Ocoee Theatre opens canine comedy this weekend

Kasey Torbett, cast in the title role of Sylvia the dog, finds a resting place on the laps of director Trevis Orr and cast members Susan Guentensberger and Jeff Guentensberger, from left. / Ocoee Theatre contributed photo
Kasey Torbett, cast in the title role of Sylvia the dog, finds a resting place on the laps of director Trevis Orr and cast members Susan Guentensberger and Jeff Guentensberger, from left. / Ocoee Theatre contributed photo

Ocoee Theatre will present "Sylvia," a comedy that starred Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker on Broadway, in five performances beginning Friday, March 15. The play will be presented in The Venue Creekside in Cleveland, Tennessee.

If you go

› What: “Sylvia”› Where: The Venue Creekside, 527 W. Inman St., Cleveland, Tennessee› When: 7:30 p.m. March 15-16 and 23; 2:30 p.m. March 17 and 24› Admission: $15, $12 for students and senior adults› For more information: 423-472-8896

Written by A.R. Gurney, the comedy takes place in New York City, where a burned-out executive finds a lovable dog in the park and decides to bring her home to his apartment. His furry friend is just what's needed to help him escape from the misery of his job. However, his wife, who is still busy pursuing her career, doesn't feel the same affection for the canine and isn't ready to roll out the welcome mat.

Trevis Orr will direct the play. The play stars Kasey Torbett, Susan Guentensberger and Jeff Guentensberger.

The show has a uniqueness that stretches the abilities of the actors. Whether it's portraying a "lapradoodle" or taking on several roles of different genders, the cast takes the audience down the road of imagination with such ease. For example, Jeff Guentensberger portrays three completely different characters and Torbett, who plays the dog, skillfully blends human characteristics with canine to pull the audience into her pet world.

"There is so much hidden talent in our community. I'm just thankful that Ocoee Theatre Company gives artists a place to share their acting skills and provides this much-needed cultural entertainment," says the director.

"If you've got a dog, you'll enjoy reminiscing about the day you found that very special pet and brought her home. And if you haven't done so, you've probably wondered what it would be like to bring one home from the pound. You won't want to miss this creative, funny, refreshing night of entertainment," says Candy Tapper, president of Ocoee Theatre Company.

Tickets can be purchased on Facebook, www.ocoeetheatreguild.com or at The Venue Creekside one hour before each performance.

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