Wooster play celebrates Ella Kick's life

All around are stories worth telling — like the story of Wooster resident Ella Kick, who was born in Wooster’s Little Italy district in 1930. Her story unfolds in Lizbeth Mang’s play “What Were the Chances!”

Presented by WaCPAC, showtimes are March 19, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and March 22 at 2 p.m. at St. Mary’s School, 515 Beall Ave., Wooster. Tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for children 12 and under. Purchase online at WaCPAC.org or at the door.

“What Were the Chances!” tells the humorous true story of Kick and how she met her second husband, Joseph Evans, in 1990. Through lively reenactments, the play brings to life the people, moments and unexpected twists that shaped their relationship.

Every character in the cast is inspired by a real person. Together, these characters bring both joy and conflict into Ella’s life as her relationship with Evans begins to unfold.

Kick is a lifelong resident of the community. She remains an active member of St. Mary’s Church and is well known for her involvement and dedication to Wooster.

Lizbeth Mang is the playwright and the director of the play.

“In 1982, I was there when the foundation of WaCPAC was being formed,” she said. “No one can possibly put a play on by oneself. It takes a number of people to come together and make it happen. Jenny Karger Smith (WaCPAC board president) is amazing.”

Why tell Ella’s story?

“Everyone has a story,” said the playwright. “But Ella’s is a little extraordinary. When you talk with Ella, she has an amazing humor about everyday life. I would like the people of Wooster to get to know Ella through a warm and humorous play.”

Mang said Kick is an important figure in the community.

“(Ella) attended St. Mary’s School and has been a member of St. Mary’s ever since,” she said. “She keeps our county commissioners on their toes. She takes great pride in her Italian roots and growing up on Rebecca Street. She is a well-respected retired nurse, professor and storyteller.”

The play, Mang’s first, is based on Kick’s book, “EllaCare, A Life of Adventure and Discovery in Nursing.” It’s a two-act play with four scenes and a short intermission.

Mang met Kick when she and her husband moved in across the street.

“Ella was a delight to get to know,” said Mang.

When asked for some pointers for retirement, Kick advised Mang to have a purpose.

“Little did she know,” said Mang, “she was going to be my purpose.”

The cast of 10 is made up of local actors age 15 and up. Their stage experience ranges from professional to a few community shows.

“They are very supportive of each other,” said Mang. “That is what community theater is all about.”

What’s it like to put on a play about real people who will actually see the play?

“It’s a little stressful for the actors,” said Mang. “The actors hope the family will come and enjoy their interpretation of their characters. Ella will be there to see the play. The actors will be very interested in her reaction.”

Find WaCPAC online at WaCPAC.org and on Facebook. Sign up for its mailing list at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0945ABAC28A0F5C25-58655699-subscribe or email and ask to be added at wacpactheater@gmail.com.

Volunteers are welcome to assist with box office and concession sales. Donations of concession food items and themed basket raffle items are also appreciated.

Program advertisements are available for purchase. These provide valuable support for WaCPAC’s productions. To get involved, email wacpactheater@gmail.com or call 818-298-7308.