Harvey (2009)

Performances

January 16-18, 22-25, 29-31, 2009

Venue

Community Players Theatre

Sponsor: John Contarino

Synopsis

“Harvey” tells the story of Elwood P. Dowd, a man whose best friend is a “pooka” named Harvey in the form of a six foot, three and one-half inch tall rabbit. His family wants Elwood committed to an asylum. Can Harvey save the day?

Author: Mary Chase

Historian’s Corner

Harvey Preview (Curtain Calls 4.5, January 2009)

The second half of the 86th Season at Community Players started with the Mary Chase classic “Harvey.” This was the third time that “Harvey” had been presented by the Players. This classic show was first presented as the closing offering of the 1951-1952 season, with the second presentation closing out the 1989-1990 season.

As a continuing part the projects to be completed at Players this season, patrons who came to see “Harvey” were able to see the lobby, box office, and the Dick Brown green room all repainted. Also on display was new carpeting in the lobby, green room, stairs and front of the stage in the theater house. The carpeting was donated by State Farm Insurance Co. The donation was made in the fall with installation by the opening of “Harvey.”

Working as co-chairmen of an ad hoc fund development committee, Joe Strupek and Herb Reichelt set about to establish procedures and development to increase revenue. Their first order of business was to re-establish the Sponsorship program. “Harvey” was the first show of the season to have a sponsor. This time it was not a corporation, but the generosity of long time season ticket holder and theater supporter, John Contarino. John discovered that being behind the footlights was as much fun as watching the plays. John had been a member since the 1960’s. As a thank you for John’s contribution, a reception was held in the theater following a performance of “Harvey.” Eighty of John’s friends and the cast joined in the celebration.