RANGELEY – A cast of 30 will perform the hit musical “Chicago” in Rangeley July 12 through 15.
Co-director Sonja Johnson and dance teacher Pamela Ellis recognized the existence of a pool of talented performers in Rangeley and wanted to provide a venue to showcase their talents. They formed ACME productions and provided the startup funds for the production.
“Our goal is to keep theater perpetuated in the area,” said Johnson.
Ranging in age from 16 to 65, the cast has been rehearsing since mid-May. Performers committed to rehearsing three to four nights a week for three months, said Johnson.
“I can’t believe how good it is. It’s astounding,” she said.
“It’s community theater at its best,” agreed Ellis in a telephone interview Thursday.
Despite adult content – adultery, murder, alcohol – producers made an effort to tone down the production’s language. They also limited the age of cast members to 10th grade or older. They rate the two-hour production PG-13.
The musical is set in the Roaring ’20s. It is about two jazz dancers imprisoned for murder and their lawyer, who manipulates the press and jury to get the pair acquitted.
Leading the cast is Dan Simonds playing attorney Billy Flynn. Pamela Ellis and Lindsay Ellis play the two murderesses and dancers, Velma Kelly and Roxy Hart.
The theater seats 125 and ticket sales have been brisk, according to Johnson. The show was between 65 to 70 percent sold out as of Thursday, she said.
PULL OUT 1:
People behind the scenes:
Producer: Sherry Connally
Co-Director: Sonja Johnson
Co-Director: Susan Hamilton
Choreographer: Pamela Ellis
Vocal coach: Barbara Meserve
Lights: Larry Sherrer
Costumes: Tammy Wentworth
Pianist: Amanda Ferris
PULL OUT 2:
GO AND DO
what: ACME production of Chicago
when: 7 p.m. July 12 to 15
where: Former People’s Choice Restaurant, Main Street, Rangeley
how: Tickets range from $12 to $20 and may be reserved by calling Rangeley dispatch at 864-2162
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