(Rome Little Theatre media release):
When the world shut down in March of 2020, Rome Little Theatre had just begun rehearsals for its production of “Ken Ludwig’s Leading Ladies.” Eighteen months later, the cast returns to present the long-awaited farce October 1-10 at the DeSoto Theater in downtown Rome.
The production is directed by Chris Parker and produced by Alison Karch. “I’ve been excited about this production for quite some time,” said Parker. “We looked at “Leading Ladies” a few years ago, but didn’t decide to stage it until the 2019-20 season. Then Covid happened, and everything was put on hold. After all this time, I’m very excited that we are here, now, ready to get this show to the people.”
In the show, two Shakespearean actors, Jack and Leo, find themselves so down on their luck that they are reduced to performing “Scenes from Shakespeare” on the Moose Lodge circuit in Pennsylvania. When they hear that an older woman in York, Pennsylvania is about to die and leave her fortune to her long lost English nephews, they resolve to pass themselves off as her relatives and get the cash. The trouble is, when they get to York, they learn that the relatives aren’t nephews, but nieces. Hijinks and romantic entanglements follow as “Some Like it Hot” meets “Twelfth Night” in this screwball farce.
“I think the audience is going to love the feel of this play. It’s a solid script by Ken Ludwig, who is one of my favorite playwrights. Add to that this ensemble, and it’s a great night of theatre. I’ve seen it now more than anyone, and they’ve still got me laughing at every rehearsal,” said Parker. “I’m so proud to be a part of Rome Little Theatre. I’ve had the chance to work with people with professional experience at multiple levels in all areas of theatre. And we do it for fun! But I’m really proud of what we bring to the community and the partnerships we have. This really is COMMUNITY theatre. This is theatre by our community, for our community.”
Rome Little Theatre’s production of “Ken Ludwig’s Leading Ladies” is presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals, Inc. The production is supported in part by a gift from Georgia Power – Plant Bowen.
For the comfort and safety of audiences and volunteers, one seat will be kept empty between parties, and extra seating is available in the balcony for guests desiring more space. Masks are strongly encouraged for all guests regardless of vaccination status.
“Ken Ludwig’s Leading Ladies” runs Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30p.m., and Sundays at 2:30p.m. October 1-10 at the DeSoto Theatre, 530 Broad St., Rome, GA 30161. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors/students and can be purchased by calling the box office at 706-295-7171, Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or by visiting the theatre’s website atwww.romelittletheatre.com.