The Villages Lake Miona Theater Group held a sneak preview of its upcoming production, entitled ‘Going, Going, Gone,’ on Friday — a performance that promises to deliver a fun evening of quality local theater. The session gave the actors a chance to perfect their lines and stage logistics, for a smooth debut performance.
In the play — the auctioneers working at a contemporary fundraiser have nefarious plans — to steal a $30,000 diamond necklace which is on the auction block — and switch a cheap ‘paste’ imitation in its place. The plot thickens because characters and circumstances surrounding the auction make the theft very difficult.
The ‘nervous wreck’ of a female fundraising manager keeps interrupting the sinister plans, as does the peripatetic male head chef at the dinner, among others. They unwittingly keep prodding the thieves off track with their hilarious distractions and diversions.
This comedy/mystery play is extra special to the group because it was written by, and is being directed by, one of their own — Sabal Chase Villager, Kay Esposito. In this production, Kay also gets to direct her husband, Dan, who plays one of the key stage roles.
“This is not a murder mystery,” Kai Bulla, also from Sabal Chase, said. “All the actors, stage hands, ushers, ticket distributors and other support people are Villagers, and we do this purely for fun. The play is upbeat. There is no violence. Our aim is to have our audiences leave with a smile on their faces — feeling good about their experience.”
“If someone in The Villages wants to try their hand at being on stage, or if they haven’t acted since high school or college, this is the group to contact,” Kai continued. “Our try-outs are informal. People can read their lines in a cozy setting. We are not intimidating to newcomers, as some auditions can be.”
“We generally work for 8-10 weeks, three times a week, on a new production, which in the theater world is not much time at all, and our plays are well attended. The actors and everyone involved feels gratified at the applause and attention they get from loyal audiences, who compliment them left and right.”
The new work will debut Friday, April 10 and Saturday, May 11, both at 7 p.m. — at the Lake Miona Regional Recreation Room theater; with a 2 p.m. matinee performance to follow on Sunday, April 12.
Proceeds from the performances will go to S.O.S. – Support Our Servicemen — and other local charities. Ticket reservations must be made in advance.
For more information and to reserve seats, contact Kai Bulla between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 352 425-1228. A Villages ID is required, and a $10 donation will be collected for each seat. Good seats are still available — for a pleasant evening of surprisingly good local theater.
