It’s no coincidence that Jefferson College Theatre Department’s two main productions this school year both made their debuts in 1963.
Rebecca Ellison, communications and theater professor at the college, said she chose the productions to honor the college’s 60th anniversary, which is being celebrated all this school year.
First up is “Barefoot in the Park,” with performances beginning this week. The college also will put on a production of “A Case of Libel” beginning in late February 2024.
“I chose ‘Barefoot in the Park’ from 1963 and “A Case of Libel’ from 1964,” said Ellison, who directs the performances.
Show times for “Barefoot in the Park” will be at 10 a.m. today, Oct. 12; 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 13-14; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15. All performances will be held in the Fine Arts Theatre on the Hillsboro campus.
General admission tickets cost $5, while tickets for students and senior citizens cost $2.
Ellison said “Barefoot in the Park,” a Neil Simon play, should appeal to a wide range of people, although youngsters may not understand the show’s nuances.
“It’s the story of a mixed relationship,” she said. “It’s opposites attract, but can that keep a relationship together? It’s a Neil Simon comedy. It’s for anybody who’s been married.
“I’d say it’s for ages high school on up. There’s nothing inappropriate, but it’s written for high school and older audiences.”
The lead actors are Desiree Taylor of Wildwood as the spirited Corie Bratter and Shawn McAfee of High Ridge as Corie’s more uptight husband, Paul Bratter.
Other members of the cast include Cameron Clark, Roy S. Bradford and Victoria Avis, all of De Soto, Olivia Hartwell of Hillsboro and Isaac Steward of Arnold.
Brandon Menke of Wildwood is the stage manager, Joel Speth is the sound technician and Shawn Haddox is the light technician.
Ellison said those who attend “Barefoot in the Park” will be entertained.
“It’s sweet,” she said. “It’s just funny. It is quirky. I think everyone will enjoy it.”
Tickets may be purchased online at jeffcopace.ludus.com or at the box office in the Fine Arts Theatre.
For more information, visit the Jefferson College Theatre Department page on Facebook or go to the college’s website at jeffco.edu.