HOW TO GO
What: "Shirley Valentine" at the Middletown Lyric Theatre
Where: Middletown Lyric Theatre 1530 Central Ave., Middletown, OH 45944
When: Opened on Thursday and continues Nov. 2-3 and Nov. 9-10. All shows start at 8 p.m.
Cost: $13
Tickets/more info: (513) 425-7140 or www.middletownlyric.org
Everyone has days when they feel they could be doing better. And Shirley Valentine is no different.
The latest play at the Middletown Lyric Theatre is “Shirley Valentine,” the story of an ordinary housewife whose unordinary penchant for talking to her walls, leads her divulge her entire life right to the audience.
“It is about a middle-aged housewife whose children are grown and out of the house, and she is wondering why her life is miserable,” said the director Garry Davidson. “It is a one-women show that deals with the coming of middle age.”
The play looks at how Shirley Valentine struggles with looking back into her past as a young woman who was full of life.
“What brings about the angst is one of her friends has bought her a two-week trip to Greece, to go with one of her lady friends,” said Davidson. “And she struggles with whether she should go or not.”
The play is more of a family affair for Davidson, who has directed numerous play in the past, including “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” His wife, Christine Dye, will be playing the role of Shirley Valentine.
Dye has been performing shows all around the Cincinnati area for years, even winning an award from Citybeat in 2005 for best actress for her role as Shirley Valentine in the play.
“We have a couple kids, and last time (Dye) performed the role of Shirley Valentine they were small and didn’t get to see the play,” said Davidson. “Having our kids involved is a big part for us. Being able to play the part so her daughters could see it, is a big deal for (Dye).”
One of their daughters, Edna, will be taking on the role of assistant director, while their other daughter Jane will be taking care of props backstage.
The two-hour play is heavy in dialogue, said Davidson, but it is Dye’s favorite play and she is sure to nail the role.
“The play will touch every emotion people have,” said Davidson. “She tells you her woes, but the entire time you will be laughing. This is really funny play.”
Davidson said once the curtain opens, he gets to sit back and relax.
“It is really the ladies who will run the show once the curtains open,” said Davidson.
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