PUHI — With a break in the performing arts calendar and Valentine’s Day a few days prior, Kaua‘i Community Players saw the opportunity to host a party Saturday at the Puhi Theatrical Warehouse. And for those who couldn’t get out
PUHI — With a break in the performing arts calendar and Valentine’s Day a few days prior, Kaua‘i Community Players saw the opportunity to host a party Saturday at the Puhi Theatrical Warehouse.
And for those who couldn’t get out on Thursday, or just wanted an excuse to go out on Saturday, it was perfect.
“This is our date,” said Melissa McFerrin-Warrack of the Kaua‘i County Farm Bureau, who was attending the gala with her husband, James. “I had to work Valentine’s Day, Grandma is watching the little one, so we’re on a date.”
Members of the KCP spared no effort in transforming the multi-faceted facility into a perfect setting for the “Love the One You’re With” theme that reflected Valentine’s Day.
Normally reserved for play preparation, casting calls, and other pre-requisites of a locally-produced theater event, the front area of the Puhi facility was replaced with food prepared by KCP chefs and punctuated with a “You Stir Me Up” bar for liquid refreshment.
“I’m retired,” said Dottie Bekeart, who was collecting tickets at the door. “I get to do what I like to do, and I like doing this.”
The atmosphere was stirred by the guitar performance of Jeff Elkins, as well as a Kissing Booth where patrons were photographed by party goers using their cell phones.
“I normally carry my party camera, but tonight, I forgot it,” said local photographer Carol Ann Davis.
Another of the dressing rooms was transformed into a fortune telling booth, where people could have their cards read, or perhaps, summon a spirit riding the nightly tradewinds that were rapping at the front door.
With DJ Daniel Degracia spinning away the night, the KCP announced that the 2013 season will begin with the “Dixie Swim Club,” a poignant comedy by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. It will run for three weekends, starting March 15.
Directed by Jo Grande, auditions for this production have already been done and rehearsing is underway.
Auditions for “Working,” a musical by Stephen Schwartz and Nina Faso scheduled for May, will take place March 5 and 9.
The KCP’s mission is to encourage, promote and conduct educational, cultural, literary, and dramatic pursuits for the general welfare of, and enjoyment by, the community.
Visit www.kauaicommunityplayers.org for more information on the auditions for “Working,” or for more information on the KCP.
• Dennis Fujimoto, photographer and staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 253) or dfujimoto@ thegardenisland.com.
