Shout Out: The Parkway Playhouse

Ahhh, the grand old Parkway Playhouse. It's a fine place full of fabulous history, memories, and (maybe) the ghosts of actors past.

(These actors are all alive and well! That's me, in my turn as Mrs. Mayor in "Seussical" and Mary Katherine Smith-Gall as Gertrude. And look! There's Britt Kaufmann in a rare turn onstage as opposed to behind the scenes...even if it was just to take this photo.)

The Parkway Playhouse has been a staple in my life since moving to North Carolina. I am incredibly fortunate to have become a part of it, in many ways. As an organization, the Parkway Playhouse has a commitment to fostering new works and debuting world premieres.  There have been many writers lucky enough to see their works performed for the first time on this stage, something quite rare and extraordinary.  And because of this noble goal, Britt was asked to write a play for this season, which is both daunting and thrilling. As a result, "Between the Tackles" is going to see the light of day in all of seven days. (SEVEN DAYS? Gulp.)

Of course, the Parkway Playhouse is just the historic, enchanting building where the magic happens. There are plenty of fine folks who tirelessly put hours of time into making sure the lights go up on each production. And there will be shout-outs to some of those folks individually.

So, to the Board of Directors, the volunteers, the many fine local businesses and individuals who donate each year, the patrons, the actors, and all those who have come into the darkness to emerge richer in spirit two hours later, we salute you. Without each of these, there would only be a building and a stage...which is pretty lonely all by itself.

Now, for the fun stuff. You know how all great DVD/Blu-Ray releases have "Easter Eggs" hidden in the special features or within the film itself? Little tidbits or inside jokes to reward the most ardent fans?

Well, ladies and gentlemen, "Between the Tackles" does as well. There are small, minute references to some of last season's works, including:
 "The Miracle Worker"
 "An Uncivil Union: The Battle of Burnsville"
"1776"
 "Seussical"
 "Robin Hood: The Legend of Sherwood" and
 "Dracula."

You just have to be paying attention to find them!

It all adds up to another way for us, Britt and Steph, to say "thanks" to The Parkway Playhouse for this personal opportunity. And for the many riches it brings this community and all those visitors through its doors each year.