Community Theatre expands online streaming with monologue show
In its ongoing effort to expand locally-based community entertainment, Willits Community Theatre has launched its latest offering in streaming video. “Speakeasy VII”, a newly-produced installment of the popular annual hit monologue show, is now available through the new WCT website. The production showcases original stories from many of the show’s long-time veterans, along with unique pieces from some very talented newcomers.
WCT Production Manager Mike A’ dair says of the show, “We think it’s wonderful that our local storytelling and the monologue format have continued with this latest mix.” He is particularly impressed that some of the performances include timely takes on life and conditions during the on-going pandemic. Access to WCT’S “Speakeasy complete VII” video and library is available through its new website: www.wctperformingartscenter.org. For Speakeasy VII an optional donation is being requested to help support
WCT in its move to expand viewing content for home audiences.
Produced by Emmy Good and the cludes Speakeasy edited presentations by Keena VII video Good, ranging infrom current heartwarming accounts, to the thoughtful and very funny remembrances. Good says it was a new and complicated process producing the show for online distribution.
“At first there were so many challenges, we weren’t sure we could do it,” she says. “But then people realized it would be therapeutic, so we ended up with a real learning experience, and something for everyone.”
The lineup for Speakeasy VII includes: Emmy Good opening the show with her lifelong love affair for driving, including some wild mis-adventures; Bill Herr’s humorous and friendly take on a one-night stand; Gloria Grieco’s personal account of her appearance on the 1960s American Bandstand show with host Dick Clark; a journey through an outlandish artist co-op in San Francisco begins a long strange trip recounted by Bill Barksdale; life in an old log cabin with visits from a very wild bear from Jane Camp; a touching eulogy to a beloved pet dog by Nancy Wilson; Linda Posner and her daughter Pearl Marill performing in a duet mime dance with an accompanying voice-over elegy to yummy food, amazing animal toys and family ties.
Also appearing are: Peter Winslow describing with childhood glee the magic of a butterfly escaping from its cocoon; Freddie Long recounting her childhood with a moneystrapped mother and their caring for each other; Earlene Gleisner traces events with a fully-packed car following a loved one’s passing; Kelli Weaver offers the gripping experience of being very sick and getting well again; a most compelling account from Ellen Weed in which a 14-yearold girl strives for her very survival; Melinda Clarke offers snapshots for the present transformational time; Barbara Oreardon sings amazingly of the power of family and survival; and for comic effect at the show’s conclusion, four dogs appear on screen with human voiceovers offering some pieces of advice for how everyone can just get along.