Photo Flash: First Look at THE GIFT at Walnut Street Theatre

Walnut Street Theatre's 2016-2017 Independence Studio on 3 season continues with the story behind the making of a great novel in THE GIFT. Written by Will Stutts and directed by Greg Wood, the production opens tonight, February 23, and continues through March 19 in the Walnut's Independence Studio on 3. BroadwayWorld has a first look at the cast in action below!

THE GIFT takes place on a Southern porch in a small town in Alabama, where two friends are together again. Buddy is an internationally renowned author, embarking on an adventurous new idea for his next novel. He cannot do it alone. Nelle is a talented writer, secure in the quiet safety of home, unable to bring her story to life. They have each other and they have a gift. Fact and fiction may lie beneath the truth. What is the secret of the Mockingbird? When these two writers join forces, each becomes whole and THE GIFT finds a place in history for them both.

THE GIFT, written by Will Stutts, had its world premiere in the Walnut Street Theatre's Independence Studio on 3 in 1998. The story is inspired by Harper Lee and Truman Capote's legendary friendship and creative connection.

Playwright Will Stutts has written, directed and performed in many shows in Walnut's Studio 3 theatre. His work includes world premieres of Barrymore, Frank Lloyd Wright, Kemble vs. Butler, Edwin Forrest, Eye of the Storm, Summons to Sheffield and his highly entertaining Will Stutts' Tallulah.

Greg Wood returns to the Independence Studio on 3 to direct THE GIFT. Previous directing credits at the Walnut include the world premieres of Mickle Street and The Prescott Method. An award-winning actor for over 30 years, Wood has been seen on stage at the Walnut in numerous productions, including Harvey, And Then There Were None, Private Lives, Other Desert Cities, God of Carnage and Amadeus. His film and television credits include The Sixth Sense, Signs, The Happening and several seasons of Law and Order. Rocco Praderio will join Wood as Assistant Director.

The Walnut welcomes back Susan Riley Stevens in the role of Nelle. Nelle is Harper Lee's given first name. Stevens was last seen in Harvey on the Walnut's Mainstage, with additional credits including The Prescott Method, God of Carnage and A Streetcar Named Desire. She has also worked extensively on local stages. Warren Kelley (Bookends) returns to the Walnut as Buddy, which is Truman Capote's childhood nickname. His work on regional stages across the country includes Atticus in To Kill a Mockingbird, King Arthur in Spamalot and Vanya in Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.

The homely patio in the heart of Southern Alabama will be created by Set Designer AnDrew Thompson (The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, Proof). Thompson will be joined by Costume Designer Susan Benitez (A Christmas Carol), Lighting Designer Charles S. Reece (Becoming Dr. Ruth, Mickle Street) and Sound Designer John Kolbinski (Last of the Red hot Lovers, Always... Patsy Cline).

For tickets and more information, visit walnutstreettheatre.org.