Sometimes the cast and crew of plays just have too much fun. Leading Ladies, the story of two out of work, very much male Shakespearian actors, takes a turn when they decide to fool people into thinking they are the heirs, Max and Steve, to a large fortune. Upon arriving in the town where their subterfuge will take place, they discover oops! Max and Steve are really short for Maxine and Stephanie. What to do? Use their acting skills to impersonate women, of course!
Well, things don’t exactly turn out as they plan. And the actors, some facing the challenges of being men in heels and bosoms, or roller skates, and others the challenge of acting opposite them, are having quite a time. Angela Miloro-Hansen (Meg), usually directing or teaching at Geauga Lyric Theater, is enjoying being on stage with her husband Randy Hansen (Jack/Stephanie) and working with director Mark Cipra, who most recently directed Spamalot and The Music Man at GLTG. “Mark has such a unique, careful and thorough approach to directing; articulate and kind and really takes his time with each actor. I always learn so much working with him. And getting to see my husband deal with heels and bras is a new thing!”
Grace Butcher (Aunt Florence), retired college professor and GLTG alum is enjoying her part, because she gets to play a cranky old lady and doesn’t have too many lines, which leaves her time to visit her horse. And it’s worth it because, “The show is absolutely hilarious. The premise is ridiculous and non-stop funny.” Newcomer Steve Ramos (Duncan) was encouraged by his family to try something new, and nailed the audition for the part of a minister. “I didn’t realize it would be this much fun!”
Director Mark Cipra agrees on the fun part. “I’d really like to be playing each of the characters- so I have to hold back consciously and let the actors do their jobs. It’s a really crowd-pleasing script with delightful performances from eight terrifically talented actors.”
Come see the culmination of their work in Leading Ladies, running March 10th – 26th at Geauga Lyric Theater, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. The historic Geauga Theater is located on the beautiful Chardon square at 101 Water Street. Tickets are now on sale for $15.00 Adults, $13.00 Students/Seniors, and $8.00 for children 12 and under. They can be purchased through the box office at 440-286-2255 or online at Geauga Lyric Theater. Special thanks to our marquee sponsor for Leading Ladies, GEM Electric!
Pictured In Photo: Evan Graham (Leo/Maxine) and Randy Hansen (Jack/Stephanie) appraise their transformations in Leading Ladies at Geauga Theater in March.
