Nobody said being the perfect host would be easy.
Pam Cochrane thinks she’s got everything under control, but she’s holding onto a thin illusion.
There are too many bouquets for the number of vases on hand, a guest turns up her nose at one of Pam’s canapés, and the group breaks out into a game of charades when the hostess’s back is turned.
Cocktails at Pam’s, a quirky Canadian comedy penned by Stewart Lemoine, is the Langley Players’ fall production.
It’s opening this week and the first two performances (Oct. 16 and 17) have already sold out – suggesting audiences are ready for the fall theatre season to begin.
The play takes a closer look at the cocktail party, mining social conundrums such as whether to eat dinner before or after the party and how to endure meaningless conversations with pompous guests.
Stir in an anxious hostess who wants everything to be perfect, and you’ve got an evening that’s set a collision course with
comedy.
A constellation of actors from across the Fraser Valley are in the cast of Cocktails at Pam’s, including Cloverdale’s Andy Wood (Playing Dr. Max Powell), and Surrey’s Elyse Raible (Denise Powell).
The rest hail from as far away as Abbotsford, Coquitlam and Pitt Meadows, as well as Maple Ridge and Langley, home to director Williams and Producer Mary Renvall.
“The play is an ensemble piece with 11 characters, which gives 11 actors the chance to explore and define their uniquely quirky personalities,” Director Dave Williams said.
Set in 1965, a time of change, the set features mid-century decor, designed by the Langley Players’ award-winning team.
Cocktails at Pam’s runs Thursdays to Sundays, Oct. 16 to Nov. 15, at the Langley Playhouse, 4307 200 Street, Brookswood. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, and Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m.
For reservations call 604-534-7469 or email reservations@langleyplayers.com, or buy tickets online at www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/133005.
Visit www.LangleyPlayers.com for more information. Tickets are $15.
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