Harvey delightful comedy at the Barn Theater

The Barn Theater’s presentation of “Harvey,” a feel good comedy-melodrama that the whole family will enjoy.

The Barn Theater’s presentation of “Harvey,” a feel good comedy-melodrama that the whole family will enjoy.

An excellent cast brings the famous story of a “pooka” to life on Friday, April 6, at 7:30 p.m, with performances the first three weekends in April, including two Sunday matinees.

The story is a cross between Forrest Gump and a comedy-melodrama and was written by Mary Chase in 1950, with a lot of imagination and “psychology” thrown in.

The playwright uses well-known Los Angeles locales in her story, and the audience will enjoy some local references. There are mistaken identities, or mistaken personalities in the story, and you’ll be rooting for each side before you know it. “Harvey” will have you smiling, laughing, and even a bit “concerned” by the conclusion of this “timeless” play.

Performances are the first three weekends in April — 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees April 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. The Sunday brunch matinee is April 15, at 12:30 p.m. and costs $15 per person. Reservations are required by Wednesday, April 11.

“Harvey” is directed by Bob Merzoian and produced by Nicki Edwards, with Chris Shepard in the wonderful lead role of Elwood P. Dowd, with Sharon Hall as his impulsive sister Veta Louise Simmons, and Ralph Bourne playing a thoughtful Dr. Chumley.

Katie Blevins is Myrtle Mae Simmons, Veta’s cosseted daughter, and Connor Nielsen as Dr. Sanderson, with Vince Black playing Duane Wilson the sneaky orderly and Kallyista Tyler as Nurse Kelly. Dick Jameson plays a dignified Judge Gaffney with Bob Merzoian, Shirley Powers, Nicki Edwards and Pam Bourne in cameo roles.

Costumes and scenery are outstanding, with help from a teenage backstage crew.

“Harvey” is a heartwarming tale, and Dowd’s courtly manners will remind you of a favorite old uncle, or someone from a different era when being polite was “de rigueur.” You’ll not want to miss this family-friendly comedy.

Ticket prices are $15 Adults, $10 seniors and students, $5 kids under 12.

Call or text 310-7046 for ticket and brunch reservations or visit www.barntheater.porterville.com.

Dr. Chumley, played by Ralph Bourne, right, points out the hat holes are for Harvey as Dr. Sanderson, played by Connor Nielsen listens during the rehearsal of “Harvey” begins April 6 and runs through April 21 at Barn Theater in Porterville.