Dealing with family can get pretty complicated. That’s the lesson in “Over the River and Through the Woods,” the touching and heartfelt comedy-drama that runs from Nov. 14-17 and 21-23 at the Hanover Little Theatre (HLT).
The show will be performed in memory of Ron Schloyer, who died on Oct. 13. A well-known member of the visual and performing arts scene locally, Schloyer directed many shows at HLT, including “Over the River and Through the Woods” in 2002. He also served on the theatre’s board of directors.
Performances are 8 p.m. on Nov. 14-16 and 21-23 with a 2 p.m. matinee on Nov. 17. Tickets are $12 with a $1 discount for students and seniors. Hanover Little Theatre offers group discounts for office parties, civic groups or just a group of friends looking for a night at the theatre. Groups from 10-19 receive a 10 percent discount, while groups of 20 or more qualify for a 20 percent discount.
Tickets are available online now or by calling 637-5297. Information is also available by e-mailing info@hanoverlittletheatre.com
In the show, directed by Jim Watson and written by Joe DiPietro, Nick can’t escape his Italian-American family even after his parents move to Florida. A single guy living in New Jersey, he sees both sets of his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. When he snags his dream job in Seattle, he dreads telling his grandparents. It turns out that Nick had good reason to worry.
After Nick shares the news, the grandparents begin a series of schemes to keep him around. Their plans eventually result in a dinner invitation to the lovely – and single – Caitlin O’Hare, who they hope will change his mind.
Beau Bowden makes his HLT debut as Nick surrounded by faces familiar to HLT audiences. The grandparents are played by Don Aumen and Phyllis Reinsfelder as Frank and Aida with Mike Baker and Ann Watson as Nunzio and Emma. Anna Heckert will take the stage as Caitlin.
After the Opening Night performance on Nov. 14, the theatre will host a free reception at the playhouse sponsored by Rose’s Pizza and Restaurant in McSherrystown. The audience can mingle with the cast and crew after the performance and enjoy Italian snacks.
