Photo Flash: Theatre Too presents CEDAR SPRINGS OR BIG SCARY ANIMALS

An older white couple from the country unknowingly moves to the gayborhood in Dallas to be closer to their granddaughter. What begins as polite dinner conversation with their gay, multi-ethnic neighbors careens out of control. A hilarious collision of race, sex, guns and sports, playwright Matt Lyle examines shifting generational beliefs and just how hard it is to raise a child regardless of who you are and where you live.

"The play is about 6 people from very different backgrounds and 'tribes' (rural/urban, liberal/conservative, black/white, old/young, gay/straight)," explains Lyle, "Who are forced to relate as individuals when they normally wouldn't. I know I often stay in my bubble because it's easier. Straying can be hard, funny, rewarding and very messy."

"I'm thrilled to be working with Matt and to introduce his work to our patrons," says Theatre Three Artistic Director Jeffrey Schmidt. "His play has it all. Race, religion, sex, politics, and guns. It's knock down, drag out funny, but still manages to be searingly critical and insightful about the ever present Culture Clash in American society."

"The show examines the thought that there is no one you can't learn to love once you've heard their story," Lyle continues. "I wish that was always true and I think the play communicates that hope while admitting the limitations."

Cedar Springs or Big Scary Animals is directed by Theatre Three Artistic Director Jeffrey Schmidt with Richard Quandri as Assistant Director. The cast includes Charlotte Akin (Rhonda), John S. Davies (Donald), Chad Cline (Clark), Wilbur Penn (Marcus), Alle Mims (Sophia), and Jaxon Beeson(Ronnie).

Photos by Jeffrey Schmidt.

L-R: Chad Cline, Jaxon Beeson, Alle Mims, Wilbur Penn, John S. Davies and Charlotte Akin. Photo by Jeffrey Schmidt.

Alle Mims and Jaxon Beeson. Photo by Jeffrey Schmidt.

Jaxon Beeson and Alle Mims. Photo by Jeffrey Schmidt.