Racy comedy lights up MSU-N stage

The Montana Actors' Theatre has chosen to perform a play of a slightly less traditional nature.

"The play is satirical, and it is certainly racy," said actor Donald Mayer. "The content is not as important as the way that it's presented. People will either love it or hate, but they'll be impacted either way."

The play focuses on the eccentricities and dysfunctional relationships of several key figures.

The production is called "Beyond Therapy," and will run Thursday through Saturday nights at the MSU- Northern Theatre. It will also be performed nightly Dec. 12-14.

The play will begin at 8 p.m. on all nights. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for students.

Martin Holt, who directs and performs in the production, said it is directed toward older audiences.

"It is an adult situational comedy," he said. "There's a lot of strong language and sexual discussion. It is definitely not for kids."

The play has a six-member cast.

"The story follows a man and woman who meet through the personal ads," Holt said. "After a horrendous first date, they both see their respective therapists, who are insane in their own way. Plus the man has a live-in lover who complicates things. The play culminates with a satisfying scene in the restaurant where they first met."

Holt plays the male lead as Bruce, an unstable individual who shuns his live-in partner and seeks the affection of Prudence. Prudence is played by Marie Sayers.

The two therapists are Dr. Framingham and Mrs. Wallace. They are played by Sam E. Stewart and Andi Everingham.

Bruce's live-in lover is Bob, played by Donald Mayer.

Ryan Grigg has a role as a slightly psychotic waiter, and Sean Williams will control the light and sound for the production.

Holt said this is his directorial debut.

"It has been a long hard road," he said. "Fortunately, I have been blessed with a wonderful cast. They have done far more than should be expected of any actor."

Holt credited the cast and crew for their effort.

"Sam (Stewart) has been invaluable to the production. He pretty much single-handedy built the set. Donny (Mayer) has also been a tremendous asset. Everyone on the set has worked hard. It is coming together very nicely. We are definitely looking forward to the performance," he said.

Mayer said he has enjoyed working on the play.

"I've really enjoyed the professionalism," he said. "To watch everyone get out of the script and into our characters, it's something to enjoy through the entire show. Plus the fact that it's pretty saucy makes the production a lot of fun."