OSWEGO – The Oswego Players partners with a new arts non-profit, Beyond the Rainbow Productions, to present the classic comedy “Arsenic and Old Lace” at the Frances Marion Brown Theater, located on Barbara Donahue Drive across from Fort Ontario State Historic Site in Oswego. Performances run Fridays through Sundays, Oct. 25-27 and Nov. 1-3. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees starting at 2 p.m.
“Arsenic and Old Lace” is a well-known dark comedy that follows the Brewster family, entwined with elements of farce and crime. The production is directed by Kevin Colvin, president of Beyond the Rainbow Productions.
“I saw the ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ film with Cary Grant for the first time in my mid-20’s,” said Colvin. “It appealed so highly to my dark, morbid, twisted sense of humor that, after debating if I would like to direct a show someday, I knew it would be this show I would want to direct first. I am very excited and grateful that the Oswego Players have agreed to co-produce it with Beyond the Rainbow, and finally give me the directorial debut I’ve been dreaming of for the last six years.”
Tammy Thompson, a frequent face in Oswego Players’ casting, is reprising the role of Martha Brewster, one of the murderous yet delightfully eccentric aunts that headlines the show. She expressed her excitement in re-appearing as Martha 40 years later.
“I was part of the 1984 season of Prairie Repertory Theatre in South Dakota,” said Thompson. “It was my first lead role in college! I am so happy to be sharing the stage with some of my favorite people and being directed by another of my favorite people. There is so much joy and laughter each night of rehearsal. I can’t wait to share this production with audiences.”
Her counterpart, Kimberly Vogt, portrays the equally charming sister, Aunt Abby Brewster.
Concerning the rehearsal process, Vogt said, “This experience has been great. We have such a good cast. Kevin has been wonderful as a director. He gives valuable feedback and listens to his actors for their suggestions as well. The show is going to be fantastic, and I cannot wait for people to see it!”
Both aunts bemuse their nephew Mortimer as he learns about their activities behind closed basement doors. Will Bandla plays the role of Mortimer Brewster, a cynical bachelor and working drama critic who hopes to marry the girl next door but discovers that his plans may be superseded by his family’s troubling penchant for crimes and wines.
For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Oswego Players’ box office at 315-343-5138 or visit the website at www.oswegoplayers.org.
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