NORTHUMBERLAND—Summer audiences looking for laughs will find them at “Drinking Habits” by Tom Smith, playing August 14-30 at The Westmoreland Players Theatre, 16217 Richmond Road, Callao.
Performances are slated at 7:30 p.m. August 14, 15, 21, 22 and 28; and 3 p.m. August 16, 23, 29 and 30. Tickets are $30 for adults and $17 for students. Purchase tickets at 529-9345, or westmorelandplayers.org/tickets.
“Drinking Habits” is a rollicking farce set in a quiet convent where Sister Philamena and Sister Augusta have been secretly making wine for years to keep their struggling order financially afloat, reported Marcia Peters. Their carefully guarded operation is threatened when two reporters, Paul and Sally, arrive to investigate rumors of unusual activity.
The arrival of a novice, Sister Mary Catherine, sparks suspicion that she is a spy sent by Rome to uncover wrongdoing. The convent becomes a hotbed of mistaken identities, hidden agendas and increasingly elaborate deceptions.
What follows is a whirlwind of comic misunderstandings involving a bewildered Mother Superior, a goodhearted priest, a devoted groundskeeper and a long-buried secret. Doors slam, disguises multiply, romances rekindle and accusations fly as everyone struggles to keep up with the confusion. Filled with witty dialogue, fast-paced action, and heartwarming revelations, “Drinking Habits” proves the truth has a funny way of coming to light—especially when a few bottles of wine are involved, said Peters.
Regular audiences will recognize most of the cast, with a couple of new faces. Debby Evans and Sharon Stone play Sister Augusta and Sister Philomena, the conspiring vintners. Sam Johnson makes his stage debut as George, the convent’s handyman with a hidden history. Tess Dumais-Calvert returns to the Westmoreland Players Stage for the first time in 18 years as the Mother Superior, who is oblivious to the winemaking activities of her flock. Christopher Brown and Amanda Schimmoler return as Paul and Sally, the ambitious reporters who have—for now, at least—put aside their romance to pursue a scoop. Sally Sharp plays Sister Mary Catherine and John Pitman portrays Father Chenille, the well-intentioned priest caught in the chaos.
“Drinking Habits” is directed by Michelle Ayala and Matt Johnson. “This convent comedy will deliver a full pour of laughs,” said Ayala. Johnson added: “‘Drinking Habits’ is a sumptuous blend of classic farce elements—secret identities, rapid entrances and exits, mistaken assumptions and romantic reunions,” said Johnson.
“Drinking Habits” is produced by special arrangement with Playscripts Inc.
