Hollywood And Broadway Character Actor Stars In Springer Comedy

Brian Reddy has shared the big screen with Robert DeNiro, Joe Pecci, Pierce Brosnan and Richard Gere. He's been directed by Martin Scorsese, the Coen Brothers and Mike Nichols. He has appeared on Broadway with the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Patti LuPone and Sam Waterston.

Reddy is among the most recognized character actors in the world but right now he is tackling one of the most challenging roles of his career at the Springer Opera House.

Last of the Red Hot Lovers is Neil Simon's comedy classic about Barney Cashman, an overweight, straight-laced owner of a seafood restaurant who decides to have a fling before modern life passes him by. Reddy's challenge? He never leaves the stage for the entire play.

"Besides the fast pace and physical comedy, Neil Simon has given me some of the most masterful comic dialogue you'll find anywhere," said Reddy. "Those things are a workout for any actor. But add to that the three amazing women I get to share the stage with and this show keeps me hopping from beginning to end."

Barney arranges three seductions - Elaine, a sultry, experienced "other woman" (played by Tess Kincaid) , Bobbi Michelle, a kooky, out-of-work actress (Katie Deal) and Jeanette, a depressed housewife (Tamara Johnson). As a red hot lover, Barney is a flop. But in a tender, insightful turn, he discovers the enduring fulfillment of true love - with his wife.

Reddy's film and tv credits include O Brother Where Art Thou?, Casino, The Birdcage, Primal Fear, Dante's Peak, House of Cards, the Good Wife, Seinfeld and Madam Secretary, among others. He has performed on Broadway, Off-Broadway, Lincoln Center and for America's finest regional theatre companies, including Arena Stage in Washington, DC, the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis, The Alley Theatre in Houston and Atlanta's ALLIANCE THEATRE.

The comedy is directed by producing artistic director, Paul Pierce. Pierce and Reddy have been friends since the 1970s when they studied theatre and performed at the University of Georgia. Costumes are designed by Amanda Mattes.

"Brian and I were in Inherit the Wind, The Rivals and Rimers of Eldritch together at UGA," said Pierce. "After he moved to New York and was hired into John Houseman's Acting Company, his career took off and I was never able to peel him away from Hollywood and Broadway. Now that Brian is sort of a senior statesman of the acting profession, he has the freedom to pick and choose his stage and screen projects. I'm thrilled that he chose this show at the Springer."

Tess Kincaid (Elaine) is making her first appearance on the Springer stage. She is one of Atlanta's most sought-after theatre and film actors, having performed leading roles at the ALLIANCE THEATRE, Horizon Theatre, True Colors, Stage Door Theatre, Georgia Ensemble Theatre and Theatrical Outfit where she is director of communications and development. She is a three-time winner of Atlanta theatre's Suzi Bass Award for Outstanding Lead Actress. TV credits include Homeland, Greenleaf, Sleepless, Devious Maids and Ozark.

Katie Deal (Bobbi Michelle) is well-known to Springer audiences, having performed lead roles in 9 to 5, Lakebottom Proper, The Full Monty and A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline. A popular singer and recording artist, Katie's touring shows, Wildflowers - The Women of Country Music, Nashville Roadshow and Country Royalty, keep her busy throughout the year. As the youngest of three daughters of Georgia Governor Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal, Katie jokingly refers to herself as the "Third First Daughter."

Tamara Johnson (Jeanette) returns to the Springer stage after performing the role of M'Lynn in Steel Magnolias in 2013. Johnson works in both film and theatre. She is based in Williamsburg, Virginia where she is an actor and associate producer for Virginia Shakespeare Festival and teaches in the theatre department at the College of William and Mary. She has also acted in numerous productions at New Arts Theatre in Dallas, Virginia Repertory Theatre, Cadence Theatre and Wayside Theatre. Film credits include Where Are You, Bobby Browning?, Dinner With The Alchemist and 6 Souls.

Last of the Red Hot Lovers runs April 27, 28, May 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, and 12 at 7:30 PM & April 29 and May 6 at 2:30 PM. For tickets, call 706-327-3688 or visit springeroperahouse.org.