A Night at the Theatre

Last night, I attended The Battle of Shallowford, The Little Theatre of Winston-Salem's second entry in their New Horizons Series (staged readings of original or adpated plays by NC authors). The reading was held in the rehearsal hall, and there was a nice sized crowd in attendance. Ed Simpson, the playwright, also attended the reading.

The Battle of Shallowford is an endearing story about what happens when the residents of Shallowford (based on Lewisville, NC) believe Orson Welles' radio broadcast of "War of the Worlds". They grab their pitchforks and hunting rifles, and run out to do battle with the invading Martians and save the world.

David Bowen, who played Burton Mock, and Grace Lineberry, as Ruthie, were wonderful as father and daughter. Jere Dailey was perfectly cast as Ray Sprinkles, as was Jeremy Byrd as Fred Martin. John Schwabe played two very different roles, Dewey Sowers (football hero) and Doodad Jarvis (slow witted), and transitioned well between the two. Stan Berstein, who also "directed" the reading, played Newsome Jarvis, a man of very few words.

Because it is a staged reading with a reduced rehearsal period (one night!) you usually don't see much movement and even less characterization. Two actors deserve a special shout out for this very reason. Mikey Wiseman actually brought to life the very crusty Clunette Campbell. If the audience's reaction was an indication, he was the favorite. Elliot Lerner also breathed life into Lonny Hutchins, a shy teenage dreamer. Both men gave outstanding performances.

The staged reading of The Battle of Shallowford was one night only. But keep checking your local listings. You will definitely want to see this show as a full scale production!