A Hillbilly Comedy in Kindred

   Looking for something to break up the busy winter weekend? Check out the ninth annual Dinner Theater at the Norman Lutheran Church, three miles northeast of Kindred.

This year’s performance, “Hear Them Hillbilly Wedding Bells,” features three brides and 14 ‘characters’ and their adventures along the way. The unique hillbilly dialect and interesting plot is sure to make for a highly entertaining piece.

All people performing and assisting with the play are members of Norman Lutheran Church. 

The cast was meticulously chosen by director Arlene Haux, who seeks out people who will match the part.

“She draws in people that will fit the character,” said Cathy Merhiy, who is in charge of publicity for the play.

Haux also works to involve as many church members as possible.

“Every year I try to bring in a new person to the cast,” Haux said.

In fact, this play is important in the life of the church.  “It promotes fellowship and we get to know each other better,” said Haux.

And, of course, the comedic nature is a key part of the play as well.

“It’s a good time to relax and have some laughs,” said Merhiy.

Last year, the performances have a large turnout, with a total of 400 people attending over the two days.  But Haux would not advocate moving to a larger venue, but rather increasing the performances at the church.

“The camaraderie of the church basement is so much warmer,” Haux said. “It’s just an atmosphere that I like.”

Because it’s a family friendly play, people can feel free to bring the entire family.

Performances for the dinner theater will take place at 6 p.m. on Feb. 23 and 24, with matinee performances at 2 p.m. each day.

The dinner takes place before the performance and includes sliced pork, baked beans, hash brown hot dish, coleslaw, applesauce and dessert. The matinee performance also includes desert immediately before the performance.

Reservations are encouraged for all performances. To purchase tickets, call 428-3433 and leave a message.