Come and catch "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof'

From left, Laura Morris, Dick Dalton, Branden Bise and Margaret Graham act out their roles as Big Mama, Big Daddy, Brick and Maggie during a rehearsal Tuesday evening for the upcoming Capital City Players production of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," which will premier on April 10.
From left, Laura Morris, Dick Dalton, Branden Bise and Margaret Graham act out their roles as Big Mama, Big Daddy, Brick and Maggie during a rehearsal Tuesday evening for the upcoming Capital City Players production of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," which will premier on April 10.

The classic Tennessee Williams drama about a dysfunctional Southern family is the latest production for Capital City Players.

This is the story of the family patriarch, Big Daddy, played by Dick Dalton. He is having health issues and the family is keeping the worst news from him.

There are tensions and rivalries between the siblings and marital issues between all couples.

The main conflict is between Maggie "The Cat" played by Margaret Graham and her husband Brick, played by Branden Bise. This tension is complicated by Brick's drinking and his relationship with Big Daddy.

More dysfunction insues between Sister Woman (Mae) played by Liz Brown and Brother Man played by Steve Kretzer. Their three children are a source of sorrow for Maggie because she has not borne a child.

Remaining cast members include: Frank Bise, Cos Acosta, Kacey Ligon and the three children played by Elli Schnieders, Cora Winkelman and Joshua Kofahl.

Director Ken Thompson said Williams is one of his favorite playwrights, and whenever he can direct a play written by Williams he jumps at the chance.

"This is family turmoil at its best. There is a little of everything from lies to deceit, greed and jealously, health issues and marital issues," Thompson said.

He is keeping the play in the 1950s as written by Williams because this is the turning point for the South as far as large plantations are concerned. The South is turning from agriculture to industry.

The set is abstract and not the ordinary box set. There is suggestion in the set directions about what is going on in the play. This is enhanced by area lighting.

Key individuals backstage are Kathleen Lavery, Jessica Hawk and Kacey Ligon who also plays a role.

When asked about how he felt directing the play Thompson said, "If you get a good cast you will be a good director. I have given them some blocking directions and told them about my vision of the show and then let them go. They have done a very good job."

At a glance

What: "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" presented by Capital City Players.

Where: Shikles Auditorium in Jefferson City.

When: April 10-11 and 16-19.

Tickets: $35 includes buffet catered by Argyle Catering, call 573-681-9012 or access capitalcityplayers.com.