Fandangle rehearsals suspended

By Kathy Thomson

Although the Fandangle cast has a history of working through mud, drought, and thunderstorms, the latest tempest, a world-wide health crisis caused by COVID-19, has put practices on hold for at least the month of March.

“Since group gatherings are limited right now, we will not have rehearsal in March,” artistic director Lorna Ayers text messaged Fandangle participants last Saturday.

As of press time on Tuesday and until further notice, the 2020 Fandangle Sampler and the summer performances of the annual outdoor musical will take take place as scheduled.

“The Sampler has not been postponed or cancelled as of yet,” said artistic director Lorna Ayers. “The Board voted to suspend Sampler rehearsals for the month of March and to reassess the situation after April 3.”

Practice was held last Monday, March 16 before more stringent limitations on the number of people allowed in a group gatherings were implemented.

Ayers and musical director Sandy Abel are considering options that could help the cast prepare for the Sampler during the interim.

“Sandy and I are discussing ways to have the songs available to cast members during the rehearsal suspension so that when rehearsals resume we will be a little further along,” said Ayers. “We will contact the cast when that is made available.”

The Membership Sampler is currently scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 25. The summer shows take place the last two Fridays and Saturdays in June, which will be on June 19, 20, 26, and 27 this year.