Moonlight and Magnolias at Tellico Community Playhouse

PERFORMANCES:

December 4-5, 7:30 PM

December 6, 1:30 PM

December 11-13, 7:30 PM

December 14, 1:30 PM

December 18-20, 7:30 PM

December 21, 1:30 PM

Moonlight and Magnolias tells the little known story of how the movie Gone with the Wind was almost never filmed. Forget Scarlet O’Hara and Rhett Butler, the true drama took place in one room with three men desperately working against time to write a script worth filming.

The show was loosely based on an autobiography written by Ben Hecht. Mr. Hecht was hired by David O. Selznick who had halted production on Gone With the Wind, fearing it would fail and lose the financial backing of his Father-in-law, Louis G. Mayer. He enlisted the help of famous screen writer, Ben Hecht, to rewrite the script and pulled the Director of The Wizard of Oz, Victor Fleming, off that set to direct. A problem arose immediately; Hecht had never read the 44 chapter novel. Further complicating matters, is tbe fact that Mr. Selznick wanted the rewrite completed in five days How can they accomplish that feat? Being sequestered in one room, along with an interesting diet helps the situation. Aided by a very capable secretary, the trio forges on despite overwhelming odds and "unique" living circumstances.

If you've ever day dreamed about the famous movie, here is the truth behind the magic. The story that surrounds this comedy will have you wondering how the cinematic treasure ever made it to the big screen.