Theatre Longview cast members rehearse Monday, May 6, 2024 for their roles in an upcoming performance of "Playhouse Creatures." (Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal Photo)

Theatre Longview is set to perform its first show on the newly renovated Longview Community Center stage with its production of “Playhouse Creatures” by April De Angelis.

The play is set 7:30 p.m. May 9-11 and 2:30 p.m. May 12. The opening performance May 9 also will include feature a free opening night reception at 6:30 p.m.

“ ‘Playhouse Creatures’ takes place in 1669 and is based on the historical account of the first five actresses to grace the stage in Restoration period England — Doll Common, Mary Betterton, Nell Gwyn, Rebecca Marshall and Elizabeth Farley,” according to information from Theatre Longview. “Prior to Charles II’s decree in 1660, women were not allowed to perform on stage alongside men. ‘Playhouse Creatures’ follows the successes of these female pioneers of theater, but also documents the heartache and hardships women in the spotlight faced in that time period.

“Audiences can expect to be taken on a journey with these characters that is funny and heartwarming, but at times also heart-wrenching.”

The show is directed by Gloria McLuckie and assistant directed by Steven Lane Jr.

“Whatever audiences leave the theatre thinking our play is about, for me, it stands alone as one of the greatest pieces of theatrical literature to tell the story of ‘woman,’ “ McLuckie said. “Through creating this art, we have found empowerment through the struggles of these women. We learned that 1669 is no different than 2024. We struggle, we evaluate, we survive, we become stronger.

“Each woman involved in this production has been emotionally charged during our rehearsal process. We talked, we laughed, we cried, and bonded through the words and thoughts of our playwright. We hope our audiences do the same!”

The cast includes Texas Shakespeare Festival Company Member Sasha Hildebrand along with Azure McLuckie, Abby Jester-Randall, KayCee Counts and Charity Stone.

“Playhouse Creatures” is the first performance on the Longview Community Center stage after Arts!Longview’s completion of extensive renovations in the auditorium including new curtains, a new LED intelligent lighting system and completely renovated hemp rigging system.

“Since Arts!Longview began managing the Longview Community Center, it has been a joy and an honor to bring renewed life and energy to this historic building,” said Arts! Longview’s Executive Director Christina Cavazos. “This renovation project brought modern equipment and technology to the auditorium while maintaining the historical integrity of this space, which has been a beloved performance venue in our community for decades.

“This renovation project ensures that this auditorium will continue to serve for decades to come as a premier performance venue for our artistic community.”

The May 9 opening night reception is free and will feature cheesecake donated by Cheesecake Lane and wine donated by Harley’s Liquor. Theatre Longview will also offer a special gift for the first 50 women to attend the matinee performance on Mother’s Day.

Theatre Longview recommends this production for ages 13 and older.

Tickets can be purchased at www.theatrelongview.com.

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