— from Doug Bechtel —

This summer the Actors Theater of Orcas Island will present four shows—three as Readers Theater at Random Howse, and a full production at the Grange.

First up is a Readers Theater production of the comedy Burying Aunt Beulah by Joni Hilton. This award-winning play tells what happens when Beulah, the feisty, critical grandma moves in with her daughter. Add in another Grandmother, a ferret running loose and a badly outnumbered husband and mayhem ensues. The cast includes Maura O’Neill as Beulah, along with Gillian Smith, Lesley Liddle, Audrey Neddermann, Freddy Hinkle and Leah Jenson. This play will have performances at 7 pm on June 19 and 20. This play is suitable for all ages.

Coming up in July is another readers theater on July 17 and 18. As soon as we obtain the rights to the play we will announce the specifics.

The Actors Theater is proud to present the first public Readers Theater production of the romantic comedy The Surprise Visit by local playwright Ron Herman. Cynthia has broken off her engagement to Bobby but has been afraid to tell her parents. What happens when her parents make an unexpected visit to help her get ready for the wedding? Lots!! Fortunately, all’s well that end’s well. Join us at 7 pm on Thursday, August 14 and Friday, August 15 for the world premier of this new play.

September will see the Actors Theater moving back to the Grange to present a full production of Love Song by John Kolvenback. Called: “Richly comic and deeply touching.” and “Outstanding” we learn that Beane (played by Zach Knight) is an exile from life—an oddball. Following a burglary on Beane’s apartment, his sister, Joan (Melinda Milligan), and brother-in-law, Harry (Tom Fiscus) are baffled to find her brother blissfully happy and try to unravel the story behind his mysterious new love, Molly (Cara Russell). Some strong language may make this play unsuitable for younger children.

Love Song will have seven performances between September 12 and 28.

Tickets for all performances are $10 and are available at Darvills, on line, at and at the door. Tickets for the performances at Random Howse are also available at Random Howse. For additional information call Doug Bechtel at 317-5601.