‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ to fly

OAKVILLE — Phoenix Stage Company presents “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” with performances through July 28.

In the play, made famous first by Kirk Douglas on Broadway in 1963 and then by Jack Nicholson on film in 1975, a charming rogue contrives to serve a short sentence in an airy mental institution rather in a prison. This, he learns, was a mistake. He clashes with the head nurse, a fierce martinet.

Quickly, he takes over the yard and accomplishes what the medical profession has been unable to do for12 years; he makes a presumed deaf and dumb Indian talk. He leads others out of introversion much to the head nurse's displeasure.

Directed by Lucia Dressel, the cast includes Phoenix veteran performers; Ian Diedrich, Coleen Renzullo, Joshua Luszczak, Chris Evans, Kristin Moresi, Laura Sturges-Cortez, Michael Cassidy, Dan Porri and Rob Richnavsky. Making their Phoenix Stage debuts are; Chris SimoKinzer, Devon Richtmeyer, Brendan Green, Robert Kwalick and Roberto Perez.

This production contains strong adult themes and situations and is not suitable for young audiences.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $22 for general admission, and $19 for teachers, students, seniors and military veterans.

For information, go to www.phoenixstagecompany.org or call 860-417-2505.

Contributed photo Phoenix Stage Company presents “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” through July 28.