Northwest Arkansas Community College Theatre is bringing an emotional and intimate musical to the stage this spring called “The Mad Ones” by Kait Kerrigan and Bree Lowdermilk.
The musical is based on an idea by Zach Altman and Bree Lowdermilk and directed by Stephanie Freeman, NWACC theater professor and theater program coordinator, with musical direction by Marc Turner, communication coordinator. Others who are part of the production team include Jackson Collins, stage manager; Avery Redmond, prop designer, and Rebecca Harrold, pianist.
The cast includes theatre students London Omo (Sam), Solomon Nicolas (Adam), Nadia Salinas (Kelly), and community artist Lynn Manning (Beverly). Julie Wilson, assistant director, commended the cast and their ability to bring the musical to life. “Each performer brings their own pizzaz to these characters and relationships,” she said.
“The Mad Ones” (formally titled “The Unauthorized Autobiography of Samantha Brown”) explores the coming-of-age journey of 18-year-old protagonist Samantha Brown. Caught between the expectations of her mother and the lingering influence of her adventurous late best friend, Samantha must decide whether to follow a safe path or embrace a life of risk and freedom. Audiences can also expect a compelling musical score—one that sold over 15,000 pieces of digital sheet music in 2019. “It’s a challenging score, but fortunately, the cast is very talented,” said Turner, the music director.
With its heartfelt themes and emotional moments, viewers may want to come prepared. “You may want to bring some tissues,” Wilson noted.
NWACC Theatre students, stage crew, and staff have been continuously rehearsing in anticipation of their upcoming show date. During previous rehearsals, Wilson said, “It has been amazing working with this group, and audience members will not be disappointed.”
Performances will run April 23-25 at 7 p.m., with a matinee on April 26 at 2 p.m. The show will be held in White Auditorium, located in Burns Hall on the Bentonville campus. The production is recommended for audiences ages 13 and up due to brief moments of adult language and situations. Tickets will be available at the door: $15 for the general public and $10 for NWACC students, faculty, and staff. For further information regarding the production of “The Mad Ones,” call 479-619-2295 or email [email protected]
