Jumping ahead with auditions

It may seem early for Halloween displays at the local drug store, but auditions are already on deck for Christmas productions. September 28-30, Albany Civic Theater hold auditions for its December play, "A Tuna Christmas."

A sequel to the Greater Tuna, a 2001 ACT play, two actors play 22 roles filling the shoes of Tuna, Texas' zaniest citizens. Playing multiple personalities requires many skills, including quick costume changes. Man number one plays Arles Struvie, Didi Snavely, Petey Fisk, Jody Bumiller, Stanley Bumiller, Charlene Bumille, Vera Carp, Dixie Deberry, Farley Burkhalter, Helen Bedd and Garland Poteet. Man number two must bring to life Thurston Wheelis, Elmer Watkins, Bertha Bumiller, Leonard Childers, R.R. Snavely, Pearl Burras, Sheriff Givens, R.R. Snavely, Ike Thompson, Inita Goodwin, Phoebe Burkhalter, and Joe Bob Lipsey. Set in the lone-star state, a southern accent is also required.

"A Tuna Christmas" is the ACT directorial debut of Mat Genuser, who has directed and choreographed various shows in Salem including "Bye Bye Birdie," "Godspell," and "The Music Man."

For more information, contact director Genuser at hoggadogga@gmail.com or at 503-559-3819.

Giving audiences more of what they love

Much like Oliver Twist, if tickets sales are any indication, audiences want some more. That is more live musical theatre. Gallery Theatre presents Lionel Bart's "Oliver" based on the classic Dickens novel.

From September 11 to October 3, Twist and the other workhouse inhabitants appear to theatre goers in McMinnville. Director Phil Darling brings the play to fruition with musical numbers such as "Food, Glorious Food," and "As Long As He Needs Me." In contrast however, the play opens with minimalist set design. Only a bare table set center stage flanked by young workhouse boys open the first act.

Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30, with Sunday matinees starting at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for students or seniors 62 and over. For more information contact the theater at 503.472-2227 or visit www.gallerytheater.org.