BWW Interviews: ANGEL STREET to Haunt Wichita Community Theatre

Angel Street by Patrick Hamilton and directed by Dana Womack is set to open Thursday June 4th at Wichita Community Theatre. A classic script, talented cast and exemplary creative team promise to make this a thrilling production.

Originally produced under the title Gas Light, the show is the origin of the term "gas lighting"- a form of psychological abuse, making the victim doubt their own memories. There have been several cinematic reincarnations, as well as Broadway and West End runs.

The action takes place in the drawing room of the Manningham household of Victorian England. The decadent set and low, mysterious lighting reveal Bella and Jack Manningham (played by Michelle Janssens and Lewis D. Mize). However, the secrets of the house reveal a mystery that will change their lives forever.

Michele Janssens plays Bella Manningham, the heroine. "She is on a journey to discovering who she really is, and I like playing women who are on that journey." Janssens is drawn to period pieces. "I think they are tried and true. Dana has given us a lot of freedom to discover how we want to play the character, and by default how we relate to one another on stage. It could be viewed as a happy ending, but in my eyes, it's tragic. A certain phase of her life is over and a new phase is about to begin, but for a woman in that day and age, it is equally as terrifying."

Inspector Rough (played by Kevin Sowers) arrives on the scene and quickly destroys the status quo. Sowers enjoys being part of the production. "I don't think I could have asked for a better cast. Lewis is amazing and Michele is phenomenal. I want the audience to tell everyone else, and come back for a second viewing. This is the type of show that demands a repeated viewing. I feel very blessed to be a part of this cast." Additional cast members include Deb Goin and Andi Weaver as the Manningham household maids.

Angel Street is the winner of an annual fundraiser at Wichita Community Theatre. Audience Choice provides the patrons a voice in choosing one of the scripts produced by donating to a fund for the respective scripts. The three options included Father of the Bride, A Streetcar Named Desire or Angel Street. Director Dana Womack is pleased. When she committed to directing, she knew it was a risk. "I wanted Angel Street. I love mysteries."

Angel Street runs June 4 through 22, 2014 with performances Thursday though Saturday at 8:00p.m. and Sundays at 7:00p.m. For tickets call (316)686-1282. Tickets are $14 for adults and $12 for students/seniors/military. Wichita Community Theatre is located at 258 N. Fountain in Wichita. For more information visit www.wichitact.org

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