Van Wert, OH Off Stage Productions Inc. is pleased to announce the cast and crew for our Spring 2023 Dinner Theatre production of “Showtime at First Baptist” by Ron Osborn. This all female cast of six includes five veteran actresses from previous shows as well as one making her debut performance. We are very happy to welcome Alea Rex to our stage!
DIRECTOR: Daniel Sanderson
EDITH: Emily Smith
VERA: Stephanie Wagner
MAE ELLEN: Mary Weisman
OLENE: Amy McConn
LUCILLE: Dolores Foreman
ANNIE: Alea Rex
COSTUMER: Julie Lang
“Showtime at First Baptist” takes place in the fictional town of Ivy Gap located somewhere in east Tennessee. First Baptist of Ivy Gap’s 100th anniversary picnic was a smashing success, except for one little thing: the bolt of lightning that struck the church’s steeple, igniting a fire that destroyed the sanctuary and so much more. In the wake of the disaster, key women of the church – led by Edith, the pastor’s take-charge wife – gather in what’s left (the fellowship hall) to commiserate and try to put things back together. To raise spirits and funds for rebuilding, the women plan an evening of entertainment designed to showcase the congregation’s talent. Could it be that some of Edith’s gang plan a song and dance number that may shock the congregation? If so, how will they circumvent the authority of the all-male conservative board of deacons, not to mention, one of their own? Change is in the air as these six diverse women challenge institutions as well as each other. Along the way, there are laughs to be shared, battles to be fought, love to be won, relationships to be mended, and losses to be grieved.
Performances will once again be held in the commons area at Vantage Career Center. Enter door 13 off the back parking lot where plenty of parking is available. Show dates are April 21, 22, 23 and 28, 29 & 30, 2023. Friday shows are “Popcorn Nights” Saturday evening and Sunday Matinee shows are Dinner Theatre.
Reservations for Members open Monday, April 3, 2023
Reservations for the General Public open Wednesday, April 5, 2023
Call the box office number 419-605-6708 during business hours to reserve your tables or seats!
“Showtime at First Baptist” by Ron Osborn will be produced by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. First Produced by the Barter Theatre, Abingdon, Virginia by Richard Rose, Producing Artistic Director.
