By Paul Elledge
Now playing on the Players Workshop stage is "Passengers," a comedy/drama by Sam Bobrick. Set in a small midwestern bus stop in the present day, this two-act play contains eight smaller plays or scenes and connects together as the play proceeds.
Ten actors and actresses have taken on nineteen roles to bring the play to life. Special props go to Gene Anderson, Jim Beres, Michelle Huppenbauer, Karen Cahill, Sally Price, and Ben Grochowsky for taking on multiple characters. That is not an easy feat, but they pulled it off. Nicole Pappalardo, Christa Ruther, Herb Price, and Liz Ebbing round out the cast.
The show, directed by Mary Fox and JoJo Arms and produced by Al Fabel, tells the story of people who meet or reconnect at the bus station. For a multitude of reasons, these characters interact and provide different stories. The fact that some actors take on multiple characters can be a bit confusing, and it requires you to pay attention. But if you do, the culminating story and the real heart of the play will shine through.
"I was drawn to this play because it was different from anything I'd ever seen" Fox said. "People come for various reasons to a Midwest bus station and the interactions are funny, poignant, silly, heartbreaking, dramatic, and thought-provoking. The final scene ties it all together with the wisdom of a bag lady." Yeah, watch out for the bag lady - she's a wily one.
Show dates are February 18, 19, 24, 25, and 26 at 7:30 PM, and the 20th and 27th at 2:00 PM. More information can be found on the Players Workshop Facebook page and tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth or at www.playersworkshoptheater.com. Social distancing and masks are still required. "Passengers" is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.