By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
What happens when a holiday show becomes the only hope to keep a theater alive? Hays Community Theatre explores that high-stakes tale in its newest production.
Cheryl Glassman, writer and director, said the original play is a “show within a show” that follows a cast working under pressure to keep their theater from closing.
"It follows the pursuits of the Gretchen, the director, and the entire cast," Glassman said. "Characters provide comedy, sentimental structure and share candid life moments."
Tickets are available online and at the door for $10, with attendees asked to bring a nonperishable food item to support local food banks through the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 2 p.m. Saturday at 121 E. Eighth St.
A bake sale at the theater will also raise funds for the family of Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heinmann, who was recently killed in the line of duty, and to the Lohrmeyer family, who recently lost their home in a fire.
Glassman said the production includes 26 performers, including 13 children, some of whom are first-time actors.
Glassman said she drew inspiration from her own theater experience and the many personalities she has worked with behind the scenes while creating productions.
"There's an interesting woman named Marvel, portrayed by Wendy Richmeier, and no one likes her at all. She thinks she's better than the rest of the cast," Glassman said. "I have dealt with people like that in real life before."
The cast includes Claire Nickerson as Gretchen, Gene Stramel as Miles, Kelsey Robben as Mary, Adam Conkey as Marty and Jeremy McGuire as Joe.
Glassman said the stage will feature 3D backdrop elements, including a built-in couch and Christmas tree. While props will be limited to keep attention on the actors, audiences can expect festive costumes throughout the show.
Glassman said she hopes audiences leave with a reminder to look beyond difficult times.
"It's OK to be frustrated, but being frustrated doesn't mean you have to stay there. You never really know what's going on around you until you open up and look at the big picture... seeing past yourself and knowing that there is a lot more to life than meets the eye," she said.
Glassman said the production will also feature some original songs she wrote and seven dancers from Spotlight Studios dance school in Hays. Auditions began in October with rehearsals starting after Halloween.
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