FRANKLIN — The Franklin Stage Company, Delaware County’s admission-free, professional theater, will present David Lindsay-Abaire’s award-winning comedy “Trouble in Mind,” from July 5 to 21, at Chapel Hall in Franklin.
According to a media release, “Trouble in Mind,” a play for nine actors, tells the story of Wiletta Mayer, a middle-aged actress, a professional actress at the top of her game, who has nevertheless spent her career playing stereotypes — maids, mammies, and other menials — and finally has her chance to play a big Broadway role. But when difficult truths spill out of the script into the rehearsal room, the play takes a different turn. “It’s moving, illuminating, and surprisingly funny,” FSC’s Artistic Director Patricia Buckley said in the release and added that “it’s also a play about work, race, and what it means to be an ally.”
Written in 1955, the play was produced Off Broadway and slated to go to Broadway the same year, but because the playwright refused to make changes demanded by the producers, the play was shelved and only given its Broadway debut in 2021. If the play had been produced as scheduled, it would have been the first Broadway play by an African-American woman. Because of the delay, “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry garnered that title.
The cast of Franklin Stage Company’s production will be led by MaConnia Chesser in the role of Wiletta; both NYC and locally-based professional actors will round out the cast. “It’s a privilege and an honor to direct this wonderful piece,” said Buckley “I’m awed by the cast we’ve been able to assemble to bring this masterpiece to our audience.” The play will also feature Adara Alston as associate director and cast member.
“Trouble in Mind” will run through July 21. Franklin Stage Company’s summer season will then continue through Aug. 25, at Chapel Hall at 25 Institute St. in Franklin.
All evening shows have a curtain time of 7:30 p.m. “Trouble in Mind” will also have Saturday matinees at 3 p.m., and Sunday shows at 5 p.m. There is general seating. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $25 per person.
Visit www.franklinstagecompany.org for more information and reservations.