Dating is tough. There is no question that first dates often bring out the nerves. Sweaty palms, accelerated heartbeats, planning what to say… there are so many ways a date can go wrong. But no matter how bad you think you’ve had it, there is no question the characters in the five one-acts presented by Black Swamp Players have had it worse.
A Bill of One-Acts is a collection of love related plays, a part of The Black Swamp Players unique twist to their usual season. For one weekend, November 13th-15th, the company will present a series of one-act plays at various venues across Bowling Green. Audience members will get an evening or afternoon of five one-act plays, usually running at around 10-25 minutes each.
What’s playing?
“Check, Please” directed by Lane Hakel shows a series of vignettes dealing with blind dates gone wrong. Naturally when a mime, a little boy, and a kleptomaniac show up, there’s going to be trouble.
“Sure, Thing” directed by Guy Zimmerman is the story of a couple meeting for the first time. When things take a turn for the worse, a ringing bell signals the opportunity for the couple to start the conversation over again.
“I’m Herbert” directed by Deb Weiser shows how simply sitting on a porch talking can be so amusing. Two very old people with previous marriages and a few flings reflect on the hazy details of their love lives.
“Bride and Gloom” with directorial assistance by Deb Shaffer tells the story of a bride and groom on opposite sides of the door getting ready for the wedding. The bride, however, is starting to have second thoughts.
“Dead Right” is also directed by Lane Hakel and focuses on an older married couple who has started the awkward conversation about their future obituaries.
Off to the show!
The idea for the collection of one-acts came when Black Swamp Players decided they wanted to offer wine and appetizers with the shows. Their usual performance venue does not allow alcohol, so the new location every night became a popular option. The performances will also offer the opportunity to raise money for their Kirk Wray Memorial Scholarship Fund through the use of a 50/50 raffle and donations for dessert.
According to Deb Shaffer, president of Black Swamp Players, “Our goal is that our audiences will enjoy the more intimate setting, laugh a lot, have fun with their friends and will look forward to Black Swamp Players doing something like this in the future!”
Friday and Saturday evening performances will include a drink and appetizers. On Sunday, the show will feature desserts and coffee during intermission.
8pm Friday, November 13. $25. Clazel Theatre, 127 N. Main St., Bowling Green | 8pm Saturday, November 14. $25. Veteran’s Hall in BG City Park, 520 Conneaut Ave., Bowling Green | 1pm Sunday, November 15. $12/adults, $10/students & seniors. Simpson Garden Building, 1291 Conneaut Ave., Bowling Green | blackswampplayers.org
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