More than four decades ago, the William Carey University Theatre Department decided to try something different. The faculty wanted to combine opportunity for young performers with family entertainment for the community. Carey Dinner Theatre was born and produced its first musical in 1975.
Under the supervision of managing director Obra Quave, Carey Dinner Theatre will celebrate its 44th season this summer at Joe & Virginia Tatum Theatre with two musical comedies:
June 13-29: “Radio Gals”In the 1920s when radio rules the airwaves and small stations thrive, music teacher Hazel C. Hunt receives a radio transmitter as a retirement gift and station WGAL begins broadcasting from her front parlor with an all-girl orchestra, “The Hazelnuts.” Cedar Rapids, Ark., will never be the same as an array of hilarious, toe-tapping songs hits the airwaves.
However, Hazel’s broadcasts have a habit of impinging on other frequencies, like NBC’s, attracting the attention of a federal radio inspector who is intent on shutting down WGAL. It turns out though, he has a fine tenor voice, plays a mean accordion and quickly becomes enchanted by the “Hazelnuts.”
The musical was written by Mike Craver and Mark Hardwick, creators of “Pump Boys and Dinettes” and “Smoke on the Mountain.”
One word review: Zany
July 9-20: “Peace Like a River”The musical comedy sequel to “Peace in the Valley,” Carey Dinner Theatre’s 2011 smash hit, “Peace Like a River” tells the story of Harmony Valley Church and the confusion that reigns there. The show is full of lively gospel music and humor.
It was written by Jim Hesselman and J.R. Stuart, with musical arrangements by Jon Kitchen.
One word review: Heart-warming
Cast and crewOpen auditions for Carey Dinner Theatre are held each spring. College students from a wide area try out and/or interview for performing, technical and box office positions. More than 50 colleges and universities have been represented over the years, including Julliard, Wake Forest, Duke and Eastman School of Music – plus many schools in the Deep South.
This year’s company includes:
- Jordan Bell of Ocean Springs
- Bailey Broome of Gulfport
- Delaney Dukes of Hattiesburg
- Tessa Flesher of Mobile
- Lee Fortner of Port Gibson
- Alberto Genelle of Water Valley
- Clare Kelly of Memphis
- Ryan Kelly of Vicksburg
- Nelson Meredith of Olive Branch
- Gracyn Taylor of Long Beach
In addition to acting in the summer musicals, cast members also serve dinner to guests. By the time a performance begins, each person in the audience has had personal contact with at least one member of the company.
Haley Ray was a member of the Carey Dinner Theatre company: “I love the relationship we build with the audience before the show starts. By interacting with them off stage, it makes the onstage performance more energetic, like we are performing for friends.”
Box office infoThe Carey Dinner Theatre box office opens Monday, June 3. Theatre-goers can call or drop by Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Performances are nightly except Sundays and Mondays. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. The ticket price of $35 includes dinner, show and tax. For reservations, call (601) 318-6221.
