Little Theatre season to close with political spoof

The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County will close its 2023-24 season this coming weekend with the political spoof, “The Outsider.” Performances will run Thursdays through Sundays, Aug. 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24 and 25, with evening performances at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m.

Artistic Director Pat Potter called the show a laugh-a-minute satirical farce. “I was a responder at the Ohio Community Theater Association competition and judged this particular excerpt,” she said. “Normally, I don’t even discuss politics with others, but this play is so relevant today that I just had to direct it.”

The plot revolves around Ned Newley, possibly the worst candidate for governor ever to run for office. He is terrified of public speaking, and his poll numbers are extremely bad. The staff believes he is destined to fail, but a political consultant sees things differently, and the twists and turns run throughout the entire play.

Heading up the cast are Tom Morris as Ned Newley; Jack Thomas, Dave Riley; Shawn Clay, Arthur Vance; Caitlin Allshouse, Louise Peaks; Sami Krocker, Rachel Parsons; Conner Limbaugh, A.C. Petersen; and Anna Zurcher, Paige Caldwell.

Potter’s staff includes Samantha White, assistant director; Roxie Long and cast, props; Malarie Chineal, understudy; Patti Limbaugh, costumer; Ken Holmes, set director; Ryan Flaherty, sound; Anastasia Merritt, lights; Mark Limbaugh, stage manager; Jane Deitrick and Michele Davis, stage dressing; Shannon Krocker, dialogue prompter; and Dan Wiandt, producer.

Potter has directed more than 30 plays at The Little Theatre and has played leading roles in at least 20. A graduate of Auburn University with a degree in theater, she has lived in nine different states and taught both high school and college.

“I even enjoyed directing my twin and other brother,” she said. “It is so satisfying to give someone the opportunity to express art on stage. There is nothing more rewarding than watching an actor learn and become the character they need to portray. It’s almost like birthing a baby,” Potter said.

Potter still works as a responder for OCTA, holds The Little Theatre Marquee Award, and is a visual artist specializing in oil, water color and pastels.

“I love to laugh,” Potter said. “Our world needs a lot more laughter, and this play provides two full hours of a laugh a minute.”

“The Outsider” is sponsored by Virginia and Todd Whetstone and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #515-Dover. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children with military discounts available. Tickets can be purchased through the KSU Performing Arts Center’s box office by calling 330-308-6500. Walk-in purchasing is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the PAC and on show dates from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the theater.

Little Theatre is located at 466 Carrie Ave. NW in New Philadelphia.