‘Rumors’ to bring big laughs to Aztec Stage
By David H. Waller
The Albany Mainstreet Playhouse (AMP) is gearing up for its next production, Neil Simon’s classic comedy Rumors, with performances scheduled for February 28, March 1, and March 2 at the Aztec Theater. Known for its sharp wit and fast-paced humor, Rumors explores the unraveling chaos that ensues when a dinner party goes hilariously off the rails.
Director Lorna Ayers, a veteran with nearly 50 productions under her belt since joining AMP in 1999, is at the helm of this latest project. While Rumors has been performed by AMP in the past, Ayers said this year’s production will have a new feel, thanks to a blend of returning actors and fresh faces.
“Andre Raymond and Jeff Davis are returning, but they’re taking on different roles this time,” Ayers said. “It’s interesting to see how they approach new characters, which brings a fresh dynamic to the performance.” Joining them are four first-time AMP performers—Nickie Leveridge, Sydney Key, Colin Read, and Ryan Smith—who Ayers said have brought new energy to the ensemble. The cast also includes Kolby Tinkle, Ragan Riley, and Keren Liming, rounding out a group that has been hard at work preparing for the show.
Rehearsals have been filled with both intense focus and unexpected bursts of laughter. “Even after weeks of practice, we still find ourselves breaking character because the material is just that funny,” Ayers noted. The play’s outlandish situations and rapid dialogue require precise timing, making rehearsal both challenging and rewarding for the cast.
Behind the scenes, AMP relies on a dedicated team to ensure the production runs smoothly. Wade Jones, a fixture in AMP’s technical crew, will oversee audio and lighting, with Jenny Scott assisting on the light and sound board. Backstage support comes from Chanel Hayner and Amy Kelly.
First performed in 1988, Rumors is one of Neil Simon’s most celebrated plays, known for its fast-paced dialogue and comedic misunderstandings. Simon, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, crafted a story filled with escalating confusion as characters attempt to cover up a series of mishaps during a high-society dinner party. AMP has a history of performing Simon’s works, including Barefoot in the Park, God’s Favorite, and The Odd Couple, all of which have resonated with Albany audiences.
Tickets for Rumors are available through the Albany Playhouse website at albanyplayhouse.com/shows. For those who prefer spontaneous plans, tickets can also be purchased at the door, with both cash and credit card options accepted.
