Players season opener: 'Whales of August'

The Springfield Community Players open their ninety third summer theatre season with “The Whales of August” by David Berry. Production dates are May 31, June 1, and June 7 - 8.

The play features Molly Ferris as Libby Strong, 86, who is blind and becoming increasingly reclusive, and Irene Ramen as Sarah Webber, 75, Libby’s sister and an incurable romantic. Ferris and Ramen, both of Chester, portray deep characters who find themselves having become old. The play is a beautiful story of reclaiming yourself even at the end of your days. Set in 1954, the moving, elegiac play is directed by Ira Emerson, Jr. It looks at one day in the life of two elderly sisters in their picturesque Maine cottage as they reflect on memories and mortality. One sister (Sarah) is anxious to see one more time the whales that represent their lost youth. The other sister (Libby) seems not to care because “memories last forever.”

The minor spats of the two sisters, which do not last long, make their relationship fascinating. One dispute about installing a picture window is symbolic of Libby not wanting to try new things and of Sarah eager to enjoy what’s left of her life. As Libby becomes less abrasive while Sarah regains her patience and determination, the two sisters some to terms with their differences.

Supporting actors include Nancy Searles of Springfield as Tisha, 78, Sarah’s friend; Tom Field, of Springfield, as Nicholas Maranov, 79, a Russian immigrant fisherman; and Donald Gray, of Springfield, as Joshua Brackett, a neighbor and handyman.

Play times are 7:30 at the Players’ Studio on South Street in Springfield. Call (802)885-4098 for reservations. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $12 for seniors and students.

http://www.springfieldcommunityplayers.org/