Stuart FL: Memorial Day Weekend presents Florida History Event: at A.C.T. Studio Theatre

Memorial Day Weekend A.C.T. presents a Florida History event Mayday: Captain Lerro and the Skyway Bridgeby Bill DeYoungMemorial Day weekend A.C.T. Studio Theatre is presenting a story from Floridas history. Many Floridians remember the tragic events of May 9, 1980 when during a sudden violent storm, a 20,000 ton freighter struck a support pier of the 15-mile Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The main span splintered and collapsed 150 feet into Tampa Bay. Six cars, a truck and a Greyhound bus plunged into the water below. Thirty-five people died. It was a pivotal moment in the Tampa Bay area, and the worst ship-bridge collision in U. S. history. Captain John Lerro was the Tampa harbor pilot at the command of the freighter that morninga man who you will get to know and perhaps admire despite the harrowing events. The accident and tragic loss of life were caused by a blinding, rogue storm that knocked out the ship's radar. Although exonerated by the courts, Captain Lerro spent the rest of his life regarded as a pariah in the community, made all the worse by his persistent survivors guilt. This is the story of that fateful day and his 20-year quest for redemption. Playwright Bill DeYoungs script is based on his 2013 book, Skyway: The True Story of Tampa Bays Signature Bridge and the Man Who Brought It Down. Mr. DeYoung will be at A.C.T. on Saturday, May 28 to address the audience after the show. Talkbacks will also be conducted after Fridays and Sundays performances by retired Merchant Marine captains. Mayday: Captain Lerro and the Skyway Bridge is directed by Dennis ODonovan and stars Michael Beecher as Captain Lerro. Mayday will be presented Memorial Day weekend only, May 27, 28, 29. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m., and a Sunday matinee at 3:00 p.m. A.C.T. Studio Theatre is located in the Cedar Pointe Plaza, 2399 SE Ocean Blvd., Stuart. Reserved seating is $25. For tickets and information, please visit actstudiotheatre.com or call (772) 932-8880.