Local theater goers are in for another treat at Naked Stage with the upcoming reading performance of “The Quality of Life” by Jane Anderson, running Friday, March 30 to Sunday, April 1.
This California play won the 2008 Ovation Award for Best Original Play shortly after it was performed at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles.
“Quality” concerns two couples who are cousins with distinct lifestyles and values (California hippie and Ohio born-again). They help each other overcome tragic circumstances: terminal cancer/euthanasia and the brutal murder of a young daughter.
Despite the tragic circumstances of the characters, “The Quality of Life” is not a dark play. Rather it offers a healing journey as the couples struggle valiantly to overcome pain and loss, acquiring a renewed appreciation and understanding for family and the gifts of life.
Joining the cast of this award-winning play directed by Alicia Madrid at Naked Stage are local standouts Jayme Litttlejohn, Diana Rowland, Ken Yakiwchuk and Damyn Young. These talented actors have accumulated a strong and loyal following over the years for their quality work and dedication to theater.
Littlejohn says local audiences responded most to her one-woman show, particularly her role as a dog in “Sylvia,” first performed at Bravo Theatre.
“Apparently I make a cute dog,” Littlejohn says. “I am honestly not sure how to respond when I get barked at around town!”
In “Quality,” Littlejohn partners with fellow actor Yakiwchuk as the Ohio born-again couple.
Yakiwchuk has appeared in many roles but is most proud of the part he played in “Visiting Mr. Green” at Bravo. “I cherish the opportunity and trust I was given, as well as the knowledge and experience I have gained,” he says.
Always in much demand, Rowland has often appeared at Lakeside Little Theatre and was seen most recently in this season’s popular “Calendar Girls.”
“My best theatrer performance is always, perhaps, my next one … another opportunity to get it right, which I never do to my satisfaction. I’m always leaping off a cliff hoping my parachute –classes, workshops, training – will open,” she says.
Also a local favorite, Young has performed in several productions since joining the theater community. He appeared earlier this season at Lakeside Little Theatre in the comedy “Ripcord” and will partner with Rowland as the California hippie couple in “Quality.”
For tickets, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Cost is 100 pesos and free parking is available in the lot of the Baptist Church behind the theater.