Five Exciting Plays On Tap for 2008 Old Lyric Repertory Company Season

The Old Lyric Repertory Company is back for the 2008 season with five exciting plays and several changes to give theatergoers an even better experience.

The Old Lyric Repertory Company is a production program based in the Department of Theatre at Utah State University in Logan, and is a part of the Caine School of the Arts and the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences. Home to the company is the Caine Lyric Theatre, 28 W. Center Street, Logan.

 

On the bill this year are Beau Jest, a romantic satire; Deathtrap, a comedic murder mystery; Chaps!, a Western musical review; The Dresser, a poignant drama; and And Then They Came for Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank, a moving show that combines video interviews of Holocaust survivors with scenes recreated by actors.

 

Colin Johnson, theatre arts department head at USU, serves as the OLRC artistic director.

 

“This season presents five productions that tap into the human condition and provides diverse themes that most everyone can enjoy,” Johnson said.

 

The season opens with the drama The Dresser by Ronald Hardwood, a touching story about the waning career of a theater actor and his struggle to maintain a traditional existence even as his world is threatened by instability.

 

Johnson said this particular production will bring something special to the show, as three generations of Calls share the stage. OLRC founder W. Vosco Call is joined by his son, Richard Call, and grandson, Richie Call, in a rare partnering of performers, Johnson said.

 

“The chemistry and fluidity from the Calls should be electrifying to watch, and is definitely an exciting instance in an already storied OLRC progression,” Johnson said.

 

James Sherman’s Beau Jest brings audiences a family-friendly comedic satire based around a quirky love story. Adding to the blend of emotions, Chaps! by Jahnna Beecham and Malcolm Hillgartner gives patrons Western music to tap along with — even if it is set in a BBC news studio. Meanwhile, Deathtrap by Ira Levin offers a thrilling plot with startling twists and a touch of laughter for a gripping ride.

 

Johnson said one of the most poignant pieces this summer is the annual apprentice production. This season, the future stars of the OLRC produce and perform And Then They Came For Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank, which combines interviews of Holocaust survivors Ed Silverberg and Eva Schloss with scenes from their lives recreated by actors. This production is sure to strike an emotional chord with audiences, Johnson said.

 

The 2008 season also highlights several visiting artists. Rutgers University students Richie Call, Sasha Kaye and Joseph Tisa will bring a taste of East Coast flair to OLRC shows. Patrons may also recognize Fred Willecke, Corey Ewan, William Warren and Steven Fehr, all former OLRC performers who return after absences from the Caine Lyric stage.

 

“Veteran OLRC performers and an influx of new faces always make the summer an adventure for both audiences and the company,” Johnson said.

 

Among the changes happening at the Caine Lyric Theatre is Scene III, a series of hip, post-performance gatherings to bring OLRC patrons and cast together. An at-the-door cover charge of $10 per event gives audience and cast the chance to socialize while enjoying great food, art, good music and drinks.

 

The first Scene III event is June 12 at Le Nonne Italian Restaurant following the opening performance of The Dresser. Other Scene III nights include Friday, June 27, Thursday, July 10, and Saturday, July 16. To RSVP, or for more details about this or other Scene III events, call (435) 797-1500.

 

Another new feature is a ticketing partnership in collaboration with the Caine School of the Arts ticket office. The OLRC offers patrons a streamlined and positive ticket purchasing experience with helpful staff, easy ticket ordering, either online or through the box office, and more ticket purchasing options.

 

Tickets to OLRC productions are now conveniently available to order online under “Tickets and Passes.” By ordering online, patrons can print tickets at home, pick seats on screen, avoid bulky order forms and order at any time. Order online before June 1 for ticket discounts. Tickets can also be purchased through the Caine Lyric Theatre box office, 28 W. Center, (435) 752-1500, or the Caine School of the Arts box office, Tippetts Art Gallery, Chase Fine Arts Center, Utah State University (approximately 1110 E. 610 North, Logan),  (435) 797-8022.

 

Ticket prices vary based on seating, and discounts are available for youth, seniors and USU faculty, staff and students. For details, call the box offices or visit the OLRC Web site. Flex pass subscriptions are available. Adult, single tickets range from $21-$25, USU faculty-staff and seniors $18-$21, and USU students and youth (6-18) $14-$17. A reduced rate is available for matinee performances.

 

Curtain time for the 2008 season is 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances begin at 2 p.m.

 

The Caine Lyric Box Office opened Monday, May 5, with hours Monday through Saturday, noon to 8 p.m. The Caine School of the Arts box office on the USU campus is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

 

For more information visit the OLRC Web site, e-mail jeremy.gordon@usu.edu or call (435) 797-1500.

 

 

Contact: Jeremy Gordon (435) 797-1500
Source: Old Lyric Repertory Company