As the Eunice Players’ Theatre embarks on its 50th season, its historian, Jody Powell, has dug into the history.
“The articles below give us some insight into what the original production was like, and that Jerry Hoffpauir, former managing editor at the Eunice News, and great fan of EPT, thought that the cast “sparkled”, and he called the production a “must see”. If you look closely at the articles below, and the pictures posted of the current cast’s rehearsal last week, you can see that the coffee table used in the first production is the same coffee table this year’s production is using! We certainly hold on to our stock items!” Powell wrote.
The first production of “Daddy’s Dyin’ Who’s Got The Will” by Del Shores,” was directed by Glenn Mentel. Powell said the show was in 1993 when the group was in its 24th season.
The plan this season is bring back a show from previous season.
The cast for the 1993 show included Sylvia George as Sara Lee Turnover; Cathy Dischler as Lurline Turnover Rogers; Debby Graul as Momma Lois Wheelis; Renee Duplechin Conner as Evalita Turnover; Jim Bird as Harmony Rhodes; Wilbur “Tee” Young as Buford “Daddy” Turnover; Matt Jamison as Orville Turnover; and Jody L. Powell as Marlene Turnover.
Powell said the play won Irving Awards for: Best Actress – Debby Graul; Best Supporting Actress – Renee Duplechin; Best Costumes – Doris Stagg and Joan McManus; Best Lighting and Sound – Robyn Miller and Sammy Lamonte; Best Director – Glenn Mentel; and Best Play.
The current production opens March 27 and runs through April 7. Tickets can be purchased at Beaucoup, 114 S. 2nd St., or by calling 337-550-4727 to charge by phone. Visa and MasterCard are accepted for advance sales but not at the door. All seats are $15. Season tickets are also available for purchase at Beaucoup