Director talks challenges, joys of "Incorruptible"

“Incorruptible”, the irreverent comedy play by Michael Hollinger, presents some unique challenges to a theatre.

First, it is a historical piece, so all of the costumes, props, and the set have to look like they belong in the year 1250 A.D.

Second, it requires a cast that can be both funny and at times dramatic, not to mention the juggling, singing, dancing, musical instrument playing, and all of the physical comedy needed as well!

The final challenge, and possibly the toughest, is that “Incorruptible” is not a very well known show. Even those well versed in theatre are often left “without a prayer” in knowing anything about it. Nevertheless, it is certainly a show that should be seen.

It may not be very well known (yet), but "Incorruptible" is one of the funniest scripts I have ever read. It is often difficult to read a script and fully envision the final show, especially comedies. It is rare to laugh aloud when you are sitting by yourself reading a new script, but with “Incorruptible”, I was laughing by the middle of the first page and continued until the end. I have had many people who have read the script share a similar experience.

The show centers around a monastery in France. The relics of Sainte Foy (also known as Saint Faith) are on display on the altar, but haven't inspired a miracle in 13 years. Due to this, the people have stopped visiting the saint and the church, and the resident monks are having difficulty making ends meet, let alone being able to provide food and shelter to the needy. The monks reason that they can breathe life back into their dying church by convincing the Pope to visit. However, things prove more difficult than expected, and the monks begin considering other methods to save the church, possibly even considering some less idealistic strategies.

We have managed to assemble an outstanding production staff and cast for this production. Not only are they tackling all of the previously mentioned challenges, they are doing so in creative and beautiful ways. Everyone's contributions have truly been a blessing and have made my role as a director easier as well as just a lot more fun. Not only is everyone skilled in their particular area of expertise, but we have also gathered a very collaborative and harmonious group of individuals. This makes it more enjoyable for everyone and it benefits the show when everything is designed to fit together.

We know that many of our audiences will be experiencing “Incorruptible” for the very first time. We are very much looking forward to sharing that experience with them. There are fun twists and turns in the show that make for an entertaining theatrical experience. The hard work and talent of the cast and crew have made a fantastic script come to life. We hope that you will come to Playhouse 111 and enjoy “Incorruptible” with us!

Performances of "Incorruptible" are September 16 through October 9, 2011 at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale Street in downtown Wheaton. Shows are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm. "Incorruptible" is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

Wheaton Drama's 2011-2012 season will also include "On Golden Pond", "Bad Seed", "Black Comedy", and "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels".

For tickets and information, please visit http://www.wheatondrama.org, or call 630-260-1820.