(Le Mars) — Imagine a family celebration being interrupted by news of a girls death, and then realizing every one in the room had a connection to this girl, none of the others knew about. That’s what you’re walking into when you come to see “An Inspector Calls” by J.B. Priestly at the Postal Playhouse this weekend. It’s the first show of the 50th Anniversary season for this group of players, and those involved are in love with the story they’re getting the opportunity to stage.
Pete Laskie, who has been on stage in multiple productions at LCT (most recently in “See How They Run”), decided he wanted to step into the role of director this time around. He chose the show, gathered the players and started production only to find himself playing a part as well. So, with the help of theatre veteran Danna Schuster as co-director, the cast has had the benefit of two sets of eyes and insight helping them as they prepare for the production.
Tina Laskie also finds herself behind the scenes of “An Inspector Calls” after being front in center in “See How They Run.” Tina has been working hard with others at the theatre to get costuming in place and put finishing touches on the set, which helps transport the audience back into the home of a well-to-do 1912 British family. (Tux credit to Claussen’s Menswear)
The cast of characters includes the Birling family, who are throwing a dinner party to celebrate the engagement of their daughter to Gerald Croft, a wealthy businessman.
The party is interrupted by a mysterious police inspector who comes in questioning the family’s role in the death of a young girl.
Arthur Birling, the father, is being played by George New and his wife, Sybil, by Kimberly Ross. Sheila, the daughter, will be played by Angela Riedeman and her brother, Eric by Pete Laskie. The role of Gerald belongs to Joe Ouradnik, and the Inspector is played by Kenneth Niehus.
All the characters are ushered in by the Birling’s maid, Edna, played by Katie Frerichs.
“An Inspector Calls” by J.B. Priestly opens Friday and runs this weekend and next at the Le Mars Community Theatre Postal Playhouse. Tickets can be purchased by calling or stopping by the box office weekdays from 11-2, or by visiting the website lemarslive.org.
