A new cast of actor-pianists is bringing a Peterborough Players favorite back to the stage at 55 Hadley Road in Peterborogh Aug. 4 to 14.
Ted Dykstra’s and Richard Greenblatt’s “2 Pianos 4 Hands” returns after eight years, featuring the new team of Jefferson McDonald and Matthew McGloin in the roles of Ted and Richard, under the direction of Players’ Artistic Director Tom Frey. Frey is also the U.S. resident director for the Canadian play and has previously performed in the show over 600 times
Two actors, two pianos and numerous characters take the stage as 15 years of learning the art of piano-playing unfolds. From classical to pop to jazz, the play provides the chance for the two performers to give their all in a 120-minute performance. Along the journey the actor-pianists portray a range of characters embellished with the music of Bach, Beethoven, Billy Joel, Jerry Lee Lewis and more.
As children, Ted and Richard endure the judging eyes of teachers, adjudicators and parents. As “friendly” competitors nearing their teens, they face off at various festivals. As young adults, their eyes open to new ideas and influences. And as they mature, they become more aware of the gap between the very good and the great — the plight of all those with training and talent and the will to be a professional musician,athlete, actor or dancer. “2 Pianos 4 Hands” showcases the humor that comes with dedicating oneself to a dream, and the sense of loss in eventually learning to let go of it.
“2 Pianos 4 Hands is one of those shows that stays with you long after the curtain comes down,” stated Frey. “It has had a profound effect on me personally, and I’ve watched audiences across the country and Canada be charmed, laugh until crying and reconcile with that small part of each of us that deals with our personal dreams. This particular cast is incredible, and I’m dazzled on a daily basis by their extraordinary talents.”
The actors have done the show together previously at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. McGloin appears as Richard, having opened the Players’ summer season as the Emcee in “Cabaret.” New company member Jefferson McDonald makes his Players debut in the role of Richard. Scenic design is by Steve Lucas; costume design and coordination is by Chloe Ross; lighting and sound design is by Kevin Frazier; props design is by Emily Allinson. Julia Perez and Vanessa C. Hart are Equity Stage Management.
There will be a talkback with members of the cast and creative team after the show Sunday, Aug. 7, at 4 p.m. On Aug. 13, Blackfire Farm will be onsite with their wood-fired pizzas, available for purchase between 5 and 7 p.m. before curtain. Pay-what-you-can tickets for 2 will be available on Friday, Aug. 5, to anyone who needs assistance accessing tickets to Players’ productions. Patrons can attend the Aug. 5 performance, with a guest, for whatever they feel they can pay. Pay-what-you-can tickets must be reserved ahead of time through the box office at 603-924-7585.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13, and 4 p.m. Aug. 7 and 14. Single tickets are $47. Barn Door Flex Passes are available throughout the season. Tickets can be purchased at peterboroughplayers.org or by calling the box office at 603-924-7585.