Come see Charlie in "Flowers for Algernon'

From left, Ben Zaiger, Megan Sappington and Clarissa Chisham run through a scene while rehearsing for Scene One Theatre's upcoming production of "Flowers for Algernon."
From left, Ben Zaiger, Megan Sappington and Clarissa Chisham run through a scene while rehearsing for Scene One Theatre's upcoming production of "Flowers for Algernon."

The latest production for Scene One Theatre is the drama " Flowers for Algernon."

This is the story of Charlie Gordon, a carefree, loving man who has lived a life of retardation. He is offered the opportunity through an operation to change, and the results make him almost a genius. As Charlie begins his new life, he discovers his surroundings aren't as happy as he remembered, and is forced to discover what happens at the crossroads between intellect and emotion. As the show proceeds, Charlie has to deal with the ghosts from his past.

The play is directed by first-time director Ashley Cook. Production manager is Mary Jo LaCorte and technical director is Grant Lenhardt.

The character Charlie is played by Dan Zaiger. Zaiger is among an 18-member cast that makes up one of the largest casts for Scene One. Zaiger's younger brother Ben also plays a role.

These actors all play secondary characters who appear in Charlie's life as the story moves along.

"This cast is awesome and with all they bring to the table it is like directing friends not actors," Cook said.

Producing this show had unique problems due to a fire in the upstairs hair salon on April 12. Scene One suffered from heavy smoke damage, which required painting, new carpet and furniture.

"We had to overcome a lot to get the show on the stage after the fire," Cook said. " We rehearsed for awhile in the home of John Schwartz and also we need to thank The Little Theatre of Jefferson City for opening their rehearsal hall to us."

The group is back on the Scene One stage now and hopes to when rehearsing with lights and sound everything is in good working order.

"With everything that has happened during the past weeks, my hope is that the audiences will come and truly enjoy the show," Cook said.

At a glance

What: "Flowers for Algernon," presented by Scene One Theatre.

When: 7:30 p.m., May 28-30 and June 4-6

Where: 121 E. High St. in Jefferson City

Tickets: $10 at 573-635-6713, www.sceneonetheatre.com