By Lawton Vallely
For the Opelika
Observer
The Opelika Theatre Company will hold their first production of 2018, “The Miss Firecracker Contest,” with three shows March 9-10 at the Southside Center for the Arts.
After success with OTC’s previous production of “Steel Magnolias” last June, the troupe decided to stick to their roots and perform another classic Southern comedy.
“I expect the audience to just come and have a good time and enjoy southern humor because it’s very southern and very funny,” said Theatre Director Dabney Chapman. “I hope that everybody who leaves here after seeing the show will leave in a good mood and be happy and realize that their community theater especially is just fabulous.”
Written by playwright Beth Henley, “The Miss Firecracker Contest” is a comedy set in the small town of Brookhaven, Mississippi, and revolves around protagonist Carnelle, a 24-year-old orphan taken in by her Aunt Ronelle. During the play, the audience witnesses the life and the obstacles Carnelle must face in her venture for the title of Miss Firecracker.
“My favorite (character) is Carnelle, because I don’t think we could have gotten a better Carnelle,” said Alysa Richards, who plays Tessy. “She is just so dramatic out there. I just think she is the best person.”
Chapman said she believes casting will be the key to success for this production.
“I was blessed by the casting gods. I really was,” said Chapman. “I have actually directed this show before with a different theater group years ago and I have been involved in theater all my life.”
Tickets for the shows are available for online purchase for $10 at squareup.com. For more information on the play or the OTC, contact OTC Executive Artist Director Marty Moore at 334-663-4480, or visit www.opelikatheatrecompnay.com. Show times will be 7 p.m. March 9 and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. March 10.