Staff Reports
WEATHERFORD — WILLOW PARK – Intrique. Mystery. Hope. Vengeance. Mercy. Timeless topics to describe man’s constant struggle for justice and right.
Originally penned by the French writer Alexandre Dumas as the ageless adventure tale of "The Count of Monte Cristo," the story has been updated and modernized in the Willow Park Dinner Players’ stage production of "Fade to Black." Local playwrights Thomas Fletcher and Casey Walton have collaborated to bring a new twist on an old tale.
Just as the original story was a descriptive story regarding the tumultuous historical events in 19th century France, this modernized story reflects on today’s military conflicts and political intrigue around the globe. Current-day themes and topics are brought to life in the stage play.
Cast members include Thomas Fletcher as Edmund Dantes, Sarah Maxey as Mercedes, Matt Rowe as Fredrick, and Casey Walton as Daniel Gieges and Jean Caro Saladin. Further, Justin Kiehl as Stanley Bridges, Stephanie Bartee as Carol Bridges, and Hayden Siegel as Sisyphis. Rounding out the cast in additional roles as extras are Heather Miller, Katy Sorber, Alexandra Boyd-Rogers, and Danny Potter. Stage manager for the show is Heather Miller. Crew members are Greg Shark and Kim Dobbs.
Directors for the production are playwrights Fletcher and Walton. Each has been seen on the Willow Park Dinner Players stage in "Dracula." They have been involved in area theater productions for several years. This script marks the debut of their playwright skills.
"We are excited to bring this specially adapted script to our stage," states board president Tim Jarrell. "It’s always thrilling when a new theater production comes to life for the first time. We’re very honored that the playwrights have come to our organization for the debut of their work."
"Fade to Black" will be presented in dinner theater format Saturday, Feb. 6, at Los Vaqueros West Banquet Hall in Willow Park. The evening’s entertainment will begin when the doors open at 6:30 p.m. A buffet dinner will be served at 7 p.m., and the production is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and advance reservations are recommended. Please be advised the topic matter may be unsuitable for very young children.
Tickets are available for $25 per person, and $15 per child (12 and under) by contacting the Weatherford Stage Performers hotline at (817) 594-5596, or e-mail at WeatherfordStage@ont.com.
The production is presented by Willow Park Dinner Players, a member of the Weatherford Stage Performers, a 501(c)3 organization. Willow Park Dinner Players is funded in part by the City of Willow Park, and our 2009-2010 Media Sponsor is First Financial Bank.
