Barn Theater Review: Fruitcakes! A recipe with lots of fruit, but also lots of nuts – West Central Tribune

Willmar’s Barn Theater presents plenty of fruitcake and “nut” fun in the play “Fruitcakes” by Julian Wiles.

McCord’s Ferry, a small southern town, is the setting for the seasonal production, which revolves around the town’s characters and their eccentricities while preparing for the Christmas season. Events include, but are not limited to, Christmas lighting ceremonies, Christmas pageants and fruitcake baking.

All are played by a cast of actors led by Sonja Madsen in her directorial debut.

Madsen emphasized his experience and expertise with his casting and crew selections. Its cast conveys the production’s message to the audience: it produces moments of laughter and fun while leaving the eyes a little moist and melting the heart.

The festive theater and decor is simple but impactful. He and the character Mack Morgan, played by Bill Wright, set the tone for a charming country Christmas atmosphere. Watching an actor’s creative woodwork before the play began was a subtle and nice touch.

As the play begins, it doesn’t take long to realize Wright’s talent. His portrayal of Mack Morgan, calm and the voice of reason, is superb. His co-manager is Jamie, played by Neil Kadlec. Kadlec portrays his character perfectly and the two produce engaging chemistry on stage.

More chemistry is shown when sisters Miss Alice, played by Denise Deaner, and Miss Sara, played by Michelle Gralish, take the stage. Both women are entertaining with their humorous and dysfunctional banter while living in a divided house. Gralish’s comedic instincts stand out, especially with angels and pageants.

We meet many other interesting and eccentric characters who populate the town, including Beebo Dantzler, played by Alex Vasquez, and his wife, Betty Jane, played by Hope Onnen. Beebo lights up the stage with his “Space Odyssey” light show while Betty Jane anxiously guides her flock of actors for the Christmas show.

And then there’s the town’s Shakespearean outdoorsman and fisherman, Skeeter, played by Holden Stafford. You don’t have to be a genius to notice Stafford’s genius talent.

Melissa Wallace’s character, Mattie Sue, lights up the stage with her quirky and cheerful side and Ben Watson, played by Rick Morgan, although appearing briefly, brings it home.

The troupe of promising young actors produces the element of cohesion that brings this production to fruition. These actors will be among the best at the Barn Theater in a New York minute.

A theater production wouldn’t be complete without the support team behind the scenes.

Congratulations to Chloe Jensen, Matt Onnen, Jan Buzzeo, Patrick Gilmore, Cassidy Albrecht, Peder Erickson and Trevor Eckhoff.

This reviewer encourages everyone to make time for the Barn Theater’s Christmas production. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle and seasonal world outside and come inside to enjoy the seasonal world of Fruitcakes!

There are four performances remaining at 7 p.m. from December 12 to 14 and at 2 p.m. on December 15.