Mainstreet Playhouse ready to open Rumors
By David H. Waller
The Albany Mainstreet Playhouse will open its production of Neil Simon’s Rumors this weekend at the Aztec Theater, marking the first time in two decades the fast-paced comedy has been performed on the local stage.
Directed by Lorna Ayers, Rumors follows the chaos of a high-society dinner party gone hilariously off the rails. AMP last performed the play in 2005 under the direction of Jennifer Boudreau, and this year’s production brings a new energy with a mix of returning actors and fresh faces.
“This is Hell Week, so we’re good and ready,” Ayers said, referencing the final stretch of rehearsals. “The veterans know what to expect, while rookies bring a fresh nervous energy to the set.”
A Cast Blending
Experience and New
Talent
The cast features AMP veterans Andre Raymond and Jeff Davis, both of whom were part of the 2005 production but are taking on different roles this time. They are joined by first-time AMP performers Nickie Leveridge, Sydney Key, Colin Read, and Ryan Smith, with additional cast members Kolby Tinkle, Ragan Riley, and Keren Liming rounding out the ensemble.
Ayers said the mix of experienced actors and newcomers has brought an exciting dynamic to rehearsals. “I think the rookies look at the veterans and think, ‘I need to be like that.’ Meanwhile, the veterans are just like, ‘Whatever, we’ve got this,’” she said with a laugh.
Rehearsals have been filled with plenty of challenges, but also non-stop laughter. “Even after weeks of practice, we still find ourselves breaking character because the material is just that funny,” Ayers said. The play’s sharp dialogue and quick comedic timing have kept the cast on their toes throughout the process.
A Set Built from Old and New
Behind the scenes, the set—built entirely by Tony and Paul Hensley—was completed in just two weeks, incorporating a mix of repurposed elements from past productions and new construction. While some pieces, like walls and frames, were reused from previous shows, other sections were built from scratch to fit the vision for this production.
“It’s like a dang house,” Ayers said of the elaborate set, which was nearly complete earlier this week. “We’re just putting up the final touches—hanging artwork, setting plants, and dressing it out.”
Ticket Sales Picking Up as Opening Night Approaches
With opening night just days away, ticket sales are on the rise. While local interest has been strong, promotions have helped extend the show’s reach beyond Albany, with tickets purchased from as far away as Fredericksburg and Buffalo Gap.
Marketing efforts have included targeted Facebook ads, geo-fencing, postcards, and radio spots on local stations. Ayers is optimistic about turnout. “People are last-minute, so we’re seeing an uptick in sales now,” she said. Tickets will also be available at the door for those who decide to attend on the night of the show.
Performances are scheduled for February 28, March 1, and March 2 at the Aztec Theater. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the Albany Playhouse website or at the door on the night of the show.
