Hilarious farce offers a timely critique of egotism, entitlement and cult of personality
Easthampton, May 15, 2024 – Easthampton Theater Company announces its upcoming production of The Man Who Came to Dinner, a classic comedy by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman, Directed by Eva Husson-Stockhamer and Produced by Michael O. Budnick, The Man Who Came to Dinner features an impressive array of regional talent that will captivate audiences with clever humor and contemporary relevance.
Set in small-town America during the late 1930s, The Man Who Came to Dinner follows the uproarious misadventures that unfold when the irascible and opinionated radio personality, Sheridan Whiteside, slips on a patch of ice outside a prominent family’s home, and is forced to convalesce in their household. What ensues is a delightful comedy of errors as Whiteside wreaks havoc on the lives of the Stanleys and their staff, leaving chaos and hilarity in his wake.
While The Man Who Came to Dinner is a classic comedy, its themes resonate deeply with current events. In an age marked by the intersection of celebrity culture and public life, the play’s exploration of the consequences of fame and the intrusion of media into private spheres feels more relevant than ever. Additionally, the play offers a sharp critique of egotism and entitlement, reminding audiences of the importance of humility and empathy in our interactions with others.
“The Man Who Came to Dinner is a classic play that speaks to themes that are relevant to this day,” remarked Eva Husson-Stockhamer, the director. “Through its witty dialogue and interesting characters, the play invites audiences to see how fame, friendship and love can be used to create chaos and laughter, ” she added.
Featuring a talented ensemble cast and expansive staging at Williston Theater, Easthampton Theater Company’s production of The Man Who Came to Dinner promises to deliver an evening of laughter, insight, and entertainment for audiences of all ages.
Performance Details:
• June 20-23, 2024
• Time: Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30PM and Sunday at 2PM
• Location: Williston Theater, 18 Payson Avenue, Easthampton, MA
• Tickets: Reserved tickets are available for purchase at easthamptontheater.com.
Walk-in tickets are sold at the door subject to availability.
About Easthampton Theater Company:
Easthampton Theater Company is a production group created by Easthampton and nearby residents to bring quality theater productions and related cultural/educational programming to the city. Its founding board and members are dedicated to growing ETC as a premier theatrical venue and destination for the Valley.
New Relationships, Venue
Easthampton Theater Company continues its rapid growth as part of the vibrant Easthampton arts and culture scene, forging new relationships with Williston-Northampton Academy and The Easthampton Film Festival as well as numerous donors, benefactors and supporters in the business and arts community. This program is also supported in part by the Easthampton Cultural Council, a local agency, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
For tickets and more information, please visit easthamptontheater.com or our facebook page @easthamptontheatercompany or email info@easthamptontheatercompany
CONTACTS: Michael O. Budnick, Producer; Eva Husson- Stockhamer, Director
Cast and Crew
Sheridan Whiteside: Larry Picard
Maggie Cutler: Gilana Chelimsky
Mr. Stanley: Stuart Gamble
Mrs. Stanley: Taylor Raucher
Bert Jefferson: Chris Ferry
Miss Preen: Tracy Grammer
Lorraine Sheldon: Janelle Matrow
Dr. Bradley: Norm Metz
Harriet Stanley: Deb Jacobson
Beverly Carlton: Travis Maider
John: Pedro Gomes
Sarah: Maggie McCally
Richard Stanley: Griffin Ross
June Stanley: Alex Conell
Professor Metz: Michael O. Budnick
Banjo: Chip Roughton
Mrs. Dexter: Priscilla Mollard
Mrs. McCutcheon : Patricia Perlman
Westcott: Frances Welson
Expressman, Sandy : Dillon Brown
Luncheon Guests: Kate Carreiro, Frances Welson
Ensemble: Max Hartshorne, Nathan Medlock, Joe Wilcox
Directed by Eva Husson:Stockhamer
Produced by Michael O. Budnick
Production Team: Jason Rose-Langston, Joe Lessard, Lila Oren:Dahan, Deb Jacobson Chenoa Albertson, Frank Croke, Mo Doran, Benji Marconi