Magnolias are not just a pretty flower. For Walker Bay Theater it was “Steel Magnolias,” and it was an outstanding successful run of the Robert Harling-written play.
Over 450 live stage play fans resulted in six complete sell-outs over an eight-performance, 10-day run.
Exceptional performances by six talented actresses created a “welcome and overwhelming demand for tickets not witnessed in recent history.”
According to Dave Holk,artistic director and board president, readings and rehearsals began in early spring and intensified to daily rehearsals in late July in anticipation of the Aug. 8 opening date.
Production Director Joe Hart said “they just seemed to come like answers to prayer,” when asked how he found such a talented and dedicated cast. “One by one they appeared with hopes of getting individual roles of their choosing.”
For two of the actresses it was the first time on the stage, with limited past experience for the other four. The cast was comprised of ladies from Laporte, Longville and Park Rapids, as well as two recent WHA School graduates.
“Rehearsals were fun and lively, with natural talent in abundance,” Hart said.
“We are extremely proud of this production and of the performances of each of the cast members,” added Holk. “As word of mouth about the play spread, we were getting calls from as far as the Twin Cities, Fargo and Duluth wanting tickets. Demand quickly outpaced availability and resulted in some callers unable to secure tickets.”
Walker Bay Theater (WBT) is now preparing for the balance of the 2024 season with several opportunities on the horizon. Opening Aug. 30 for a six-performance schedule of “Love Letters,” written by A.R. Gurney, Fridays and Saturday at 7 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m.
“Love Letters” is a “reading” of the letters exchanged between Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner beginning in 1937 and continuing for 50-plus years. Priscilla Smith and Holk reprise their roles from 2020.
Late September will feature the return to the Walker Bay Theater stage of Kelly Grussendorf as Patsy Cline. A new production, with new songs added and a new script by Holk, will include an appearance by local country music entertainers Ryan and Jo Pels.
This new format will be loaded with humorous exchanges between Kelly and Dave, Ryan and Jo, with Jessie Funk as Lena, of Ole and Lena fame.
A spooky, fun and entertaining production of “Frankenstein Slept Here” will hit the stage for three performances Oct. 25 and 26 at 7 p.m., and 27 at 3 p.m.
You say you have seen this before? Well not quite the same, as with permission, the play has been embellished and expanded to add even more laughs and plot re-directs.
As always, further information, reservations and more can be secured by calling 218-547-4044 (messages are checked and returned daily), or call Holk at 218-820-1603 or email dbholk@arvig.net
Ticket prices are adults $20, and seniors and students $15.
WBT is also on the lookout for additional cast members, backstage help and more volunteers.
Walker Bay Theater is a 501c3 non-profit, operated by an all volunteer board of directors. If you have an interest, we would be happy to discuss and find a volunteer opportunity spot.
The annual Kids Christmas Party is Nov. 30 starting at 11 a.m. at the theater, complete with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves and live reindeer. This event is sponsored by WBT, Leech Lake Area Chamber, Walker Sons of the American Legion and Super One Foods. It’s food, fun and family all in one spot - along with free bingo.
Local News
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