ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS to Make KC Area Debut at OCTA

Olathe Civic Theatre Association (OCTA) continues its 2016-2017 season with the Kansas City area premiere of the British comedy One Man, Two Guvnors by Richard Bean and directed by Rick Bumgardner, beginning October 14.

In this madcap farce set in 1963, Francis Henshall, recently fired from his skiffle band, finds himself working for both a gangster and a criminal in hiding, both of whom are linked in a web of schemes, extortions, and romantic associations. On top of his ravenous, fish-and-chips appetite, he must juggle working two jobs and keep his own identities straight. To prevent discovery, Francis must do everything he can to keep his two "guv'nors" apart. James Corden received a Tony Award in 2012 for his portrayal of Francis.

Adding to the fun is a live band composed of two guitars, a bass, and a washboard. When asked about his favorite aspects of the show, director Rick Bumgardner shared "I love the incorporation of the skiffle band which bridges the scenes with music and provides further opportunities to relate to the audience during a time that is normally incredibly technical." Bumgardner also noted that the show is in the style of commedia dell'arte and is based on Carlo Goldoni's 1784 popular Italian comedy The Servant of Two Masters.

This is Bumgardner's debut at OCTA as director and he relishes the chance to use the intimate stage for the "quick and quirky" physical and witty comedy. "The effort that [the board] demonstrates in making this community theatre survive moved me to want to help them and the theatre in any way that I could." To that end, he hopes audiences will feel that "they experience a show that compares to some of the very best they've ever seen." When not directing or operating Morning Glory Antiques, Inc., he teaches acting and enjoys the craft of the theatre.

Starring in the cast of One Man, Two Guvnors are Peter Leondedis (Francis Henshall), David Martin (Stanley Stubbers), Joshua Gleeson (Alfie), Lindsay Roland (Rachel Crabbe), Ellie DeShon (Dolly), Chuck Duer (Charlie Clench), Kim Hentges (Pauline Clench), Zachary Weaver (Alan Dangle), Alecia Stultz (Harriet Dangle), Larry Goodman (Lloyd Boateng), Liz Kerlin (Careth/Sides), Roberta Wilkes (Christine Patterson), TEd Collins (Policeman/Clarence), and Richard J. Burt (Policeman/Taxi Driver).

The skiffle band features Drew Ackelson (Guitar), Jay Kassen (Guitar), Denny Jones (Bass), and Bill Dunn (Washboard).

Bumgardner is joined by a dedicated production staff to create the world of this over-the-top show including: Betsy Sexton (stage manager), Terry Erbe (set designer), Chuck Cline (lighting designer), Julie Ewing (costumes), Camille Lerch (light operator), and Shari Wassergord-Johnson (properties).

One Man, Two Guvnors runs three weekends, October 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30 with Friday and Saturday night shows at 8 pm and Sunday matinees at 2 pm. To purchase tickets, visit www.olathetheatre.org. Subscribers can make reservations by calling the theatre reservation hotline at 913-782-2990 or by emailing tickets@olathetheatre.org. This show is appropriate for ages 13 and above.

Olathe Civic Theatre Association is a 501c3 organization producing theatre in Olathe since 1974. Performing in the Buddy Rogers Family Playhouse, OCTA produces five high-quality, engaging, and thought-provoking theatre productions a year. Through the generosity of volunteers, season ticket holders, donors, and the City of Olathe, OCTA has grown into one of the most progressive community theaters in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

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