By Josh Lapping
Greenbrier Valley Theatre (GVT) will look to transport audiences back to the 1950s and ‘60s with their upcoming production of Forever Plaid. Featuring songs such as “Crazy ‘Bout Ya Baby,” “Papa Loves to Mambo,” “Three Coins in the Fountain,” and many others, this show will have audience members reminiscing of a simpler time. Forever Plaid, written by Stuart Ross, tells the story of four men known as the Plaids who are ready to perform their final concert together in an upbeat nostalgia trip that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
The show stars GVT newcomers Adolpho Blaire, JP Qualters, and Troy D. Wallace as three of the four plaids. Joining them to complete the quartet is Matthew Krob (I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.) Donald Laney will return to Greenbrier Valley Theatre to direct and choreograph the production. Laney, having worked with the WV Dance Company for many years, brings extensive experience and is looking to make GVT’s production unique.
“I’m looking forward to creating a community of actors and musicians onstage to tell a story,” said Laney. “Our version of the story, bringing their talents to the space and focusing on the music, characters, and relationships.”
The production will feature scenic design completed by Christopher “Kit” Mayer, costume design by Jenna Fawn Brown, and lighting design by E. Tonry Lathroum. Sound design is completed by Abigail Coppock, with prop design by Dani Rust. Richard Crowell serves as Production Manager, Elizabeth Salisch as Production Stage Manager, and will be assisted by Mallory Topel.
Now in its 56th season, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, is a mainstay and theatre destination located in Lewisburg, WV. The arts organization has been further recognized as a “West Virginia Jewel of the Hills,” awarded the Living the Dream Service Organization Honor Roll by The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, and is a multi-year recipient of Non-Profit Business of the Year. GVT boasts a robust series of year-round programing and educational offers with the goal to enlighten, enrich, and enliven throughout the region.
Forever Plaid opens at GVT on June 16 and runs through the 25th. Saturday, June 17 does include a 2:30 matinee. Tickets are $32 for general seating, $29 for senior citizens age 60 and above, and $20 for students. For more information on tickets, shows, and the organization’s history, visit the theatre’s website: www.gvtheatre.org or call the box office at 304-645-3838.
