Set in 1953, Moon Over Buffalo tells the story of thespian couple George and Charlotte Hay (played by veteran actors James Dracy and Elyse Williams), who have taken their faded productions of Cyrano de Bergerac and Noël Coward’s Private Lives on the road. While playing way-way-way off Broadway (Buffalo, N.Y.), their dreams of making it big are re-ignited when they learn that Oscar-winning film director, Frank Capra, is coming to the town to audition them for his next film.
Ludwig’s farce captures the rich pandemonium in a small theatre company’s attempt to stage a show and has added merciless complications for heightened comedic effect. George and Charlotte are in the midst of a fantastic fight when opportunity knocks. Forced to deal with jealousies, mistaken identities, drunkenness and amusing misunderstandings, they make every effort to salvage their production and stay true to that old stage mantra: the show must go on!
The play is directed by Anne Lambert, a veteran who has directed Davidson Community Players favorites Talley’s Folly, The Nerd, Rumours and most recently, It’s a Wonderful Life. An accomplished actress herself, she was seen most recently in Davidson Community Players’ Working (2008).
“Ken Ludwig has a great way with words,” says Artistic Director Melissa Ohlman-Roberge. “With this cast of area pros — many of whom have graced our stage numerous times — the production promises to be one or our finest - and certainly one of our funniest!”
In addition to area favorites Dracy and Williams, the cast also includes DCP veterans Gloria King, Jim Esposito, Aby Pagan, Philip Robertson and Bill Mazzella, and welcomes newcomer Olivia Dalzell.
Matt Merrell, Davidson Community Players’ newly appointed executive director, is particularly excited about the show. “What a great show for summer relaxation and pure entertainment,” says Merrell. “If you like to laugh, you will love Moon Over Buffalo.”
The 2011 Season Sponsor of Davidson Community Players is The McIntosh Law Firm. The production is underwritten, in part by Aquesta Bank, with additional support from Lake Norman Currents magazine, WFAE 90.7 FM and MI-Connection.
Curtain time is 8 p.m. July 21-23 and 28-30, and 2 p.m. July 24-31. The play is recommended for ages 12 and older. Tickets cost $22 for adults, $20 for seniors 65 and older and $12 for students 20 and younger. Call the DCP Box Office at 704-892-7953.
