The Tillamook Association for the Performing Arts (TAPA) & Neat Art Studio of Netarts are delighted to bring the 1979 Pulitzer Prize winning drama THE GIN GAME, written by D.L. Coburn, to the stage. Directed by Robert Buckingham and produced by Kristin Johnson, THE GIN GAME is a poignant story of two people who fight loneliness, loss, and each other while playing Gin!
Fonsia Dorsey, portrayed by Doral Vance, is a new resident at a nursing home for senior citizens and happens to meet Weller Martin, portrayed by Rodney Dahl, a loner and longtime resident at the home. Weller decides to help Fonsia work out the newbie jitters by playing his favorite game of gin rummy. Having never played the game before, Weller teachers Fonsia the basics and she instantly has a case of beginners’ luck, which eats away at poor Weller. This builds her confidence and hilariously irritates Weller. He assumed an easy victory, and now tries, and tries again to foil the newbie’s luck to no avail. They discover that they no longer fit in with their friends, families, and fellow residents. This begins a friendship where the two play gin rummy and discuss the good times, bad times, money, society, and the outside world as a way to counter life’s many defeats. THE GIN GAME is both funny and touching.
Performances will be held at The Barn Community Playhouse in Tillamook on June 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, & July 1 2023 at 7:00PM and June 18, 25, & July 2 2023 at 2:00PM. Doors open one half-hour prior to curtain. Tickets are on sale now at tillamooktheater.com or call the TAPA box office at (503) 812-0275 to purchase tickets, ask questions or you need assistance.
As always, opening night is Gala Night where each ticket holder receives one free beverage and complimentary Hors D’oeuvres.
