his son, Carl (Ed Bach) to help tell his wife of 35 years that he loved her, something he neglected to tell her while he was alive.
The problem is, she can’t hear or see him. The trouble begins when mom (Sharon Jerashen) invites a date for dinner.
Cast member include Ben-Fitzgerald-Fye, Jessalyn Pennvose, Alyssa Wood, Beecher Klingensmith and Nancy Rosman.
Gordon adds, “Each actor has shining moments throughout the play. It’s very difficult to balance the levels of comedy and drama that they do so well. The performance will make you laugh one moment, and then shed a tear the next.”
“A Nice Family Gathering” has played in more than 90 cities around the United States, Canada and Australia.
On opening night, “A Little Taste of Heaven” will welcome patrons from 7 p.m. until show time with samples, including something dad would eat — Maple Bacon Cupcakes.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for senior citizens and students, and $5 for children 12 and under, and may be reserved by calling 814-375-4274, or online at reitztheater.com. Tickets may be purchased at Kohlhepps True Value, S&T
Bank Liberty Boulevard, Rosie’s Book Shop, Catherine’s Cache and Stew’s Brew Coffee House.