Mt. Vernon Register-News

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February 3, 2009

‘Noises Off’ coming to Sesser Opera House

The Opera House Co. will present Michael Frayn's comic masterpiece, “Noises Off.” Produced internationally for over 20 years to great acclaim, “Noises Off” is a comedic look at the inner workings of the most inept theatre group ever assembled, according to information. Performances of “Noises Off” in the Historic Sesser Opera House are set for Feb. 12 through 14 at 7 p.m. with one Sunday matinee performance at 2 p.m.. on Feb. 15. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $8 seniors and $5 for children under 12.

Noises Off follows the production of the British romance comedy, “Nothing On,” as performed by a group of decidedly clueless actors, information states. The play begins in the final hours before the play opens as the under-rehearsed actors try to keep it together for their grand opening. The actors include the fading diva Dotty Otley (Aisha Mitchell-Sesser), the dimwitted Frederick Fellowes (Aaron Hopkins-West Frankfort), the inarticulate actor Garry Lejeune (Jay Meagher-Jeff), the ever-upbeat Belinda Blair (Lauren Whiting-Mt.Vernon), the not-all-there Brooke Ashton (Amanda Grakewicz-West Frankfort) and the perpetually inebriated Selsdon Mowbray (Brad Benjamin, Christopher). Under the direction of the equally clueless Lloyd Dallas (James Ford-Benton) the play begins to fall apart...literally. Doors refuse to open or close, props disappear and insanity ensues...all in the first act. In the second act, the play is in the middle of its run and everything has began to crumble, much to the despair of the stage manager Poppy and the technical director Tim (Tyler Polley-Christopher). This act takes place backstage as the actors suffer from mental breakdowns and romantic entanglements which result in attempted murder and fast-paced calamity from all angles. In the final act, the audience sees the full production of “Nothing On” as the actors now despise each other and the show is in disarray. Lines are forgotten, props fly through windows and actors fall down stairs.

The Historic Opera House is located in downtown Sesser on Illinois State Route 154. Reservations and more information on this and future Opera House events are available by calling 625-5322 or visiting www.brownpapertickets.com, search “Sesser.” The Opera House Café will also be offering a special Valentine’s Day dinner, information states. For menu selections and reservations, please call 625-6300.

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