Second Stage to introduce theatre geared toward adults
Local theater-goers in search of more serious-minded performances are in luck thanks to a new project, the Second Stage Theatre Troupe.
The troupe, according to organizer Rhett Davis, is “looking to put on different performances more oriented towards adult audiences with strong subjects such as alcoholism, family disputes, infertility and other adult themes.”
Davis said the troupe plans, at least initially, to stage performances based on already published works that meet their thematic specifications.
“We actually plan on doing performances that are published. Our first show is called ‘Lone Star’ and ‘Laundry and Bourbon,’ which is two one-act plays combined to make a full play,” Davis said.
“We may do locally written stuff as well, but right now the goal is doing arty, established, written plays,” he continued.
“Lone Star” and “Laundry and Bourbon” are both written by playwright James McLure.
Davis also expressed a desire to experiment stylistically with Second Stage in addition to the use of more mature themes.
“My goal is not to play it safe, necessarily; I’d like to see experimental things and new innovative things as well as new takes on different things. I’d like to see a lot of variety; if you’ve seen the show before, I’d like it to be done differently and be a new experience,” Davis said.
Davis is a frequent director of South Arkansas Arts Center plays and most recently directed a production of “Clue,” with his wife. The concept of Second Stage, he said, was borne from the idea of expanding the possible performances at SAAC.
“I’m on the steering committee [at SAAC]. When looking at possible shows on a main stage performance level, there’s certain shows you can’t do, whether from notoriety or due to subject matter. For example, with ‘Lone Star’ and ‘Laundry and Bourbon,’ the subject matter not suitable for all audiences because it doesn’t have family appeal and that limits its scopes. With this troupe we wanted to access plays that we couldn’t otherwise,” Davis said.
The troupe currently plans to stage “seasons,” of shows, one per quarter of each year. In 2022, they plan to stage two.
“Our first show is in August and audition dates are in June. We’re looking for maybe another before the end of the year and next year start with four every year. There will also be other projects we do between those,” he said.
Second Stage is currently looking for actors, technical workers, directors and any other kind of support.
Davis said those interested in auditioning should reach out to him or his wife and collaborator, Hannah. Rhett Davis can be reached at 870-3126607.