A political farce centering around the accidental death of a senator opens Friday, Aug. 18, at the Cumberland County Playhouse in Crossville, Tenn.
"Lying in State" was written by the late David Hyer, who spent more than 40 years working in governmental affairs with the savings and loan and petroleum industries.
In the show, Senator Ed has died in a ridiculous, self-inflicted accident. And as luck would have it, word of his demise (and some good PR) has made him a national hero.
On the day of the funeral, local political party leaders are frantically looking for someone to fill his senate seat. His ex-wife is looking for a bugler to play for his funeral. Buttons, the semi-exotic dancer, and a host of other zany characters are looking for love, votes, the right casket and a giant purple squirrel named Mel.
This laugh-out-loud show mixes love, politics, outlandish situations and outrageous characters in a fast-paced comedy.
"It's easy to poke fun at politicians," says director Donald Fann. "But the best political comedies allow us to laugh at the games politicians play, regardless of party, and remind us that we have more in common than not."
The cast of "Lying in State" includes Daniel Black, DeAnna Etchison, Ross Griffin, Britt Hancock, Patty Payne, Jason Ross and Weslie Webster.
"Lying in State" is rated PG, and will run through Oct. 6.
Tickets may be reserved by calling 931-484-5000 or online at www.ccplayhouse.com.
If you go
› What: “Lying in State”› Where: Cumberland County Playhouse, 212 Tennessee Ave., Crossville, Tenn.› When: Multiple shows scheduled, Aug. 18-Oct.6› Admission: $14, $25, $27› For more information: 931-484-5000