Jeremy Wilkins and Megan Hollenbeck in the Bald Soprano.
Ensemble Theatre of Chattanooga will open Eugene Ionesco’s comedy The Bald Soprano on Friday, Oct. 18, as part of their 2013 season and an attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Record for longest dramatic performance.
The production will run through Sunday, Oct. 27, with first weekend performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.; second weekend performance starting on Friday at 7:30 and lasting through early Sunday morning. All performances will be held at the theatre's space inside Eastgate Town Center at 5600 Brainerd Road.
“We are always trying to up the ante with our programming, our offerings and the way we approach presenting things for our community," said Director John Thomas Cecil. "I just thought how awesome would it be for Chattanooga to get put on another International map for achievement. We have achieved so many things in such a short time because of our persistence and dedication to goal. Beating a world record seems like our kind of challenge. Not to mention how much fun doing an absurd play for over 30 hours will be.”
Actor Sanford Knox Jr. mentions regarding the record attempt, “It’s a little daunting, but I’m up for the challenge. I’ve always dreamed of getting into Guinness World Records and I’m so excited to be trying this with such a great cast and crew.”
The Bald Soprano features the Smiths, a traditional English couple who have invited another couple, the Martins, over for dinner. They are joined later by the Smiths' maid, Mary, and the local fire chief, who is also Mary's lover. The two families engage in meaningless banter, telling stories and relating nonsensical poems.
ETC's production of The Bald Soprano features Janni Ball, Zach DeSutter, Christy Gallo, Megan Hollenbeck, Sanford Knox Jr., and Jeremy Wilkins. Casey Keelen stage manages. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/images/cleardot.gif
Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for students with a valid student ID. They can be purchased online at http://www.ensembletheatreofchattanooga.com, by phone at 987-5141, or at the door beginning one hour before each performance. Discounted tickets are available for groups of 10 or more. Doors open 30 minutes before show time. Free parking is available at Eastgate Town Center.