Opening night is just a few days away, and the members of Old Bluff Theatre Company and the Sampson Arts Council are busily preparing for what everyone is saying will be great show and reception.

Lucy Lockamy directs this new play based on “I Knew 3,000 Lunatics” by Dr. Victor R. Small, which takes place at a southern state mental hospital in the 1930s.

The action begins this Thursday, Sept. 13, when the Arts Council hosts a reception that is open to the public at the Victor R. Small House from 5.30 – 7.30 p.m. On display will be a large collection of Dr. Small memorabilia, as well as a guest appearance from the cast of Dragons in the Path. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be provided.

“Dr. Small led an interesting life, so visitors should enjoy this glimpse into the Smalls’ life, as told through his personal papers, writings, and artwork,” says Arts Council executive director Kara Donatelli.

The curtains rise on the opening night performance the next day, Sept. 14, at 7.30 p.m. at the Sampson Community Theatre. Performances continue on Saturday night, Sept. 15, at 7.30 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 16 at 2.30 p.m.. Tickets are $8 for seniors and students and $10 for adults.

You can buy tickets in advance from the Sampson County Agr-iExpo Center Box Office, 910-592-7200, from the Sampson Arts Council, 596-2533, or online at sampsonarts.net. You can also purchase tickets at the box office the night of. This play is intended for older teenagers and adults, so book your babysitter now.

This play is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources, with additional funding from local arts councils in Cumberland, Moore, New Hanover and Robeson counties.