Theatre closes 50th season with 'Sweet Charity'
The last time Old Courthouse Theatre (OCT) produced this lively, fun, and hip musical, it literally brought the house down. While preparing for the opening of "Sweet Charity" in the historic courthouse — the venue for the theatre at that time — the roof of the courthouse fell in, forcing the organization to look for another venue to house the production.
With this history in the rearview mirror, OCT cautiously (but optimistically) will bring Sweet Charity to its mainstage from April 30 to May 10 at the structurally solid OCT building at 49 Spring St. NW in downtown Concord. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. except 2:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Plays featured in their 50th Golden Season have all been award winners. "Sweet Charity" premiered on Broadway in 1966, where it was nominated for nine Tony Awards, winning a Best Choreography Tony for Bob Fosse. A 1986 revival also won five Tony Awards.
With a book by Neil Simon, the plot revolves around hapless but unflappable Charity Hope Valentine desperately seeking love in New York City in the 1960s. In this exuberant, groovy, hilarious musical comedy, Charity tries again and again to find her dream and make something of herself.
A simple plot about seeking love is bolstered and amplified into true entertainment with bold and spectacular Cy Coleman songs and Fosse-inspired dance numbers: "Big Spender," "If My Friends Could See Me Now," and "Rhythm Of Life."
Seasoned and celebrated director Tom Hollis returns to OCT after 40+ years to lead the production. Collaborating with Hollis is veteran Laurie Klaus as music director with relative newcomer Rachel Peterson tackling the all-important choreography. Nicole Castro and Lucas Devore, both newcomers to the OCT stage, take on the roles of Charity and Oscar, supported by Bradley Smith, Carmen Smith, Alexis Sutorius, Kara Barnette, and an ensemble who play various roles.
Tickets are available at www.octconcord.com or 704-788-2405.
About Old Courthouse Theatre
Old Courthouse Theatre (OCT) is a cornerstone of the Concord, North Carolina, arts scene, celebrating its 50th season of outstanding community-driven performances.
Located in a beautifully restored former church over 100 years old, OCT blends the city's historic charm with vibrant theatrical expression. Each season, the theatre produces five main stage shows — including plays and musicals — two youth productions, and numerous special events.
OCT also supports emerging voices and experimental works through its Black Box Theatre, home to the Living Room Reading Series and resident company, the Post Mortem Players.
Fueled by dedicated volunteers and passionate artists, OCT remains committed to enriching the cultural fabric of Concord and surrounding communities.
Andy rassler is a retired theater director and instructor at Northwest Cabarrus high school. she is the secretary of the OCT Board of directors and a friend to theater and the arts in Cabarrus County.
