Lifeline Theatre to Stage MONSTROUS REGIMENT, 5/30-7/20

Lifeline Theatre presents a world premiere adaptation of Terry Pratchett's Monstrous Regiment, by ensemble member Chris Hainsworth, and directed by Kevin Theis (two-time Non-Equity Jeff Award nominee). Borogravia is at war. Again. When Polly Perks' brother goes missing in action, she cuts off her hair, stuffs a sock down her breeches, and enlists, hoping to find him. Passing successfully as a young man, she soon discovers that she's not alone in protecting a secret and that nothing in the improbable war is as it seems. Scrambling to survive both the enemy and their untried officer, Polly's misfit company makes its way to the front, where it might just prove to be the least likely regiment to ever win a battle. A wickedly funny look at the absurdities of war and ambiguities of identity, brought to life by a cast of eleven actors, including Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Robert Kauzlaric, Katie McLean Hainsworth, and Christopher M. Walsh.

Monstrous Regiment runs May 30-July 20 at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. (free parking and shuttle; see below). Press opening is Sunday, June 8 at 4 p.m. Opening night is Monday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m. (Previews are Fridays, May 30 and June 6 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, May 31 and June 7 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, June 1 at 4 p.m.)

Regular performance times (June 12-July 20) are Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 4 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 4 p.m. There will be no July 4 performance. Ticket prices are $40 for regular single tickets, $30 for seniors, $20 for students (with I.D.), $20 for rush tickets (available half hour before show time, subject to availability), and $20 for previews. Group rate for 12 or more is available upon request. Tickets may be purchased at the Lifeline Theatre Box Office, 773.761.4477, or by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com. The production runs approximately two hours with one intermission. The book will be on sale in the lobby.

The complete cast and production team for Monstrous Regiment includes:

Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Robert Kauzlaric (Lt. Blouse), Katie McLean Hainsworth (Igor), and Christopher M. Walsh (Sgt. Jackrum); with guest artists Kim Boler (Tonker), Matt Engle (Zlobenian Captain/Lord Rust/Paul), Melissa Engle (Wazzer), John Ferrick (Cpl. Strappi/Towering/General Froc), Michaela Petro (Maladict), Sarah Price (Polly Perks), Justine C. Turner (Carborundum), and Mandy Walsh (Lofty). With understudies Chris Ballou, Alexandra Burch, Katie Campbell, Catherine Dughi, and Anthony Kayer.

Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Kevin D. Gawley (Lighting Designer), Chris Hainsworth (Adaptor), and Elise Kauzlaric (Dialect Coach); with guest artists Becky Bishop (Stage Manager), Kitty Campbell (Properties Designer & Puppet Assistant), Geoff Coates (Fight Choreographer), Benjamin W. Dawson (Production Manager), Emily Dillard (Assistant Director), Joanna Iwanicka (Scenic & Puppet Designer), Chris Kriz (Original Music & Sound Designer), Emily McConnell (Costume Designer), Danny Osburn (Master Electrician), Joe Schermoly (Technical Director), and Kevin Theis (Director).

Lifeline Theatre presents Monstrous Regiment, running May 30-July 20, at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. (free parking and shuttle; see below). Press opening is Sunday, June 8 at 4 p.m. Opening night is Monday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m. (Previews are Fridays, May 30 and June 6 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, May 31 and June 7 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, June 1 at 4 p.m.)

Regular performance times (June 12-July 20) are Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 4 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 4 p.m. There will be no July 4 performance. Ticket prices are $40 for regular single tickets, $30 for seniors, $20 for students (with I.D.), $20 for rush tickets (available half hour before show time, subject to availability), and $20 for previews. Group rate for 12 or more is available upon request. Tickets may be purchased at the Lifeline Theatre Box Office, 773.761.4477, or by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com.

Free parking is available at the designated lot west of the theatre (NE corner of Morse and Ravenswood) with free shuttle service before and after the show. Street parking is also available and Lifeline Theatre is handicapped and CTA accessible (Red Line Morse stop/busses).

Photo by Suzanne Plunkett