Deborah Dorman
Theater at the Ranch has selected its next production, for Jan. 30 through Feb. 2, 2025. The group will present “Calendar Girls” by Tim Firth, a play based on his movie script of the same name. Based on a true story, this is a heartwarming comedy about a group of older women who decide that the only way to raise money to replace some uncomfortable furniture in a hospital waiting room is by posing nude for a calendar they can sell. At its heart, this play is about friendship, loyalty, and how the media spotlight can affect relationships. While it is set in the UK, the actors will not use British accents, because, as the playwright says in the script, the real women in the story came from all over the UK, with many accents, and none of that is critical to the story. There will be three evening performances, including a dinner theater option, and one matinee, performed in the Hermosa Ballroom.
Auditions in November
Auditions for the cast of nine women and three men will take place in early November. No preparation is needed for auditioning, and no parts are precast. Rehearsals run November through January, with breaks for the holidays. Those seriously interested should keep their January calendars open (i.e., no week-long vacations). Experience is not required, although certainly welcome! Most of the actors in the group’s two prior productions had little or no acting experience before being cast. Rehearsals are generally two to three times a week, increasing close to production dates, so a strong commitment is required. The rewards are great, however. Working on a play will make you feel like part of a family, will stimulate your mind (and body!), allow for you to be creative in new ways, provide a wonderful feeling of accomplishment (hard to find in retirement), and it’s just fun!
Backstage Roles Available
Many backstage roles need to be filled as well, such as props, makeup, sets, stage managing, lights, sound, public relations, tickets, house management, costumes, and more! The production will be produced and directed by Deborah Dorman, and she is seeking an Assistant to the Director. If you are interested in participating backstage, please contact her at [email protected].
Theater at the Ranch is looking into online ticketing for this production, which will make it easier to obtain your tickets. The group will also have an in-person option for tickets. Past productions have come close to selling out, with approximately 600 tickets sold, in advance and some at the door. Tickets go on sale in December for “Calendar Girls.” If you wish to be added to the Theater at the Ranch email list, send your name and email to [email protected]. Notices for auditions and ticket sales will be sent out in advance by email, in the Mid-Week Scoop, on Nextdoor, and on Facebook.
Don’t ask how the “nude” scenes for the calendar will be done—that will remain a secret from all but the cast until showtime!