Tater Patch Players’ upcoming show could be described as a “wild ride” compared to the usual comedies staged at this local community playhouse. Exit Laughing, written by Paul Elliot, offers a sweet and funny reminder to live life to the fullest.
Three members of a long-standing bridge club are meeting for their usual game at the home of Con-nie Harland, played by Kathy Caylor. This evening, they are playing for the first time without their fourth member. Mary has passed away, and the ladies have spent the day at the funeral home preparing for tomorrow’s funeral. As the story unfolds, they learn that their departed friend has planned some surprises that make the evening one they will never forget.
September Hoeler plays Leona, a hairdresser who never met a cocktail (or a married man) she didn’t like. Betsy Robbe plays Millie, the group’s slightly dimwitted member, who is particularly upset by the loss of her bridge partner. She simply can’t bear Mary being absent tonight.
The cast is rounded out by Amelia Zerkle, who plays Rachel, Connie’s daughter, and Gabriel McPherson, who plays Bobby Grayson. These two have troubles of their own, and the night’s surprising events help them see each other, and their own lives, in a different light.
Exit Laughing is directed by Phyllis Zerkle, a Tater Patch veteran, who has been in theatre off and on her entire life.
This show is especially meaningful to her, as it is her first opportunity to work with her daughter, Amelia, in a stage production. “I put Amelia on stage at a very young age, hoping we could share that passion as she grew up. It worked, and I have enjoyed every moment of watching her talent and love for the theatre develop. Working with her as an adult is the cherry on top”, says Phyllis.
Amelia echoes those sentiments about working with her Mom: “My greatest pride has been following in my Mother’s footsteps. In high school, I loved how involved she was in our drama department, and how my peers and teachers valued her opinion on our productions. Acting under her direction is a dream come true”.
Many of Tater Patch Players’ most well-known faces have a hand in this show. Elizabeth Mullis serves as assistant director and stage manager. Mary Ann Best designed the set. Eve Sauer is costumer and Alex and Nan Nawrocki provides lights and sound.
Exit Laughing opens on September 13, with Share Night for Pickens County Food Bank on September 12.
The show runs for three weekends. Friday and Saturday night performances are at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Exit Laughing contains some adult content and is recommended for ages 18 and over.
