Great Bend Community Theatre will try out a new venue this week as it presents the premiere performance of “What2RU?”, a drama, Sept. 19-22 at the Great Bend Events Center.
The cast has been rehearsing at the Crest Theater but with construction going on for installing a new HVAC system at the Crest, the show will be presented at the Events Center, located at 3111 10th St.
The show, written by local playwright Rob Munden and set in central Kansas, tells the story of a psychologist who is dealing with the aftermath of the death of her young son, Phillip. After a downward spiral into alcoholism, she is forced to face her demons and begin the healing process after an encounter with a patient with split personality disorder whose alternate personality shares the same name and age as Phillip.
“This is a very inspirational story that allows the audience to see no matter the circumstance or condition, there is always hope,” said Munden, who is also directing the show.
The cast includes Cathy Anderson and Malia Clark, both making their GBCT debut, and Karen Gore, a veteran of the GBCT stage.
“It’s a real treat because we’re working not only with an original script, but we have the playwright who wrote the script right here on the premises,” Gore said. “It’s been a great experience.”
“What2RU” will be performed at the Events Center on Sept. 19, 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee on Sunday, Sept. 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 and may be purchased in advance online at www.gbct.net or at the door beginning one hour prior to each performance. All tickets will be general admission, with no assigned seats.
A reception with hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday Sept. 21. Tickets for the reception may be purchased in advance during box office hours or at the door for $10.
GBCT is presenting “What2RU” as a special show in addition to the regular season, so season ticket holders will need to purchase a ticket to this show separately in order to attend.
Gore designed the set and coordinated set construction and painting with the assistance of Steve Stearns. CJ Gibson is serving as Stage Manager and Luke Abbott will run lights and sound. Maribeth Shafer assisted Munden as a script adviser.
The show has been produced with the assistance of underwriters Thermal Performance Insulation and University of Kansas Health Systems - Great Bend Campus.
For questions regarding tickets call Great Bend Community Theatre, 620-792-4228.
