OR, Brings Laughs and Thrills This Winter at Hedgerow

Hedgerow Theatre is heating things up this winter with the regional premiere of Liz Duffy Adams' steamy comedy, Or, (the comma is part of the title) from January 28 through February 28.

Adams' sexy romp mixes history, farce, witty language and a political spy thriller as it tells of a day in the fascinating, multi-faceted life of pioneering female writer Aphra Behn (1640-89). It opens as she's sprung from debtors' prison after a disastrous overseas spy mission for King Charles II. In the Restoration Era, women are now allowed to take part in theatre, so she has a shot at a production at one of only two London companies if she can finish writing her play by morning. Her task is complicated by constant interruptions from her sudden new love, cross-dressing actress Nell Gwynne; complicated royal love, the king; and very dodgy ex-love, double-agent William Scott-who may be in on a plot to murder the king in the morning. That means she has to try to save Charles' life, win William a pardon, resist Nell's charms, and launch her career, all in one night.

Philadelphia actor/director/dramaturg Kittson O'Neill, who directed last year's critically acclaimed On the Verge, returns as Aphra. Hedgerow Fellows Allison Bloechl (Lucy in Dracula) and Brock Vickers (the title character in Bullshot Crummond) play all of the other roles, making lightning-fast costume and accent changes in true farcical style.

The production is directed by Aaron Cromie, a Philadelphia-based director, designer and performer, who served as the scene designer for On the Verge. He'll back at Hedgerow in the spring to direct his adaptation of Carlo Goldini's The Servant of Two Masters.

Adult ticket prices for Friday, Saturday evening and Sunday shows are $34; Thursday and Saturday twilight shows are $29. There is a $3 discount for seniors. Tickets for those 30 and under are $20. Tickets for the previews on January 28 and 29 are $20 for adults and $15 for students. For groups of 10 or more, tickets are $18. Members can purchase half-price tickets for all shows. Prices include all fees and are subject to change.

For reservations or more info, call 610-565-4211 or visit www.HedgerowTheatre.org. Hedgerow Theatre is located at 64 Rose Valley Road in Rose Valley (near Media).

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