Tonasket Community Theater to present 'Animal Farm'

TONASKET – The Tonasket Community Theater will be presenting “Animal Farm,” a play adapted from the classic George Orwell novel of the same name.

The theater group will be presenting the play at the The Community Cultural Center located at 411 Western Avenue in Tonasket. The play is running Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25, 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. An afternoon matinee will also be performed on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 3 p.m.

“This is the same novel so many of you read in school 40 years ago or maybe last year. The story is about farm animals that rebel against a cruel farmer, overthrow him and sincerely attempt to create a perfect society where all animals are equal.” said Sarah Kaiser, who directs the play.

Orwell wrote the book in 1945, based on the Russian Revolution, but when you have political history presented by chickens, horses and pigs, the comedy begins, said Kaiser.

“Try to imagine how a chicken would milk a cow or how a pig would organize food distribution. Then imagine your friends and neighbors from Tonasket and Oroville playing those parts,” she said. “This is highly entertaining for all ages and you wouldn’t want to miss it.”

The cast is composed of 17 people ages seven to 66 from Tonasket and Oroville. They include Scott Olson, Pete Dumas, Katie Johann, Dave Fruit, Ryland Duncan, Cheyanne Sharp, Connor Thompson, Melissa Dale, Connie Knight, Mariliz Romano, Stefani Lynch, Mike Lynch, Rob Thompson, Walter Henze, Aby Gshiel, Rosa Heavenrich, Camille Wilson, Maya Johann, Angelina WIlson, Bob Heavenrich and Kallie Mirick.

All proceeds go to the Community Cultural Center Building Operations Fund to help support the many cultural presentations, classes and activities that enrich the community.

“We know that people who attend the play will appreciate the incredible improvements in our facility. We are especially proud of the entrance renovation, new bathrooms and comfortable chairs,” said River Jones, executive director of the Community Cultural Center.

“This is the result of community contributions and grant awards. As we raise more funds, the theater area will be renovated also. Donations beyond the ticket price are highly appreciated,” she added.

Tickets are $5 and may be purchased at Tonasket Natural Foods Co-op and Roy’s Pharmacy in Tonasket, Oroville Pharmacy, Main Street Market in Omak and at the door. Many performances by Tonasket Community Theater have sold out in previous years, so those who want to see one of the performances are encouraged to buy their tickets in advance. The reception room of the CulturalCenter will be open one hour prior to each performance so people can arrive early to socialize and buy refreshments. The doors to the theater area will open one half hour before the curtain time.

For more information call the CCC office at (509) 486-1328 or email saradrama@ncidata.com.