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Judson Theatre presents 'Everybody Loves Opal' for fall play

Judson University Theatre Department will present John Patrick's 1961 play, "Everybody Loves Opal," at 7 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, Oct. 25-28, in the Thulin Auditorium in Thompson Hall, 1151 N. State St. (Route 31) in Elgin.

In the play, three con artists set out to take advantage of the kind-hearted and reclusive Opal, who lives in an old mansion at the end of town.

Although "Everybody Loves Opal" provides lots of laughs, the show has a powerful theme of unconditional love. Three of the characters have a malicious intent toward Opal, but are won over by her unrelenting love and acceptance. As Opal says, "I couldn't hate nobody if I tried and nobody hates me. If you love everybody no matter what - they gotta love you back. It ain't never failed me yet."

The show's director, Professor Kimberly Schmidt, saw this as an apt time to bring such a play to the Judson stage.

"In the current climate of division in our nation, the message of this production is one we need to hear," she said. "We can all learn a lot from Opal."

"'Everybody Loves Opal' will provide patrons with an enjoyable evening of fun and laughter and challenge them to look at those around them with an open heart," she said

Cast members include: Catherine Anderson as Opal; Megan Jo Havena as Gloria; Daniel Flage as Brad; Tiger Khokunthod as Sol; Sarah Reynolds as Doctor; and Jonathan Claassen as Officer.

Tickets are $10, $5 for students, $8 for seniors and groups of 10 or more. Tickets also can be ordered by leaving a message at (847) 628-2625 or sending an email to jutheatretickets@judsonu.edu.

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