Harvey May 1, 2009

The Chippewa Theater Guild, formerly known as the Sault Community Theater, will present the play “Harvey” written by Mary Chase. This wonderful and timeless comedy has been delighting audiences for decades. The story revolves around the uncompromisingly pleasant character of Elwood P. Dowd, portrayed with gentle conviction by newcomer John Gilbert, and his best friend Harvey, an imaginary six-and-a-half-foot rabbit. Problems arise when Elwood’s sister, Veta, played by another newcomer, Jane Merrell, decides to have him committed to a sanitarium to spare her daughter, Myrtle Mae, played by yet another newcomer, Alicia Askwith, from future embarrassment. Nothing goes as planned upon arrival at the sanitarium, where seasoned veteran, Jim Taylor, takes on the role of Dr. Chumley, the head of psychiatry. Through a case of mistaken delusions, the doctors commit the wrong person. When the truth comes out, the search is on for Elwood and his invisible companion. During which, Harvey begins to have a strange influence on the doctors and Veta alike. In the end, Veta must choose whether or not to accept Elwood and Harvey as individuals with the freedom to choose their own unique path through life. Rounding out the talented cast are Lee Ann Pearson, Ralph Shiplett, Kevin White, Rebecca Kluck, Lee Ann Izzard, C.J. and Will Fowler.

This delightful story for all ages is directed by Pirie Kaufman of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, in his directorial debut. Pire is a thirty year veteran of theatre. His vision and experience have provided the guidance the cast required to perform their very diverse roles. Constant support has been supplied by the stage manager, Arlene Proulx, and assistant stage manager, Wren Alarie, also of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

Show times are April 30th and May 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th at 7:30pm along with two matinees on May 3rd & 10th at 2:00pm. Performances are located at the Guild Theater, 700 Eureka St. in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Ticket prices are $12.00 for adults, $10.00 for seniors and $8.00 for students. Tickets are available at the door or call Colleen at 906-632-7090 for reservations. Tickets may also be purchased on our website. The box office opens at 7:00 pm for nighttime performances and 1:30 pm for matinee performances. Please visit our website at www.chippewatheaterguild.com for further details.