'Dear Ruth' to open this weekend

'Dear Ruth' to open this weekend
Lee Elliott

Sarah Spies, left, and Chester Boffo rehearse for “Dear Ruth” at The Little Theatre.

                        

The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County will open its spring play, “Dear Ruth,” on Friday, April 26 and continue its run on weekends through May 12. Curtain time for Friday and Saturday performances is 7:30 p.m., with matinees on Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

Written by Norman Krasna, the plot involves teenager Miriam Wilkins, an energetic activist during World War II who blithely involves her family by enlisting them for causes without first gaining their consent. Her father, Judge Wilkins, and mother Edie are puzzled when Lt. William Seacroft, a complete stranger, appears at their home asking for their 22-year-old daughter Ruth.

Bill has just returned from Italy, where he flew 25 missions over Germany as the bombardier of a B-26 bomber, but he has only two days of leave. He explains that he has been corresponding with their daughter Ruth and has fallen in love with her. He makes a favorable impression and promises to return later to meet her for the first time in person. Things get complicated from there.

Artistic Director Bart Herman said “Dear Ruth” is a family-friendly romantic comedy, first appearing on the Broadway stage in 1944.

“Dear Ruth’s” cast includes Gillian Kaschek, Dora; Elizabeth Thomakos, Edith Wilkins; Jade Boffo, Miriam Wilkins; Don Irven, Harry Wilkins; Sarah Spies, Ruth Wilkins; Chester Boffo, William Seawright; Jack Thomas, Albert Kummer; Jennica Cochran, Martha Seawright; Jared Cochran, Chuck Vincent; and Orvis Campbell and Seth Rhodes as Harold Klobbermeyer.

Aiding Herman are production staff members are Jay Cochran, assistant director; Autumn Stennett, stage manager; Jane Deitrick, set design; Michele Davis and Jane Deitrick, scenic decorating; Bart Cannizzaro, master carpenter; Chad Anderson, Michele Davis, Spencer Cannizzaro and Jane Deitrick, set construction; Ellie Haverfield, sound; Seth Rhodes, Chelsea Rhodes and cast, props; Sarah Spies, Elizabeth Thomakos and cast, costumes; Deb DeVore, hair and makeup; Lee Elliott, publicity; Mickey Rogers, photographer; and Shannon Mitchell and April Bonvechio, producers.

“Dear Ruth” is sponsored by Dr. Philip and Carolyn Dixon, and the season sponsor is Dover FOE #515.

Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for children. They may be purchased at KSU Performing Arts Center's box office in person or by calling 330-308-6400, at the Little Theatre on show dates, or by calling 330-343-4012. Ask about a military discount.

The show is presented in cooperation with Concord Theatricals. Little Theatre is located at 466 Carrie Ave. NW in New Philadelphia.


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