BY MARY KAY SWEIKAR
OAKWOOD — For the first time, the Danville Red Mask Players will partner with Sleepy Creek Vineyards in its production of the play “Talley’s Folly” — a Valentine’s weekend fundraiser.
The play, which is a Pulitzer Prize-winning romantic comedy by Lanford Wilson, features only two characters, played by the husband-and-wife team Matt and Charlie Hester. It will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Sleepy Creek, located 3 miles south of Oakwood.
“We are very excited to welcome the Red Mask Players here,” said Joe Taylor, co-owner of Sleepy Creek. “I know this is only the beginning of a long-term relationship with this theater company. The play is just perfect for our small venue.”
“Talley’s Folly” deals with the courtship of young Sally Talley and her Jewish suitor, Matt Friedman, in 1944 Missouri. Matt pleads his love to Sally, who is a daughter of a prominent family.
Matt refuses to accept Sally’s rebuffs, but he fears her family would never approve their marriage. Charming and indomitable, Matt gradually overcomes her defenses; he tells his innermost secrets to his loved one and, in return, learns hers.
“This show is the perfect accompaniment to a romantic evening at Sleepy Creek Vineyards,” Taylor said. “Come early and have an indoor picnic.”
A selection of wines and special Valentine desserts, as well as other snacks, will be available for purchase. Guests also may bring their own food to enjoy before the show begins.
Linda Bolton, president of Red Mask, said, “Our Christmas fundraiser show was incredibly successful, so we decided to have another one to help Red Mask stay alive and active this year.
“In this Valentine’s weekend production we are doing what we do best, and that is to present live theater,” Bolton added. “Sleepy Creek Vineyards is such a lovely setting, and we look forward to doing more things like this in the future.”
“Talley’s Folly” is a special fundraiser, so it is not included in the regular Red Mask season membership.
FOR TICKETS
Tickets are $15 per person, payable in advance to Sleepy Creek Vineyards. To make reservations, call Sleepy Creek at 733-0330 or e-mail info@sleepycreekvineyards.com.
