(August 12, 2022–Chatham, NY) Ten-time Tony nominated “The Full Monty” returns to the Mac-Haydn for three weeks this summer after its fan-favorite debut at the Chatham theatre in 2014. The highly-anticipated production runs August 18 – September 4.
This grin and bare-it comedy tells the story of six average-looking, unemployed steelworkers on the verge of a bold plan to get themselves out of debt, and make amends with those they love. When the men spy their wives going crazy over a group of male strippers, they decide to make some quick cash by forming their own act – a team of male strippers with ‘real’ bodies. As they conquer their fears, self-consciousness and prejudices, the men come to discover that they’re stronger as a group, and the strength that they find in each other gives them the individual courage to “let it go.”
After earning a Berkshire Theatre Award nomination for Outstanding Production of a Musical for the 2021 production of “Man of La Mancha,” Todd L. Underwood returns to Chatham as director. Underwood’s past Mac-Haydn credits include “The Drowsy Chaperone” (2015) and “Gypsy” (2013). He currently serves as the Associate Artistic Director at Ivoryton Playhouse in Connecticut.
Underwood is joined by “Urinetown” Choreographer Elizabeth McGuire, Music Director Emily Croome and Assistant Music Director Eric Shorey. The production will feature scenic design by Kevin Gleason, the Mac-Haydn’s Technical Director, along with lighting design by Andrew Gmoser, costume design by Angela Carstensen, sound design by Nick Caburis, hair and makeup design by Caitlin Maxwell, and props design by David Tankersley, who will also assist Gleason.
Xander James, who starred as Georg in last season’s production of “She Loves Me,” plays Jerry. James’ Mac-Haydn debut last season marked his return from a 10-year hiatus from acting while he pursued a career as a professional musician in New York City. James’ past acting roles include Henry in “Next to Normal,” Chip in “Spelling Bee,” Jud in “Oklahoma” and Frankie in “Forever Plaid.”
Mac-Haydn favorite Gabe Belyeu is Harold, along with Kylan Ross as Malcolm and Andrew Burton Kelley as Ethan. Tezz Yancey and Dean Marino make their Mac-Haydn debuts as Noah “Horse” Simmons and Dave, respectively.
Starring as Jeanette, Monica Wemitt returns to the Mac-Haydn stage for the first time in three years. While not on stage, Wemitt has served as the theatre’s COVID Compliance Manager since 2021. Holly Lauren Dayton continues her resident company season at the Mac as Pam, while Julia Hajjar returns as Georgie and Erin Spears Ledford returns as Vicki.
“The Full Monty” features a book by Terrence McNally and music and lyrics by David Yazbek.
Vaccination and masks are required for all patrons. For tickets, please visit www.machaydntheatre.org or call the box office at (518) 392-9292.
About the Mac-Haydn Theatre
Founded in 1969, the Mac-Haydn Theatre strives to present innovative, diverse and professional musical theatre productions to the residents of Columbia County and beyond. We aim to cultivate young talent for careers in theatre and seek to provide a supportive environment for the creation of new musical theatre works.