Remy Bumppo Offers YOU CAN NEVER TELL Admission by Donation to the Lakeview Pantry

Remy Bumppo's presentation of George Bernard Shaw's You Never Can Tell begins with four previews Thanksgiving week. Given the timing and Shaw's famed social concerns, it seemed an appropriate opportunity to benefit our community.

The decision was made to team with the Lakeview Pantry, which has been battling hunger on the north side of Chicago for more than 40 years. The Greenhouse Theater Center, on whose upstairs mainstage You Never Can Tell will be presented, happily joined in to make the drive possible.

"Remy Bumppo has always specialized in producing thought-provoking plays that deal with social issues and moral complexities," says Artistic Director Nick Sandys, "So, even though Shaw's You Never Can Tell may be one of his sunniest social comedies, it seems a no-brainer for us to make a small gesture like this in an economic climate where so many are hurting and need not only help but kindness."

For each of the four preview performances - Wednesday, Friday and Saturday of Thanksgiving week at 7:30pm and Sunday afternoon at 2:30, Remy Bumppo will set aside 50 seats for admission by food or monetary donation to Lakeview Pantry. Patrons may donate as much or as little as they can afford, from a can or two to full grocery bags, and get to enjoy a performance of Shaw's hilarious comedy by one of Chicago's foremost mid-size theatre companies.

Lakeview Pantry, which distributes more than one and quarter million pounds of food a year through its two locations and home delivery to the disabled, accepts donations of all non-perishable foods, with a current special need for fruit juice (unrefrigerated), canned tuna and tomato sauce. For those who would prefer to donate cash, Remy Bumppo will have someone on hand to collect that as well.

Patrons participating in the donation program should go to the Greenhouse box office at 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, where ticketing will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis while the supply of 50 lasts, beginning an hour before curtain. Collection of food or monetary donations will be made at the entrance to the upstairs mainstage.

Will this program help some of Chicago's most needy citizens get through the holidays? You Never Can Tell.

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