CRT Next Presents Two Revivals for Their 50th Anniversary Summer Season

For the second and third shows in their 50th Anniversary season, Cortland Repertory Theatre presents two revivals of popular shows from their past: “Over the River and Through the Woods”, a comedy by Joe DiPietro, and the musical “Kiss Me, Kate” with music and lyrics by Cole Porter with book by Sam and Bella Spewack.  

“Over the River…” will have performances at the Little York Pavilion in Preble from June 22nd – July 1st with evening shows at 7:30 PM.  Matinees are available on June 24th, 26th, 29th and July 1st at 2:00 PM.  “Kiss Me, Kate” performances will run from July 6th – 16th with evening shows at 7:30 PM.  Matinees are available on July 8th, 10th, and 13th at 2:00 PM.

While securing tickets for the summer shows at the CRT Box Office, I had a chance encounter that extended beyond the arts. As I chatted with the volunteer, I learned he was a retired professional from a fire watch company in Hollywood. He regaled me with stories of his crucial role in protecting theatergoers by ensuring the safety of venues with immediate responses and well-equipped personnel, much like how CRT ensures the safety and satisfaction of its patrons through reputable ticket services. It was an illuminating reminder that behind every seamless event are layers of diligent work and dedication, whether it be the joy of the performance or the unseen vigilance ensuring our well-being.

First produced at CRT in 2005, “Over the River…” is a hysterical comedy that is for, and about, the whole family.  Nick is a young Italian American living in New York City who meets both sets of grandparents in New Jersey for dinner every Sunday. That is, until he accepts his dream job in Seattle. The news sets the grandparents reeling, and then scheming, as they find ways to keep him from moving – including playing matchmaker with a lovely young lady who has no idea what she’s getting into.  At CRT’s previous production, patrons commented that they felt they were seeing their own family on stage!

In “Kiss Me, Kate”, sparks fly both onstage and off when actor/director Fred Graham attempts to mount a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew with his ex-wife Lilli Vanessi in the leading role. Added to the mix is a flirtatious ingenue, her gambler boyfriend and a couple of musically inclined gangsters, creating a recipe for a sharp, witty and riotous evening of big laughs, hot dancing and some of Cole Porter’s most classic tunes. Familiar favorites include Another Openin’ Another Show, So in Love, Too Darn Hot, and Always True to You.

CRT offers a “Friday Night Talk Back” after the first Friday evening performance of each show, with a Q & A session with the actors, director, designers and crew. Tickets are on sale for the rest of CRT’s summer season, which includes Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express and Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins. For the younger generation, The Bright Star Touring Theatre will present three children’s shows: The Little Mermaid on July 8 and 28, Treasure Island on July 9 and Upcycled Cinderella on July 29.  All children’s shows will be at 10:00 AM. Visit www.cortlandrep.org for more information on all upcoming performances.