Local director Bradley Charles is presenting the comedic play On a First Name Basis by Norm Foster as a stage reading at Theatre NorthWest on Friday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m.
Two local actors, Julia Mackey and Rob Zeigler, are starring in the production.
"On a First Name Basis is perfectly suited to a stage reading," Charles said. "It's a play about two people sitting in a room together talking."
It's all about the conversation they are having, he added.
"Norm Foster is a legendary Canadian playwright," Charles said. "The script is incredible. Julia Mackey and Rob Zeigler are two very talented local actors who are doing such a great job and so I think everyone who's coming to the show Friday night is going to have an absolutely great time. It's like a mystery slash comedy slash love story and it's just a great play."
On a First Name Basis tells the story of a successful but cantankerous novelist who discovers that while his maid of 28 years knows everything about him, he knows nothing about her.
This play lends itself nicely to a stage reading because there's not that much action taking place, more of the focus remains on the conversation.
"The play is just so well written and I cast it immediately in my head with Julia and Rob," Charles said. "It's come together really seamlessly."
Charles said the play is relatable to the audience because the two characters have come to a point in their lives where they're feeling rather isolated.
"I think everyone in the world can relate to that right now," Charles said. "It's about them slowly opening up and sharing secrets with each other and connecting and for me in creating this that has really been impactful and I think it will be the same for the audience."
So far all the rehearsals have been through Zoom - so it's been virtually done in isolation.
It's been translating really well already on Zoom so Charles said he has every confidence in the professional actors to bring their characters to life on stage.
Doors open at 6:15 p.m., the reading starts at 7 p.m. Patrons will be seated by an usher upon arrival to ensure proper social distancing.
For more information including safety protocols put in place at the theatre and for tickets call 250-563-6969, ext. 304 or visit www.theatrenorthwest.com.
