PACE — The Panhandle Community Theatre’s production of “Life, Love & Laughter” debuts Thursday, and Director Bonnie Marks shares what audiences can expect from the PCT’s latest installment.
What can the audience expect from ‘Life, Love & Laughter?’
“Definitely lots of laughs! I think there is something for everyone!”
How has the cast responded to performing a series of one-acts?
“This cast has been amazing, and are always ready to jump in and lend a hand. I've worked with most of the cast and crew numerous times over the years, and couldn't be more pleased to work with the ones I've just met. When conflicts came up for a couple of actors who had to drop out, I actually had volunteers to take on additional roles. You will see several actors portraying multiple roles. Most of them started out with one … making costumes, coming up with ideas for props, filling in for other actors and bringing these characters to life … this is a dedicated, talented and fun group of actors.”
What’s it like working with the material of Rick Ready and Andy Wilkinson?
“Rick and Andy are both local and have been involved with our theatre for well over a decade. I actually played the lead in Rick Ready's ‘Soulmate Central’ twice and co-directed the third show. Needless to say, I'm a fan! This is Andy's first production of his work, and it some of the wittiest comedy I've seen on local stages. One scene last night actually made me cry laughing! It has been my pleasure to work with these extremely talented writers, and I am proud to call them my friends.”
Tell me a little about your background with the PCT.
“I started in 2001, when we were known as the Imogene Little Theatre under the Santa Rosa Historical Society. I have performed in nearly every capacity for this theatre as an actor, director, back stage, tech and even served as president and secretary on the board.”
How many productions have you directed?
“This is my second production as director. My directorial debut was with ‘The Housekeeper,’ starring two current cast members: Gail Ready and Bob Monson. The directorial purpose on this (current) production has been to be extremely flexible! We started out with 14 cast members (we're down to 12 by double/triple casting), all with full-time jobs or other time-consuming life activities and commitments. Scheduling has been interesting, but the upside is many of the cast had not seen the other scenes until this week, so it's been a lot of laughs watching their reactions as they watch their castmates perform.”
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: Panhandle Community Theatre’s production of “Life, Love & Laughter”
WHEN: May 12-15 and 19-22. Showtimes on Thursdays through Saturdays begin at 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays
WHERE: 4646 Woodbine Road, Pace
COST: Tickets are $12 on Thursdays and $15 on other days. Call 221-7599 for reservations
ONLINE: www.panhandlecommunitytheatre.com
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: 5 Questions for Bonnie Marks, director of 'Life, Love & Laughter'