When it comes to theatre, nothing really can beat a good performance onstage. Well, except a double feature and an appearance from the playwright themselves!
Sampson Community College’s acting class will be putting on a double feature theatrical performance on Dec. 2 at the Warren Student Center at 6:30 p.m. The performance will be on two plays: “The Worst Fairy Tale Ever” and “Country-Ella.” Dr. Linda Jewell Carr is working together with Sampson Community College for the production of the performance.
“The Worst Fairy Tale Ever,” written by Playwright Todd Wallinger is a comedy play that plays off of the tropes of fairy tale tropes and turns them into something comedic. “Country-Ella,” written by Playwright Wes Cannon does something a little similar. The play reimagines the classic story of Cinderella in a new way, as instead of glass slippers and ballrooms, Cinderella meets country boots and hoe-downs.
In addition to the “Country-Ella” performance, the playwright will be in the audience. At the end of the play, Cannon will host a Q&A.
“Come hear from a playwright himself, whether it’s somebody who’s just wanting to be a writer or somebody who enjoys theatrical productions,” Carr said. “It’s a cool opportunity and I think it’s awesome that he’s coming. I couldn’t tell you how many shows I’ve directed over my career, and I’ve never had the opportunity to have one of the playwrights come.”
The performance length in total for both shows is about an hour, as both shows are relatively quick-paced.
“They’re both short shows, then right after this follows the question and answer with Cannon,” Carr explained.
The process to put together the double performance took place over the course of the semester.
“We have an acting class this semester,” Carr said. “They selected through several scripts and then picked the shows they wanted to do. The most exciting thing about the evening is just how fun it’s been working with these nine students.”
Cannon graduated from Greenville University in Greenville, Illinois back in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in English and a double minor in theatre and religion/philosophy. He has worked with many theatres in St. Louis, Missouri, such as St. Louis Shakespeare, Mustardseed, StrayDog, Act Inc. Kirkwood, and the West End Players Guild.
The rights to put on the performance were granted to the college by Pioneer Drama Service.