Little Theatre to present black box farcical comedy
Kathy Bigler-Korns, left, Scott Cooley and Michael Antonelli rehearse for The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County’s next production, “Being of Sound Mind.”
Area playwright Richard Parker will provide the script for The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County’s next production, “Being of Sound Mind.” The experimental black box show, under the guidance of Original Productions Director Shawn Clay, will run three days: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 15-17.
Working with Clay are Samantha White, assistant director; Mary Clay, director of directing; Shavonne McMillan, producer; Dan Wiandt, stage director; Joe Compton, lighting design; Clay and Phallon Patterson, sound; and Mayson Kukwa, lights.
Cast members include Michael Antonelli, Mr. Fielder; Maya Lewis, Sheila; Scott Cooley, Andrew; Kathy Bigler-Korns, Aunt Audelia; and Chester Boffo, Mrs. Dondelinger.
Shawn Clay said, “‘Being of Sound Mind’ is a farcical comedy built around an attorney’s desperate attempts at reading a will while dealing with relatives of the deceased. The heirs have gathered around him in his office and are seeing to it that he has the most difficult and ridiculous time during his attempts.
“I am beyond excited to be back directing a new original production on the Little Theatre stage. As a concept, producing original content on a community theater stage is relatively unheard of in our general area. This year’s project was written over 30 years ago by a gentleman I met for the first time in 2022. Richard Parker asked if I would read it and give him my thoughts. My thoughts were it’s funny and I think we should produce this thing. I want to thank the cast and crew for working so hard while also sharing some laughter and joy through the winter months as we put this together.
“Challenges are placed before us in order that we may overcome them and make some people laugh. I couldn’t be prouder of what we have accomplished in the past and eagerly look forward to what accomplishments await us in the future. I am honored to present an evening of laughter and hopefully joyous fellowship as we collectively sit back, relax and watch three jerks annoy their attorney.”
Curtain times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for students. They may be purchased online at www.thelittletheatreonline.org, by calling the Kent State Tuscarawas Performing Arts Center box office at 330-308-6400 or at the door.
“Being of Sound Mind “is sponsored by Dover Lodge #Loyal Order of the Moose. This year’s season sponsor is The Fraternal Order of the Eagles #515-Dover.
The Little Theatre is located at 466 Carrie Ave. NW in New Philadelphia.