Amelia Community Theatre Comedy Opens 44th Season

Amelia Community Theatre (ACT) has been staging artistic performances on Amelia Island since 1981. It kicks off its 44th Season on October 10 with the heartwarming George Brant comedy "Into the Breeches!" A celebration is planned for opening night — a 1940s-themed preshow at 6:30 p.m. Theatergoers will enjoy food and drink reminiscent of the WWII years. Lindy Hop dance instructions will be available in the lobby.

"Into the Breeches!" is set in Providence, Rhode Island 1942 at the Oberon Play House, a locally renowned theatre. All the men, usually the directors and actors, are overseas, fighting in WWII.

The theater plans to close, but Maggie, who assisted her director husband for 18 seasons, is determined to "go on with the show." She decided to produce Shakespeare's Henry IV and V with an all-female cast. It is an exciting twist, as Shakespeare used all-male casts in his productions.

Maggie faces obstacles and challenges in assembling her cast, including starting societal issues about race and gender. Just as King Henry V urges his soldiers to move "once more unto the breach," Maggie moves her cast forward daily with grace and humor.

ACT's cast of eight includes Rae Colley, Bruce Gruber, Brandon Hester, Kathy Jones, Brandily Oliphant, Julia Taylor, Haley Vonnoh, and Terri Witkosky.

Director Linda McClane says, "This play is funny and sweet, and the story shows us the positive things that happen when people work together for a common goal. Listening to early 1940s music has been a treat.   But this show is also about change. Life is changing because of the war, and that change is reflected in this newly created family, brought together by the war and a love of theatre."

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on October 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, and 19 and 2 p.m. on October 13 and 20. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students.

Amelia Community Theatre is located at 207 Cedar St.

Tickets can be purchased at Amelia Community Theatre or by calling 904-251-6749. The box office is open 11 a.m. Wednesday through Friday and 90 minutes before curtain.