Ridgedale Players present ‘Unnecessary Farce’

TROY — Local theatergoers can expect a variety of comedic misunderstandings with the Ridgedale Players’ production of “Unnecessary Farce.”

Auditions for “Unnecessary Farce” occurred in June, and the show itself will be going on Sept. 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29, with Friday and Saturday shows starting at 8 p.m., and Sunday shows starting at 2 p.m.

The play, by Peter Slade Smith, is set in a motel room and follows the confusion and comedic errors that surround a couple of cops, a mayor and his accountant, as well as a few crooks. The play is considered a farce within the theatrical definition, which refers to shows that feature highly exaggerated and ridiculous situations for the entertainment of audiences.

“It’s a good time for two hours for people to forget our problems and the travails of life, and smile and laugh,” Joseph Munem, director of the Ridgedale Players’ production, said.

Munem has been involved with many different theater productions around southeast Michigan, including over 40 dramas, comedies and musicals. “Unnecessary Farce” is the third show that he has directed, and it is also the first comedy he has directed.

“We have a wonderful cast who have great chemistry and are very cooperative,” Munem said.

The cast features Brandon Drude as Eric Sheridan, Celeste Hackmann as Billie Dwyer, Christy Scott as Karen Brown, Joe Worthington as Mayor Meekly, Anthony Dondero as Agent Frank, Chris Oakley as Todd, and Lori Decker as Mary Meekly.

For Oakley, this is his first Ridgedale show, though he has been involved with theater for over 20 years.

“Joe encouraged me to try out,” Oakley said. “I play a bad guy, but in a more comical sense, and I’m not known for being a bad guy. The show is a lot of fun — to be someone you’re not and sometimes touch hearts.”

Later in Ridgedale’s current season, Oakley may direct “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

“As a newcomer, I think they’re very welcoming to new members and are committed to good entertainment,” Oakley said.

Hackmann also has some theater experience outside of the Ridgedale Players. This is her second show with them. Hackmann saw “Unnecessary Farce” last year at a different theater.

“It’s hilarious,” Hackmann said. “I’m having a good time onstage. Everyone’s pretty great and cautious. They’re good at making sure no one’s getting hurt and everyone’s conscious of each other.”

Decker’s experience with Ridgedale Players began as a parent volunteer through her kids’ involvement with the Junior Actors of Ridgedale and the Teen Actors of Ridgedale programs.

“I think Ridgedale Players is an amazing place,” Decker said. “They put the community in community theater. My daughter has blossomed during her time here and has grown as an actor. I’ll keep bringing my kids here.”

Decker notes that “Unnecessary Farce” is more of an adult show that might not be very-child friendly.

“It’s been great,” Decker said. “We all laugh at rehearsals, and I hope audiences laugh just as much.”

Tickets are available on the Ridgedale Players’ website and range from $18-$20.

For more information, visit ridgedaleplayers.com.