Live theatre returns to Bannerman

Posted 7/29/21

After the classic movie, there was the radio version. Theatre on the Road will be presenting “Sunset Boulevard” live, and safely, on Bannerman Island. Five actors playing nine roles will …

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Live theatre returns to Bannerman

Posted

After the classic movie, there was the radio version. Theatre on the Road will be presenting “Sunset Boulevard” live, and safely, on Bannerman Island. Five actors playing nine roles will be costumed as they bring to life the story of Joe Gillis, a Hollywood screenwriter, who enters into a dangerous relationship with Norma Desmond, a faded film star who is seeking to make a triumphant return to the silver screen. Norma’s servant and protector, Max, keeps Joe as a live-in guest at the decaying mansion. Enter Betty, a young scriptwriter, who secretly works with Joe and then falls in love with him.

Hudson Valley actress Nanette Ayers, who was last seen on Bannerman Island in “Arsenic and Old Lace” will be appearing as Norma Desmond. Ron Morehead, an actor who had a lengthy stage career in New York City, plays Joe Gillis. Bannerman regular Jim Keenen assumes the role of Max and Caitlyn Connelly, an accomplished actor living in Ulster County, plays Betty. Sound effects and music will be conducted by Theatre on the Road’s sound engineer, Kenny Drao.

For Theatre on the Road, Frank Marquette will be directing the original LuxTheatre radio play. “Producing and directing Sunset Boulevard is a privilege and I will be bringing something fresh to a script that everyone knows and hardly needs updating or improvement. Our production, although a staged radio play, will include costumes, props and much character from a cast I am very proud of” says Marquette.

This is the fifth year Theatre on the Road will produce a play on Bannerman Island.

Performances take place July 31 and August 1 at 6 p.m.; guests arrive and leave by boat via the dock in Beacon. For tickets and reservations: 845-831-1001 or visit www.bannermancastle.org. Covid regulations are also listed on the website.