Albright Theatre's 'Over the Tavern' to open April 22
The Albright Theatre Company in Batavia is proud to present "Over the Tavern" by Tom Dudzick, a show that is sure to put a smile on your face. It is a warm and hilarious look at family, faith and growing up in the 1950s.
Twelve-year-old Rudy Pazinski is a smart kid, with an even smarter mouth, who is starting to question his parents, rules and the Roman Catholic Church. When Rudy goes up against the ruler-wielding Sister Clarissa and announces that instead of being confirmed he would rather shop around for a more "fun" religion, prepare yourself for a little fire and brimstone and a lot of laughs.
"It's not just a show about living in the 1950s as a Catholic family, it's a slice of life that many people can relate to, highlighting the trials and tribulations of the average family with all its joys and pitfalls," said director Jeff Pripusich. "It's a wonderful story with many touching and humorous moments. I hope audiences can see a part of themselves or their family and friends in one or more of the characters."
Jonah Harder of Montgomery plays the precocious Rudy. Landon Keller of Batavia, Nathan Reilly of Glen Ellyn, Abby Kennedy of Batavia, Jami Johnson of Geneva, and Jim Oberg of Oswego are the other members of the Pazinski family, and Dorothy Attermeyer of Hinsdale plays Sister Clarissa. This production of "Over the Tavern" is supported by assistant director and stage manager Cara Schuster of Batavia and producer Jeannine Collins of Carol Stream.
The North Aurora resident is excited to be making his directorial debut. "I felt a real connection to the script," Pripusich said. "I grew up in the Catholic faith and had a few Sister Clarissas at my grade school. As my wonderful cast brings these characters to life, I feel nothing but joy in seeing the details come together. I can't wait for people to see this show."
The production is rated PG. Performance times are at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, April 22 to May 7, at the theater, located on the third floor of the Batavia Government Center, 100 N. Island Ave., Batavia. Tickets are $15, $12 for students/seniors. Reservations are highly recommended; call (630) 406-8838. For information, visit www.albrighttheatre.com.