Barefoot in the Park at The Capitol Theater

EASTCONN’s Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT) magnet school will present Neil Simon’s hilarious play “Barefoot in the Park” on its main stage (896 Main Street, Willimantic). Performances will take place on Thurs., Fri. and Sat., May 11-13, 2023 at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sat., May 13. This family-friendly performance is open to the public.

“Barefoot in the Park” follows the lives of Paul and Corie Bratter – young newlyweds experiencing the fun and challenges of married bliss. When Corie sets up a blind date between her mother and an eccentric neighbor, an evening of hysterical mishaps ensues. The couple eventually learns how to navigate their personal differences, while also understanding that true love often involves compromise.

“We are excited to bring this well-loved play to life on our stage,” ACT principal Sarah Mallory said. “Our students have been working hard to develop their characters and to dive into the time period to truly immerse themselves in the script.”

The roles of Corie Bratter, Paul Bratter and Victor Velasco are played by seniors Kylie McArthur (Putnam), Maximus Baruch Bouilly (Norwich) and John Margelony (Vernon) respectively. Junior Madison Hurley (Norwich) plays Ethel Banks (Corie’s mother), while the roles of the Telephone Repair Man and the Delivery Man are shared by both junior Orpheus Wilson (Ellington) and sophomore Angelica Ramos Pagan (Willimantic).

“This beautifully crafted romantic comedy stands the test of time throughout 60 years of social, economic, political and cultural upheaval in America,” said ACT Director of Theater Sandra Evans-Abbott, who directs the production. “‘Barefoot’ provides audiences with a timeless affirmation that true love is about commitment, dedication and never going to bed angry.”

Senior Allison Root (Southington) and sophomore Alexandra Popovic (Ellington) serve as Stage Managers, while ACT instructors Colin McNamee (scene and lighting design), Sarah Murphy (costume design) and Dan Boisvert (poster and sound design) are also involved in the production.

Tickets can be reserved by calling 860-465-5636 or purchased at the box office one hour before each performance. Cash or checks accepted at the box office window. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students, seniors or military, and $5 for ACT students, ACT alumni and EASTCONN employees.

“Barefoot in the Park” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. (www.concordtheatricals.com). EASTCONN, which administers ACT, is a public, non-profit Regional Educational Service Center that has been serving the education needs of northeastern Connecticut’s schools and communities since 1980. Learn more at www.eastconn.org.

Photo: Madison Hurley (left), Kylie McArthur (center) and Maximus Baruch Bouilly (right) rehearse a scene from Neil Simon’s “Barefoot in the Park” (EASTCONN Photo).