This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Longmont Theatre Company (LTC) does it again with another comedic
production. The show playing at The Longmont Theatre Company is Exit
Laughing, by Paul Elliot, will run February 28- March 8 with shows on
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
This comedic production has a small cast of five. Mandy Lahey plays Connie,
Pam Strahan as Leona, Michelle Jeffres as Millie, and Marcus Neppl as Bobby have
all returned to the LTC stage from various plays in the company’s past. Brianna
Sackrison, who plays Rachel, is making her debut on the LTC stage as a young
woman searching for an exciting future that seems just out of reach.
The play opens with mother/daughter Connie and Rachel. Rachel is upset by being
stood up by a boy as Connie prepares for her weekly bridge night with her posse
of friends.
Events of the play take place on the heels of the passing of the group’s
good friend Mary. Each lady, Leona, Millie, and Connie, have grown too
comfortable and bored with a nonexciting lifestyle.
Guided by inspiration from their recently departed friend, the ladies enjoy the
most exciting night of bridge in history.
The character of Mary was quite compelling as she took the stage. Her presence,
while quiet, guided the events of the entire evening.
My favorite character was Millie. Actress Michelle Jeffres was aptly
animated for the character and kept me laughing throughout the show, even when
she wasn’t speaking.
As is typical, The Longmont Theatre Company works with Longtucky Spirits to
create a special drink. For this show the drink is called Mary’s Southern
Belle. Additionally, the company is introducing a mocktail option for this
drink.
LTC’s President, Faye Lamb began the dress rehearsal with a rehearsal of her
own. She was practicing her opening speech for the duration of the show, which
is dedicated to recently departed long-time volunteer, Tracy Cravens.
Cravens passed in January 2020 and is dearly missed by the community and LTC.
This play is special because Cravens lived her life full of laugher and joy, wishing
the best for all she encountered. Exit Laughing was the perfect way to
remember Cravens’ life-loving spirit.
Lamb spoke about how Cravens didn’t hate or complain about anything, “except
the theatre seats.” LTC has begun fundraising efforts to replace the theatre’s
seats in memory of Cravens. Thus far the company has raised $16,640 of the
$32,000 goal. There are donation boxes located in the lobby of theatre as well
as a gofundme page. Additionally, checks can be sent to LTC, PO Box 573,
Longmont, Co, 80502, with the memo Tracy’s seats.
For more information and tickets visit Longmont Theatre Company.
