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Times-shamrock communiTy newspapers 149 Penn Avenue Scranton, PA 18503 Phone: (570) 207-3473 Fax: (570) 207-3448 E-mail: triborobanner@ timesshamrock.com
September 17, 2015
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Difficult Subjects
ON THE INSIDE The latest happenings in our area Page 2
BANNER
Benefit theatrical production tackles serious issues by Tucker Hottes
SPECIAL TO THE TRIBORO BANNER
Weighty issues like mental illness and suicide are difficult to discuss — but the Misfit Players and Act Out Theatre Group aim to bring audiences a frank portrayal of one family’s struggles in NEPA’s first production of the Tony Awardwinning rock musical “Next to Normal” Friday through Sunday, Sept. 25-27 and Oct. 2-4 at the Act Out Theatre in Taylor, with tickets $20 at the door or $15 for students or advance purchases. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays. Director Heidi Germaine Schnappauf said the spark for production came two years ago during a discussion about mental illness with Alice Y. Lyons, a longtime friend and a lead actress in the production. “There is such a negative connotation, people can be afraid to speak up,” said Schnappauf. “Even though there are suicide prevention lines and resources, we have people we know who have lost their lives. It was our hope to produce this show someday, and maybe somebody will call the hotline, or reach out to a friend.” Schnappauf and Lyons history with the Misfit Players is a long one. “I started the Misfit Players when I was 15,” said Schnappauf. “At the time, I had so many talented friends in all facets of theater — not only actors and singers, but lighting people, musicians, stage crew, painting, building, all of it. “I turned it into a senior project for school. We made an effort with that show to use the proceeds — I didn’t want to keep any of the money — to give to charity.” After moving out of the area to attend New York University and follow her career, Schnappauf said Lyons continued the tradition at home.
“Alice kept the Misfit Players going,” said Schnappauf. “She went on to become a high school teacher at Coughlin, and she kept the group alive.” Recently, Schnappauf suffered an injury and was unable to return to work during therapy. It was then that the “Next to Normal” production became more than just a project to help organize from afar. “I was going nuts, I couldn’t work to the extent I wanted to,” she said. “I ended up taking over as director of the show, and immersed myself in the play.” After discussing options for the charity donations, they decided on the Children’s Service Center in Wilkes-Barre, after learning the organization was building an outpatient unit and seeking additional funding. “It was a perfect opportunity to pair the arts with the community, especially since they have a specific project they’re working toward,” said Schnappauf. “We know where the money is going and we want to help make a difference.” From left, seated: Willie Demyan and Ericka Law. Schnappauf said she hopes the show’s fo- Standing: Dane Bower, Ben Stelz and Alice Y. Lyons. cus on an average family dealing with tough subjects will help people realize the importhere, and the other roles were open. We had a tance of mental health awareness. huge turnout, especially for the younger roles. “More people should have access to healthy There were so many incredibly talented people outlets, and know that it’s completely normal, and who came out — it was nearly impossible for us you’re not a freak. You’re not going to get tied up to try to cast.” in a straitjacket if you’re having weird thoughts or Donations to the show are still being acare overwhelmed with life or depressed,” she said. cepted, and community members are encouraged Open casting was held for all roles except the to donate directly to Children’s Service Center. mother of the family, which went to Lyons. Schnappauf said “Next to Normal” will touch “We felt it was a passion project and the show people who have personally experienced mental wouldn’t have come about without Alice, and it’s health issues or have friends and loved ones who more than just ‘I want to be a lead in a play,’ ” have dealt with issues of their own. said Schnappauf. “It was ‘I want to do this because “It’s a very heartbreaking, but very real story,” it means so much to me in my life.’ We started she said.
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