Photo courtesy of Cape May Stage
The father of literature, William Shakespeare, once wrote, “All the world’s a stage,” in his comedy “As You Like It.” But on a dreary Cape May County day, why not check out the indoor stages of talented local theater companies? When skies aren’t blue, let the latest shows from Cape May’s theater companies impress you.
East Lynne Theater Company
“Ah, Wilderness!”
July 26 through Sept. 2
Daily at 8 p.m.
“The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayam! That’s the best of all! ‘A jug of wine, a loaf of bread, and thou beside me singing in the wilderness,’” says 17-year old Richard, defending his choice of literature to his parents. Richard’s letters to his girlfriend, Muriel, contain quotes from Khayam and Swinburne. Finding these letter offensive, Muriel’s father forbids Richard to see his daughter again. Heartbroken, Richard goes on a bender and meets Belle. Is Richard going to turn into his Uncle Sid, or can he be brought back to his senses? This large-cast play takes place during the July 4th weekend in 1906 in a small Connecticut town.
July 26: After-Show Opening Night Party at Pier House Restaurant; Aug. 4: After-show Q&A.
Tickets are $32 for general admission, $27 for seniors (62+) or disabled and up to three companions, and $17 for full-time students and military. Ages 12 and under are free. East Lynne Theater Company performs at the First Presbyterian Church, 500 Hughes St., Cape May.
For tickets and more information, visit www.eastlynnetheater.org or call (609) 884-5898.
Cape May Stage
“The Gin Game”
Aug. 9 through Sept. 22
Tuesday through Sunday at 8 p.m.
The winner of the Pulitzer Prize uses the card game as a metaphor for life. “The Gin Game” takes place on the porch of a retirement home where irascible Weller Martin meets the prim, self-righteous Fonsia Dosey. Fonsia wins every game and their secrets become weapons used against each other. “The New York Times” called the play “a thoroughly entertaining lesson in the fine art of theatrical finesse. The closest thing the theatre offers to a duel at 10 paces.” It is a funny, intelligent play that will touch your heart even as you laugh at the characters foibles.
Aug. 9: Best Value Preview; Aug. 10: Official Opening Night with Party; Aug. 25: Talk-Back; Sept. 5: Best Value Night; Sept. 12: Pay-What-You-Wish Performance.
Tickets are $40 for adults, $35 for seniors (62+), and $28 for students and active military. Prices may vary by performance. Cape May Stage performs at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse, 405 Lafayette St., Cape May.
For tickets and more information, visit www.capemaystage.org or call the box office at (609) 770-8311.