DC Players to Perform "Bleacher Bums"

A cast has been chosen and is in rehearsal for the DC Players production of “Bleacher Bums,” a hilarious comedy about baseball and the undying loyalty of rabid fans for their team. The show is set in the right field bleachers of Wrigley Field, the home turf of the Chicago Cubs. Performances are slated for Thursday – Saturday, March 19, 20, and 21, at 8 p.m. in Schomburg Auditorium on the campus of Defiance College.

The cast includes a collection of slightly loony folks that you might meet in the cheap seats of any ball park. Melody King, who comes to the game primarily to get a tan—and who is not afraid to bare her skin—will be played by Kaitlin Switzer, Defiance. Greg, a young man blind from birth and not the brightest bulb in the pack, will be played by Shorty Williamson, Lima. Zig, a more typical older fan—a cigar chomping, beer-drinking, gambler—will be played by Steve Hinkle, Rockford. His wife, Rose, who shows up to try to control Zig’s gambling and who bets the opposite side to balance his wagers, will be played by Jerika Hennes, Washington Court House.

Decker, played by Mark Vandevender, Westlake, is a successful businessman. Richie, played by Jared James, North Baltimore, is a young man who doesn’t quite understand the intricacies of placing bets and who is manipulated by the older fans. Marvin, a shrewd gambler who is not afraid to bet against the Cubbies—understandably not a bad posture—will be played by Don Garwood, Willshire. Adam Schlett, Sandusky, will portray the Cheerleader, an over-enthusiastic fellow who circulates throughout the park attempting to pump up the crowd and who has researched the opposing players looking for dirt. The Kid, who happens into the bleacher area, will be played by Max Lydum, Defiance. The Announcer is played by Tim Kurtz, Maumee.

The play takes place during a game against the archrival St. Louis Cardinals and the entire games unfolds, including the National Anthem, the seventh inning stretch, and, of course,  “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”
The show is being directed by Ken Neuenschwander. Seating is by general admission, $8 adults and $6 students. Tickets may be reserved for specific performances by calling 419-783-2462 or by e-mail: cgilgenbach@defiance.edu.

Defiance College is an independent, liberal arts institution in Northwest Ohio offering more than 40 undergraduate majors as well as graduate programs in education and business. Defiance College has received national recognition for its educational experience of engagement. U. S. News & World Report ranks Defiance in the top tier of comprehensive colleges in the Midwest. The college website is www.defiance.edu.

February 3, 2009