Local playwright debuts with Stained Glass Theatre

Nora Vegiard and Dennis Fitzpatrick rehearse for "Behind the Pulpit."
Nora Vegiard and Dennis Fitzpatrick rehearse for "Behind the Pulpit."

Written by local playwright Angie Fadness, Stained Glass Theatre's upcoming production of "Behind the Pulpit" will bring thought-provoking lines and poignant situations to the stage.

After her mother's passing, Kat Cremer became estranged from God, her father and their small hometown church. She eventually becomes a successful reality television producer. When she learns of the church's search for a pastor, she takes the opportunity to wreak havoc by staging a reality show to "help" them find a suitable man for the job.

With a cast of 12, director Doug Leith is excited to bring this play to life. He said he enjoys how relatable the play is.

"There are some very topical things: the passing of a parent, estrangement, miscarriage. These are unfortunate but poignant; a few tears will be met with many laughs," Leith said.

Nora Vegiard portrays Kat Cremer, estranged daughter and television producer bent on destroying the church. She is joined by Ray Wachter III, who plays David Skyler, a parishioner opposed to Kat's show, and Elise Shomaker as Fiona Underwood, a single mom who befriends Kat.

"It's great, having this be the first production I am directing, that I am able to call Angie (Fadness)," Leith explained. "Any questions I have about interpretation or what was meant here or there I am able to talk to her about."

The other plus to having a local playwright is the ability to afford a recording of the production. Normally, the cost of the rights to the play prevents the company from sparing the cost of a recording as well.

"This allows us to create something the players will be able to look back on and enjoy," Leith said.

"Behind the Pulpit" will be performed June 1-3 and 8-10 at 830 E. High St. Thursday and Friday show times are at 7:30 p.m., with Saturday matinees at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $9, except for opening night, which will be $7. Family prices are available. Tickets can be purchased by calling 573-634-5313 or by visiting sgtmidmo.org.