Lake Oconee News – October 6, 2023
The Lake Country Players (LCP) are busy preparing for four evenings of laughter and suspense when they take the stage Nov. 2-5 with their latest production, “Arsenic and Old Lace,” at Festival Hall in downtown Greensboro.
LCP is known for its exceptional local talent and commitment to delivering top-notch performances. The play, written by Joseph Kessel- ring, debuted in 1941 on Broadway and led to a film adaptation starring Cary Grant three years later. Now, more than 80 years after its debut, Arsenic and Old Lace” continues to entertain and enthrall audiences and remains a favorite of theater groups throughout the country.
Directed by Mo Brower and assisted by Anenaca Simpson, the Lake Country Players’ rendition of “Arsenic and Old Lace” is set to deliver a delightful blend of humor, suspense and eccentricity. The play revolves around the Brewster family, specifically two charming elderly sisters, Abby and Martha Brewster, who have a rather macabre hobby of poisoning lonely old men with homemade elderberry wine. Their nephew and theater critic, Mortimer Brewster, eventually stumbles upon this dark secret, setting off a hilarious chain of events.
Lake Country Players has assembled a stellar cast, with local favorites and seasoned actors taking on the iconic roles. Debbie McCown and Rusty Faulk will portray the lovable yet sinister sisters, while veteran actor Michael Homeier will bring to life the role of Mortimer Brewster. Rounding out the cast are Steve Atchley as Teddy, Art Shutt as Jonathan, Michael Alexander as Einstein, Lu Feldman as Elaine, Carol Grant as Brophy, Anenaca Simpson as Klein, Drace Langford as Dr. Harper, Ed Kercado as O’Hara and William Thompson as Rooney.
“I am thrilled to be directing ‘Arsenic and Old Lace.’ This play is a perfect blend of dark humor and suspense, and our cast has been working tirelessly to bring out the nuances of these eccentric characters,” Brower said. “It’s a true delight to be a part of this production and to be working with such a talented cast.”
LCP’s dedication to bringing quality theater bringing quality theater to the community is evident in the attention to detail given to set design, detail given to set design, costumes, and props. The stage will transport The stage will transport the audience back to the 1940s, immersing them in the world of the Brewster family’s quirky Brooklyn home.
Tickets for “Arsenic and Old Lace” are now available for purchase online at lakecountryplayers.org or by calling the box office at 762-233-0039. Be sure to reserve seats early, as this production is expected to sell out. Whether you’re a long-time fan of this classic comedy or new to the world of theater, Lake Country Players’ production of “Arsenic and Old Lace” promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Prepare for a night filled with laughter and suspense amid the eccentricities of the Brewster family, right here in Lake Country.