A roadside diner in a small Midwestern town sets the stage for a fascinating night in the hit play “Bus Stop” written by William Inge and presented by Genesius Theatre. The show opens Wednesday, April 27, and runs April 28, 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 1 at 3 p.m.
There’s no telling what to expect when a snowstorm leaves a bus load of passengers stranded at a 1950s diner in the middle of nowhere. One of the travelers is Cherie, a nightclub chanteuse in a sparkling gown and a seedy fur-trimmed jacket, who is being pursued by a 21 year old cowboy with a ranch of his own and the romantic methods of an unusually headstrong bull. Cherie initially resists his advances but as the night wears on, it’s hard to say what will happen next. By morning Cherie, Bo and the rest of the crew will discover how much their lives are truly intertwined. “Bus Stop” was a hit on Broadway and was adapted to film in 1956, with Marilyn Monroe as Cherie.
The play is being directed by local veteran Tina Angstadt, who is also designing the costumes for the production. Angstadt began directing as an undergraduate at Millersville College and at Lancaster’s Market District Theatre. With a B.S. in education and a theatre minor, she became the resident costumer designer at Surflight Summer Theatre in Beach Haven, New Jersey where she married the stage manager, Bill. In Berks, she has produced and directed productions for the Fall Festival of the Arts, Reading Symphony Orchestra’s KinderKonzerts, Alvernia College, Reading Civic Theatre, Ephrata Playhouse and Genesius Theatre.
In addition, Brian Trupp is the assistant director, with sets by John Bigos and Betty Girstner, and scenic art by Marjory Ewald. Stephanie DeLillo is the stage manager.
The cast includes: Elma Duckworth, a waitress played by Julia Bachman; Grace Hoylard, owner of the bus stop diner played by Kathleen Godwin; Will Masters, local sheriff played by Apollo D. Loose; Cherie, a “chanteuse” played by Emily Janssen; Dr. Gerald Lyman, a former college professor played by Daniel K. Smith; Carl, a bus driver played by Randy Miller; Virgil Blessing, a ranch hand played by Mark Christy; and Bo Decker, a young rancher and cowboy played by Joseph Lovello.
Genesius Theatre is located 153 North 10th Street, in Reading. For tickets to “Bus Stop” visit www.genesiusdifference.org or call 610-373-9500. Please note that credit card and Tix.com fees apply.
The play is rated PG-13. Genesius Theatre is handicapped accessible and there is free parking (limited spaces available) next to the theater. For more information, call the theater at 610-371-8151.
