DUBOIS – Theatrical quirks and personality foibles are the focus of the Tom Dudzick comedy, “Don’t Talk to the Actors” at the Reitz Theater in DuBois.
Shows will be Feb. 14-15 and Feb. 20-22 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. The best laid plans go awry when the cast and crew of a Broadway-bound play resort to manipulation, diva-like behavior and chaotic abandon to get what they want.
Director Jonathan Heid says that he chose the play because it focuses on a variety of things that are a part in any play – amateur or professional. “The show appealed to me,” Heid says, “because it pokes fun at the many artistic temperaments that we run across in theater.
“Anyone who has worked in theater will recognize a character or scenario that they can relate to. And, it’s a fresh look at the inside for those who come to see shows, but haven’t been behind the scenes.” Playwright Dudzick says that play is a “semi-fictional” account of his experiences during the 1993 Off-Broadway run of his first play, “Greetings,” that starred Darren McGavin, forever known as the father in “A Christmas Story.” Fledgling playwright Jerry Przpezniak (played by Brian Hand) and his fiancé, Arlene (Valerie Kucenski) are a couple of Buffalo greenhorns suddenly swept up in the whirlwind of New York’s theater scene when Jerry’s play is optioned for the big money, ego-driven world of Broadway.
Former television idol Curt Logan (Brian Folmar) and his ex-TV wife, Beatrice Pomeroy (Sharon Folmar) are picked for the roles in Jerry’s play, but try to change their characters to suit them. Easy-going director Mike (Drew Gordon) and detailed-focused Stage Manager Lucinda (Jenny Gordon) try to keep things geared to stay true to Jerry’s original script.
Heid adds, “The cast has worked hard to bring life to their respective characters.” The production does contain some adult language.
Sponsored by Hopkins Heltzel Law Firm and Wise Eyes Optical of DuBois, tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for senior citizens and students and $5 for children 12 and under. They can be purchased at Kohlhepps True Value, S&T Bank (on the Boulevard), Rosie’s Book Shoppe, Ms. Cat’s Cache (formerly Catherine’s Cache), Stews Brew Coffee House and the Tannery Bar & Grill at the DuBois Country Club.
For special opening night treats on Feb. 14, Cultural Resources Inc. will provide free coffee; Sifty Business will have free sugar cookie samples; and Brady Street Florist will provide a floral arrangement that will go to someone with a lucky show ticket.
To reserve your seats, call 814-375-4274. To find out more, go to www.reitztheater.com.