By Morgan Bryce
Editor
Audiences can expect a good dose of Texas-sized humor during the Opelika Theatre Company’s three performances of “Daddy’s Dyin’ … Who’s Got the Will?” June 14 and 15 at the Southside Center for the Performing Arts.
Written by American filmmaker and playwright Del Shores, the play has been a standard in theaters across the country and was adapted into a feature-length film in 1990 starring award-winning actor Beau Bridges and Beverly D’Angelo, who portrayed Ellen Griswold in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Set in a small Texas town, the play’s story is centered on the impending death of Buford “Daddy” Turnover, which prompts family members to assemble for a reunion of sorts. Will clashes and personal interests of the soon-to-be-drafted will get in the way, or will the family find a way to look past their differences and stand united through challenging circumstances?
Numerous theater critics have praised the play’s timeless storytelling and wit, including the Hollywood Reporter and L.A. Times.
“Without becoming ponderous, losing a sense of humor or pandering to time-worn cliches about Texans or Texas drawls, the story … shares many elements of a good summer novel – it’s a fast, delicious, easy read with funny moments, tense moments, touching moments, and characters you care about.”
“(The play) is a well-written piece of mainstream theatre that’s consistently funny and occasionally touching.”
Advance tickets cost $10 and are available online at www.opelikatheatrecompany.com and day-of-tickets will cost $15.
Showtimes are set for 7 p.m. on Friday, and a doubleheader on Saturday with shows at 2 and 7 p.m.
For more information, call 334-663-2593, like and follow the group’s social media page or visit their website. The venue is located at 1103 Glenn St.