CONTRIBUTED BY AACT
AUBURN —
Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) is starting the engine on its 19th season with a unique show: the all-American musical “Hands on a Hardbody.” The show will open at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center on Aug. 5 and run for two weekends, closing on Aug. 14.
Based on the real-life documentary by the same name, this musical centers on a days-long endurance contest in which one person will win a Nissan Hardbody pickup truck by keeping a hand on it the longest. Each contestant has their own vision of the American dream that winning the truck can bring them. A new lease on life is so close they can touch it, but if you let go, you lose. This modern musical is driven by various musical styles with tuneful melodies and soulful lyrics by Amanda Green and the band Phish’s lead guitarist, Trey Anastasio.
“This is one of the most unique and complex shows that Auburn Area Community Theatre has brought to the stage,” said Carter deShazo, AACT board member and cast member of the show.
“We had picked this show and were planning auditions before the pandemic hit, and we have waited three years to bring it to life,” added Artistic Director Andrea Holliday. “This show has a lot of heart. You’ll laugh, you might cry, and we definitely think you will leave with a smile on your face and a song in your head.”
The cast of 16 stage performers, the directors, the choreographer and all tech crew are local volunteer talent. The cast and crew offered thanks in part to Autosport Bodyworks of Opelika for the addition of a real Nissan Hardbody on stage, dubbing it the “17th cast member.”
Performances will take place at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center on 222 E. Drake Ave. in Auburn on Aug. 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 at 7 p.m., and Aug. 7 and 14 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Saturday, Aug. 6, offers a “Pay What You Can” night, with ticket prices in any amount serving as donations. Call 334-246-1084 or visit www.auburnact.org for ticket purchases and more information. Email info@auburnact.org for group rate information.
AACT is a non-profit volunteer organization. AACT offers multiple opportunities to get involved and depends on the time and energy of many wonderful people from within the community. There’s something for everyone. Please visit www.auburnact.org to find the volunteer interest form or email info@auburnact.org to get involved. Follow AuburnACT on Facebook or keep up to date at www.AuburnACT.org for the latest information on auditions, volunteer opportunities, tickets and more.